Your young person might have a specific career path in mind or a strong desire to continue studying one of their favorite subjects from school. To gain a deeper understanding of their interests, engage in an open and supportive conversation about their passions and career aspirations.

Discuss the subjects they excel in and enjoy the most, and explore how these interests might translate into potential career options or fields of study. This dialogue can help them clarify their goals and make informed decisions about their future education and career paths.

Encourage them to think about what excites them, what skills they want to develop, and how these factors can then align with various degree programs and career opportunities.

All undergraduate degrees in the UK must be applied for through UCAS. UCAS provides an excellent search tool that helps students find and shortlist undergraduate courses across the UK. Each listing includes a course summary, application details, fees, and entry requirements.

Entry requirements for similar courses can vary by institution, so it's crucial to compare them. Additionally, reviewing the specific modules offered in similar courses is important, as one university's modules may be more appealing or better suited to the student's interests than another.

Once your young person has decided on the courses they are interested in, the next step is to look at the universities offering those courses. Help them choose a university that fits their needs by considering the following factors:

1. Location: Is the university close to home, or will your young person need to move away? Discuss their preference for staying local versus experiencing a new environment.
2. University Rankings: Evaluate the academic reputation of universities by looking at rankings. Key indicators to consider include student satisfaction, graduate outcomes, and the quality of teaching.
3. Campus Environment: Explore what the campus is like, including facilities and amenities. Investigate the support services available, such as academic assistance, mental health resources, and career counseling.
4. Student Feedback: Talk to current students about their experiences to get firsthand insights and answers to any questions you might have.

Additionally, check the dates for university open days. Attending these events can provide a valuable opportunity to tour the campus, meet faculty and students, and determine if your young person can envision themselves studying there for the next three to four years.

Depending on which course and university or college they've chosen, a young person will have a UCAS application deadline which they'll need to meet. It's important they check the date for their chosen courses so they leave themselves plenty of time to complete their application.

Some courses such as Nursing, Dentistry and Medicine will have different closing dates to other courses on UCAS, so make sure your young person is aware of earlier deadlines.

At this stage, it's beneficial to explore the various career opportunities associated with their chosen course. As part of this research, your young person should examine the career services offered by the university and their dedication to helping graduates secure employment after completing their studies.

Consider investigating the university's alumni network and the initiatives in place to enhance employability skills. Additionally, reading student success stories can provide valuable insights into how the university supports its graduates in achieving their career goals.