Still unsure after visiting universities? Here’s how to decide 

A student guide to choosing the right university after open days

I had visited multiple universities and was unsure how to choose which university to go to when I first started looking. I felt nervous about deciding between universities as it felt like such an important decision for my future career and social life, but after choosing, and now attending Brighton uni, I couldn’t be happier with my choice.

I’m Ruby and I’m a first year student at The University of Brighton. This blog is about top tips on choosing a university and how to know what’s right for you. The aim of my blog is to help other prospective students decide between universities like I did, so they can feel happy with their choice.

Think about what matters most to you

List your priorities, course, city, and campus feel

What matters most is different for everyone, so it’s important to figure out your priorities to help you choose which university suits you best. My top priorities for uni were good accreditation for my course, a lively city filled with activities, good nightlife, and a very friendly student community with high-quality facilities, and I personally believe that Brighton has all of these!

Creating a priority list of what’s most important helps you know what to look for and what questions to ask at open days or applicant days. This makes it easier to decide which uni is right for you.

Find out what student life is like in Brighton

Compare course content and teaching styles

Check modules, placements and assessments

When choosing a university course, it’s important to know how you learn best so you can compare this with the teaching style to see if it would be a good fit.

I looked at:

• The content in each module
• Whether my course had a placement year and employability support.
• The types of assessment at university (coursework, exams, projects)

The course content at Brighton was perfect for me because it offered optional modules to match my interests. Attending a lecture at an Open Day helped reassure me that the course would be suitable and engaging.

Picture your daily life at university

Could you see yourself living there?

When thinking about how to choose a university location, the setting and campus vibe can really influence your decision.

For me, being by the beach was incredible! It’s fun, free and great for mental health. The campus atmosphere at Brighton felt upbeat and welcoming, and everyone I met at the Open Day, from student helpers to lecturers, was so positive about life here. That made my decision much easier.

Revisit your open day notes

Sometimes the small details help you choose

Open day reflections really helped me narrow down my choices when choosing between universities. Looking back at notes and photos from the day helped me to remember my favourite parts of Brighton.

For example, I took pictures around campus on Open Day which reminded me of the many positive factors of Brighton, such as Brighton student accommodation being close by and the beautiful beach.

Sometimes the smaller details help you to decide, so it’s important to make notes as you visit each uni as this will help remind you when you look back to make your decision.

“Visiting Brighton really helped me imagine myself here. Walking around campus, visiting accommodation, exploring the city and strolling along the beach made me realise this was the perfect place for me.”

Talk it through with people you trust

Chat to parents, friends and Brighton ambassadors

Talking about university choices really helps to clarify your thoughts. I spoke to student ambassadors on Open Day which was helpful as they shared positive insight into student life at Brighton.

Speaking to them made me feel more confident that I would enjoy my time here. Family and friends can also provide you comfort as some may have been to uni and so will be able to provide insight and share their top tips.

Discussing decision making with friends was valuable to me as my friends all went to separate unis and so it was fun to hear about their different open day experiences.

How I knew Brighton was right for me

After visiting a few uni Open Days and comparing between, I knew Brighton was where I’d be the happiest. University open days can change your mind, so if you are still feeling unsure about how to decide between universities, I’d recommend exploring the city in person as it allows you to experience the atmosphere. Perhaps spend a weekend away with your parents or friends walking around Brighton and seeing if you can picture yourself here.

As a first year now, I am so pleased that I decided to come to Brighton. There is such a friendly and inclusive community, both within the university and in the city.

Ready to make your decision?

Explore Brighton courses and student life

If you’re still deciding, discover more about courses at Brighton and see what feels right for you.