University Open Days...

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All universities organise open days for 6th formers and other prospective undergraduates. Generally these are held between June and October for courses starting the following year. They are a great way for both students and parents to get a feel for the institution quickly. You will get the chance to meet the academic staff and discuss the study options and will also have an opportunity to meet current students and view the Universities facilities and accommodation.

Parents and other family members are normally encouraged to attend; so make a day of it.

Most students are amazed when they realise the size of an average university. For those used to school with a few hundred pupils it’s an eye opener to look around at the facilities of a university accommodating 35,000 students! Many universities are actually on two or more sites, sometimes even in different towns or cities. Yes, they are vast, so make sure to check the university website and if required (or recommended) by the University, pre-register your visit.

In addition to the main undergraduate open days, most subject faculties will organise visits, tours and departmental open days. These are designed for those with a firm idea about the course they intend to take. Most Medical Schools for example, will run independent open days for those hoping to study medicine or dentistry.

As well as open days and formal visits a number of universities (such as Edinburgh & Newcastle) offer informal student led, or self-guided tours of their campus. These often run through much of the year and details will be advertised on their websites.

If you can’t make any of the organised events for any reason but still want to have a look around it is normally possible to arrange a personal visit. Again for more information on personal visits consult the university website or give the subject admissions officer a call.