What is university like?
Wondering what it’s really like to study at university? From taster days to student experiences and sample lectures, find out how you can get a flavour of university life – and if it’s the right next step for you.
Information and advice pages
What is university like?
Wondering what it’s really like to study at university? From taster days to student experiences and sample lectures, find out how you can get a flavour of university life – and if it’s the right next step for you.
International events
It's a good idea to talk about your higher education options in person. Go to a course provider open day to explore the campus and get insights from staff and students – or take a virtual tour. We also recommend you go to UK events or one of the British Council events around the world. You'll find lots of helpful advice, and can ask any questions you may have.
Where to find us next
Find us at these virtual and face-to-face events to explore how our data-driven insights can help solve higher education challenges.
How does distance learning work?
Discover how distance learning works if you’re studying a degree remotely, from applying to teaching and exams. Plus, see what support is available from tutors and other students.
Provider engagements
Our provider sessions enable you to get involved with live conversations and provide your feedback. If you have missed recent sessions, you can find the playbacks available on this page.
University events and open days
Discover more information about upcoming open days and uni events, how to use them to your advantage, and what you need to prepare.
Attend a virtual open day
If you can't visit them in person, you might be able to attend a virtual open day at a university or college.
Events and summer schools to prepare students for higher education
Organising events in your school or college is a great way to help students make smart choices about higher education (HE) or find alternative routes. There’s a wealth of activities outside school too.
Virtual tours
Here's a list of virtual tours and videos from universities and colleges, so you can see what it's like on campus and what facilities are available.
Virtual Work Experiences
Led by industry experts from the world's leading employers, Virtual Work Experiences give you a taste of what a career would look like through interactive, on-demand programmes.
Exhibiting as a university or college
We run the go-to events for young people researching their post-school/college options. They're your chance to showcase your university or college and everything it has to offer to the exact audience you need to reach.
Top tips for UCAS Discovery
It's time to get ready to explore a world of possibilities and for the live event! Whether you know what you want to do next, or you’re looking for some inspiration, this is your chance to get loads of research done and get the help you need to start your application.
Applying for a finance and accounting apprenticeship
Looking to start a career in finance and accounting? While academic routes are often the first thought when entering the field, there is no better way to gain hands-on experience in the sector than embarking on an apprenticeship and working while you learn. In the guide below, we'll help you on the first stage of your journey in applying for an apprenticeship, what to expect at the interview stage, and some advice and guidance from live employers in the space.
Applying for a legal apprenticeship
Do you want to start a legal career among experienced professionals? Legal apprenticeships, including the 6-year solicitor apprenticeship, are the perfect way to gain practical skills and real-world context on the route to becoming a qualified solicitor. In this guide, we walk you through applying for one type of legal apprenticeship, the solicitor apprenticeship - which includes a Law Degree and all the professional examinations you need to qualify - with top tips from employers about what they look for in an apprentice.
Clearing guide for international students
International students, including EU and other overseas students, can use Clearing in the same way UK students can.
Comparing undergraduate courses and unis
With so many courses, and many similar ones available, it's important that you find out more about the course and the university or college before you start to shortlist your options.
Discover
Unsure of what to do with your life or what your next steps are? Use our information on careers, apprenticeships and university to explore what routes are available and which one is right for you.
First-generation students
Students who do not have parents or carers who have attended university themselves sometimes find it useful to have additional information and help when making their decisions and applying to higher education.