Choosing a university might feel like one of the biggest decisions of your life so far — and honestly, it is. Your university choice, its location, and its overall environment can all influence your academic journey, social life, and even your future career.
While it may feel overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach and some solid research, picking a university can become a truly exciting opportunity to shape your future.
There are over 160 universities in the UK alone — and more than 100 are featured in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023. But rankings aren’t everything. You’ll want to consider factors like your course, budget, career plans, lifestyle, and even where you’ll feel happiest living for the next few years.
Let’s walk through the 9 most important things to think about when choosing a university that fits you.
📚 1. The Course: Your Foundation
Your course is the heart of your university experience — so make sure it truly fits your goals and interests. Even if you know what you want to study, course content and delivery can vary significantly between universities.
Here are a few questions to ask:
- Does the course specialise in your area of interest?
- Are there flexible modules or optional pathways?
- What kind of assessments are used — exams, essays, or practical projects?
- What qualifications or accreditations will you earn?
- Are the lecturers and tutors experts in your field?
- Is there strong research or practical experience involved?
- Do past graduates from this course land jobs quickly?
Your course should match your career ambitions and your learning style. So dig deep into course descriptions, talk to staff at open days, or connect with current students.
🌍 2. University Rankings (But Take Them with a Pinch of Salt)
Rankings can give you a general idea of a university’s reputation — but don’t treat them as the only measure of quality.
Look at rankings specific to your subject. A university ranked lower overall might actually have a top-tier program in your chosen field.
Some reliable ranking sources include:
- QS World University Rankings
- Times Higher Education
- The Complete University Guide (UK)
- Academic Ranking of World Universities
- National Student Survey (UK) — for student satisfaction insights
Rankings matter, especially to employers — but pair them with your own research into what really matters to you.
🧑🎓 3. Student Experience: What’s Life Really Like?
Numbers and rankings only tell part of the story. To get a real feel for university life, connect with students and see what they say about their experiences.
Here’s how:
- Join student forums or follow student-run social media pages
- Check if the student union has a website or “alternative prospectus”
- Look for blogs or YouTube videos made by current students
- Send polite messages or emails to ask questions — most are happy to help
You can also check out our student life blog, which shares real stories and tips on balancing academics, social life, and wellbeing.
💸 4. Costs: Know What You’re Committing To
Studying at university isn’t cheap — so it’s crucial to understand what your education will cost you, and how you’ll manage it.
Key financial factors include:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation (on-campus vs off-campus)
- Food, transport, study materials, and entertainment
- Part-time job availability in the area
- Extra equipment or fieldwork expenses, depending on your course
Some universities discourage working during term time, but you might have opportunities during holidays or summer breaks. The bottom line? Plan your finances before making your final decision.
📍 5. Location: Big City, Small Town, or Close to Home?
Where you study can change your whole university experience. Do you want to move far from home, or stay nearby? Would you prefer the buzz of a city like London, or the community vibe of a smaller town?
Things to consider:
- Cost of living in the area
- Distance from home (and how often you want to visit)
- Local job and internship opportunities
- Whether the region aligns with your future career plans
Remember, you’re not just choosing a school — you’re choosing a lifestyle for the next few years.
🌳 6. The Environment: Campus Life vs City Life
The layout and feel of a university can influence how you live and learn. A campus-based university often feels like a close-knit student community, while city-based universities may offer more independence and variety.
Explore:
- Campus layout (Google Earth and YouTube are your friends!)
- Student housing options
- Student union, chill-out areas, or green spaces
- Accessibility and transport options
Where you study impacts how you feel — and staying motivated and comfortable can make a huge difference in your success.
🏛️ 7. Facilities: Beyond the Lecture Hall
Make sure the university supports both your academic and personal needs.
Look for:
- Updated labs, libraries, and tech resources
- Career services and internship support
- On-campus healthcare, gyms, cafés, and hangout spots
- Student societies and sports clubs that match your interests
You’re there to learn — but also to grow socially, emotionally, and personally. The right facilities can make your experience more fulfilling.
👀 8. Open Days: See It For Yourself
Visiting a university in person (or virtually) is the best way to know if it’s the right fit. During open days, you can tour the campus, sit in on sample lectures, meet staff and students, and ask questions.
Websites like:
- UCAS.com
- FindOpenDays.com
- loughreaschoolandoffice.com
…can help you find dates and register.
Can’t attend in person? Many universities offer virtual tours and online Q&A sessions with students and professors.
📝 9. Try It First — Summer Programmes
Not ready to commit yet? Get a taste of university life through summer schools like those offered by Immerse Education. You’ll live and study at prestigious campuses, experience academic life firsthand, and even make international friends before enrolling full-time.
It’s a fun and low-pressure way to get clarity on your future path — and boost your CV too.
✅ Final Thoughts: Take Your Time, Trust Your Gut
Yes — there’s a lot to think about. But don’t rush. This is your journey, and you deserve to feel confident in your choice.
Take your time to compare courses, research universities, and explore what each place has to offer. The right university for you is the one that fits your goals, your personality, and your vision for the future — not just the one that tops the rankings.
And when you find it? You’ll know.
💡 Ready to explore more?
At Immerse Education, we offer immersive summer programs for students aged 13–18 at world-renowned universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and more. If you want to test-drive university life before committing, this is a perfect way to start your journey.