Applying to universities via the UCAS form system can seem scary. However, by following a few simple procedures it can be made quite simple. Before you apply to your chosen universities:

• You should find out everything there is to know about each University offering the courses you are interested in. You can do this by visiting their website or maybe talking to friends that have already been there.

• Try and go to one of the UCAS education conventions that will be going on within your chosen universities. They will probably have either staff or students at exhibition stands who will be willing to answer any questions you might have about your life on campus.

• If you are feeling stuck and confused about university entrance it might be an idea to speak to a careers advisor who should be able to guide you in your decision. You should be able to find a careers advisor either at your school or at Connexions.

• Talking to your friends and family about their views of the university can also help, especially if they have been to one of the open days.

Filling out the UCAS Application Form

Once you feel you have covered these areas you now need to fill out the UCAS application form. There are 2 different ways of applying through UCAS:

1. On the web. They have a secure online form.

2. Through EAS which is an electronic application that is done on a CD.

Guarantee that it is done well

Whichever way you choose to do it, make sure that you do it carefully. Take care with grammar, spelling, codes that need to be filled in, all of these must be done correctly. If you fill out a UCAS application form incorrectly it can cause a lot of complications later on. Make sure you go back and check it; better still get someone else to do it for you!

Struggling with your personal statement? Why not view our advice on writing a strong personal statement