Dos & Dont’s of Applying to University

Graphics and Words by Caitlin Chuah

Here you sit, staring at your screen, researching universities and beginning your applications. Never thought high school would fly by so fast huh? I felt the same too when I finished high school. However, university is a place of great memories and experiences, and it all begins with the application process. To guide you through the process, here are some dos and don’ts of applying to university.

DO conduct sufficient research

Once you decide on a course, make sure that you research as many options as possible. Just like how universities accept students based on a set of requirements, you too must create a set of requirements that the university must fulfil for you. Take into consideration of your budget, qualifications and area of study as you begin to narrow down your options. Additionally, it never hurts to have a few extra options on hand if your first few choices do not work out.

DO provide accurate information

Review ALL your documents and application forms before submitting them. From grammar to spelling mistakes to basic information such as your address, set some time aside to ensure that all information you have presented is accurate. This prevents any unnecessary confusion and stress in the future.

DO ask for help if you need it

The university application process can undoubtedly be confusing. If you ever require help during the process, do reach out to us at JM for guidance. As an education consultant agency, we assist students throughout the entire process, from compiling and submitting documents all the way to accommodation arrangement…all free-of-charge!

DON’T miss deadlines

Deadlines can determine whether you enter the university of your dreams, qualify for scholarships and get into certain programmes. Missing application deadlines means missing great study opportunities and wasting precious time. Thus, get started early. Send in your applications a few weeks before the deadline, which will give you more than enough time if any complications arise. For those who have yet to receive their official exam results, you may apply with your trial exam results first. This will allow you to begin the process earlier and give you sufficient time to deal with any last-minute issues.

DON’T start late

As mentioned above, missing deadlines will lead to nothing good. Therefore, it is vital that you DON’T start late. Begin conducting your research while you are in high school, then once you graduate, you will already have a list of courses and universities to pick from. Once you have narrowed down your options, all you need to do is follow the application process step-by-step and apply to your chosen few institutions. For those studying abroad, ensure that you have all the necessary documents, e.g. passport, visa, personal statement etcetera, before heading out.

DON’T let your parents do all the work

University is one of the first steps into adulthood. Don’t defeat its purpose by letting your parents do all the work. Admission counsellors hear from an abundance of anxious parents every single year, which makes them wonder why the students aren’t getting in touch themselves. Take charge of your life and handle the process yourself. However, there is no shame in needing help and asking for it. As long as you make the effort to do it yourself, that’s what counts.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve been prepped on everything you should and should not do, you are ready to begin applying to the institutions of your dreams. Contact us if you require assistance or have any questions whatsoever regarding your tertiary education. With that said, university is going to be some of the best years of your life. Be excited about this journey you are about to embark on and we wish you nothing but an abundance of joy and success!