Your grades are arguably the most important aspect of your application. If you’re struggling with one of your school subjects, perhaps consider private tutoring or ask your teachers if you can attend some additional revision classes to help you secure the best grades possible. Begin your revision earlier and try to make healthy lifestyle choices so that you are better able to concentrate and absorb information. If you are tired and restless, you will struggle with your revision.

Although courses across different universities will share similarities, they will also be different in many ways so it’s a good idea to do some research and tailor your applications to suit each of the commonalities. This will make your application relevant across the board to give you a better chance of securing offers from all of the universities you apply for, rather than standing out to just one. You could speak to the admissions departments directly and ask course related questions if there is something of particular interest to you.

Of course, you’ll be very busy studying for your exams, but it’s important to try and find time to pursue your hobbies outside of your obligatory schoolwork. In doing so, you will be able to demonstrate to universities that you are able to manage your time effectively and juggle multiple commitments, while furthering your skills and potentially even building up additional UCAS points. If you don’t have a particular hobby in mind, perhaps consider volunteering in the community.

Gaining an award will show universities that you are willing to take on new challenges and work hard, which sets you apart. The Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE) is a good option, because it allows you to demonstrate commitment and determination over a longer period of time.

If you’re currently studying A Levels, you will be learning a lot about the subjects that interest you, but extra reading will benefit you further. It’s really important to universities that their applicants can prove that they are truly engaged in the subject, particularly if you want to stand out amongst the crowd. You can reference your extra reading within your application and explain why it has helped you become better at your chosen subject.

Your teachers will be able to help you with this, but your personal statement is a great opportunity to show that you deserve a place at the universities of your choice. There is a 4,000-character limit, including punctuation and spaces and it should be a total of 47 lines. Within your statement, you should explain why you’re keen to attend university and what makes you a suitable candidate, as well as the relevant skills you have acquired over the years.

If you’ve made it this far, you’ve already done a lot of hard work and have the right mindset to succeed. With that said, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t believe in yourself and have confidence in your abilities.