How to avoid getting rejected from all your choices

Getting a rejection from a university, even if it wasn’t your top choice is a disappointing experience and something you want to try and avoid. It can really drain your confidence and this is something you don’t need in the run up to revision, exams, and possible university interviews.

But how exactly do you avoid getting five, dreaded rejection letters?

Be realistic

You need to be realistic about what universities are looking for in a potential student and whether your academic abilities and personal attributes match their requirements.

Having ambition is great but there’s no point applying to a university asking for AAA if you’re only predicted to get BBB. You’ll be setting yourself up for rejection before you’ve even started.

Think carefully about universities and courses

Again, be realistic about what you want from a university and a degree course. Don’t choose a university just because it’s at the top of the league tables or you’ve been fooled by their marketing ploys.

Read the course descriptions carefully, not all English courses are the same, and you don’t want to send in a personal statement going on about a topic your chosen university doesn’t even teach.

Do take a risk

Although you don’t want to be overly ambitious you don’t want to put yourself down either. Choose one university that is a higher risk choice – for example, a university that is asking for a grade higher than you’re predicted.

That way if you do better than you expect to you’ve got the option to go to a more prestigious university.

Get relevant work experience

For vocational courses such as teaching or healthcare subjects you’re going to need to have relevant work experience to be successful. Without evidence of your practical, hands-on knowledge your application will go straight in the “no” pile.

Have a perfect personal statement

For popular courses students often have exactly the same grades and in this situation it’s a good personal statement that will seal the deal.

You can go to our Personal Statements section for top tips.