University applications: tips from students

Applying to university is a big moment and it’s important to get it right. At Brighton we recognise that one size doesn’t fit all, and students here are from all sorts of backgrounds. For a detailed look at the application process, check out our Application Timeline.

Below, 10 of our students talk about their experience of applying to University of Brighton – from writing personal statements to open days, flexible grades and admissions, summer schools, clearing and interviews.

The application process began at college – I had received my A-Level results, written a personal statement through the UCAS platform and applied to freshers’ fairs. Being able to attend a taster session provided added peace of mind, and confirmed that I was making a decision I wouldn’t regret.
Kristian Floate is studying music business and media.

I am an international student and when I researched University of Brighton, I read that it is one of the best universities for business studies. Then I sent an email and communicated with the university to check all the necessary documents I would need to come and study in UK. The application process was very smooth, and everything went according to plan.
Anxhela Shaholli is studying accounting and finance.

I applied to university while studying a Level 3 BTEC, and this is a more common route than you may think so do not panic if you did not study A-levels. I visited five different universities at open days and took part in a summer school during the summer holidays after Year 12. Summer schools are a great way to have a better insight into what uni life is really like.
Amy Davis is studying sport and exercise science.

In my A-Levels I got just under the UCAS points I needed to come to Brighton, and so during a gap year I wrote an EPQ. This was helpful not only for the entry criteria, but also to stay focused and disciplined in my studying, and to include in my personal statement to explain that I was really passionate about the subject I was applying for.
Ellie Saunders is studying media studies.

As an international applicant, the process was slightly different from the other students, however, through the support of the university’s staff, it didn’t take long. The admission officers and student support guides were available and very prompt with their replies. I had to attach my school marksheet, certificates plus an English language proficiency test to complete my application. I attended a variety of events online before coming to the university. Those were open days, accommodation tours and finance guides, all of them very informative and useful.
Ketan Srivastva is studying physical education.

I applied directly through early Clearing in July, the year after I sat my A-levels, so I had my results. I’d visited Brighton in the past, so I knew it was somewhere I’d like to be. My A-level results didn’t match the standard offer for my course, but I had just enough UCAS points to scrape through, and I also had relevant work experience. I wrote a personal statement to the School of Pharmacy Admissions Tutor directly. He emailed me back promptly, I did a short maths test and phone interview, and got offered a place the next day!
Eva Martin is studying pharmacy.

I hadn’t visited the university prior to my arrival, but had attended many of the online tours, virtual open days, and course introduction sessions via Teams and Unibuddy. However, my application process was easy, I had applied with my IGCSEs, A-Levels, IELTS and a portfolio though the student view website and soon after that I got my acceptance!
Tia Botros is studying interior architecture.

I was unable to visit before applying for university during Covid times. However, I know many people who completed their initial teacher training at Brighton and they couldn’t speak highly enough of it. Prior to starting university, I had a level 3 and level 4 qualification in supporting children in schools as well as a lot of CPD training. I was working in school for many years before embarking on this next step to become a fully qualified teacher. I was interviewed by a headteacher at one of Brighton’s partnership schools. The interview wasn’t nearly as scary as I was expecting, they really helped me feel at ease and reassured me not to be nervous.
Lisa Coles is studying primary education.

Even though the application process was stressful, I benefited greatly from talking to the university prior to applying to university. I got the sense of where I was going and I learnt about the amazing support system Brighton University has in place.
Undine Evalde is studying architecture.

I decided to study for an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) at sixth form. This qualification was made up of a 5000 word essay and 15-minute presentation. I found this gave me an insight into the type of assessments I would have at university. It proved to me that I had the skills to do well at university!
Seniz Mustafa is studying ecology and conservation.