Where should I study?
There are many universities for you to choose spread all over the country. There's plenty of choice, so this is another area for you to research.
Remember, this is a decision that you will have to live with for at least the next three years, so it really is worth putting in the time and effort to make sure you make the right choice. We've put together some information about the type of things you should be considering when making decisions on where you would like to study:-
Do you want to move away from home?
Yes
The next step is to consider how far away you are thinking of going. Will you want go home regularly? If you will, then you will need to think about the travelling costs involved.
What accommodation is available?
Practically all universities offer halls of residence for their students. You may find that moving into halls is the best option, especially if you are moving away from home into a strange town and surroundings. In halls you will find many students who are in exactly the same position as yourself.
However, there are a number of aspects you need to look at carefully as each institution will offer slightly different terms:
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Are the halls fully catered or self catered?
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Is it shared or single rooms?
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Will you have to share bathrooms or are there en-suite facilities?
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Do the fees cover bills?
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What terms does the contract tie you to?
This list is not exhaustive and it's very important you investigate all necessary areas.
Halls of residence are not the only option available to you in terms of accommodation. Many universities offer help in finding student accommodation in local surroundings. Again, there's a lot to consider if you decide to take this option. Bear in mind that if you're moving to the area your knowledge will be limited in terms of nearby amenities, etc. Find out the terms of the lease, whether bills are inclusive and the length of the agreement.
If you would like to find out about the accommodation offered by Southampton Solent University go to our accommodation| information.
No - I will be living at home
If you have decided that you would prefer to live at home while you study then you will need to research the universities that are local to you. Which of these offers the course or courses you are interested in? Another important factor to consider is how you will travel to university. Will you drive? If so, what are the parking arrangements like? If you will be using public transport , how good are the transport links to get there?
If you would like to read about the experiences of some of our students who live at home while they study with us, see What is it like to live at home while you study?|
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Is it the right course for you?
Certain courses, course content or modes of study are only available at certain universities. Specific grade requirements can also differ. Therefore, you need to ask yourself whether the course is exactly the right one for you? What marks do you expect to get? Do they meet the requirements of your chosen university?
More information about courses and those available at Southampton Solent University can be found at What can I study?|
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What are the facilities like?
You will also want to bear in mind the facilities the institution offers. Facilities such as: library, IT, teachers per student ratio, tutor support programmes, sport and recreation, disability support and student welfare.
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Where is the university located?
You will need to think about where you want to study. Do you want the 'hustle and bustle' of big city life or would a quieter rural location be better suited to you?
You will also have to consider the location of the university in its surroundings. Some universities are in self-contained campuses, while others may be part of the general community. You will need to determine whether there is adequate accessibility; are there strong transport links?
If you would like to find out more about what Southampton has to offer, use the link to go to our living in the city| section.
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What is the social life like?
OK, so you all know that you need to work hard to gain a university qualification, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy yourself in the process! Check out what your prospective university has to offer in terms of pubs, clubs, restaurants, cinemas, theatres, special events, etc.
What can Southampton Solent University offer?
Our living in the city| section will provide you with information about Southampton's social scene. It is also worth looking at our Students' Union| website to gain an idea of what can be offered socially on our campus.
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Useful website
Open Days| - one of the best ways to find out what a university is like is simply to go and visit it. You will be able to get a flavour of the institution and have an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. This website tells you about open days all over the country.
Please Note: Southampton Solent University is not responsible for the contents of external websites
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