There are always more applicants than places at the top Universities, particularly for the more popular subjects. So how can you ensure that you give yourself the best fighting chance? Here, we give you a guide to the top ten mistakes that people make when applying to University:

1. Relying on Rumours
Don’t rely on anything that someone has said to you about the University, of something that you have read online. If you have questions, ring the University themselves. If possible, you should also try and arrange a visit to the campus before starting your application so that you can get a feel for the place and whether it is the right University for you.

2. Trying to fit into a pre-conceived mould
Be yourself – don’t try and fit into the stereotype as they will be able to see through you. There is no ‘perfect’ student so do not try and mimic anyone.

3. Focusing on just your academic achievements
Academic achievements are, of course, of vital importance, however Universities want to see a well-rounded individual who has other passions. Remember to briefly mention your interests and how they relate to what you want to study.

4. Not explaining weaknesses
If you have a poor grade, explain yourself. You could have a legitimate reason for that grade, so let them know why otherwise the admissions board will not know why you did badly. Most people have occasional chinks in their armour – as long as you have a satisfactory explanation (no excuses!), you should be fine.

5. Having too many people look at your personal statement
Everyone has opinions and will probably find something for you to change. However, they may not understand your underlying motivations. Chopping and changing your statement too much can also lead to something which does not read smoothly and well. Find one or two people who understand you well to read over your application and offer advice.

6. Not planning recommendations
If you need references or recommendations, plan. People will need time to write the reference, so give them plenty of time to do it and don’t put it off until the last minute. It helps if they know more about you – taking them out for a coffee and showing them your plans, and your previous work can help. Talk over your goals and motivations with them.

7. Rushing the application
Give yourself plenty of time to prepare and fill in the application. After you have filled in the application, leave it a few days and then re-read whatever you have written. Seeing your writing with fresh eyes can help refine your writing. Rushed applications often don’t read well and may have mistakes in them – neither of which will give you the edge over other students.

8. Be realistic
Be realistic about what you say and write – exaggeration will not go down well. If you present yourself as an all-round super-human, eyebrows will be raised and you will lose credibility. Universities aren’t after anyone ‘perfect’ – they want people who are self-aware.

9. Not preparing for the admissions interview
Some universities interview potential candidates so that they get a better feel for them. It is vital to prepare for these interviews. If you can, do some mock interviews with friends and family. Also, think of a few questions you can ask the interviewer as these show you prepared in advance.

10. Canned responses
If you do get an interview, don’t just answer questions in the way that you think the interviewers want to hear. Think carefully about the questions and try to answer truthfully – do not give them canned repsonses as they probably hear these every day. An original response will give you much better credibility and a much better chance.

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