Abbey DLD Group of Colleges | Manchester

University preparation

Expert Help at Every Stage

Our UCAS programme for sixth-formers covers two years, and we know from experience that this is the best way to ensure that students find the right university and the right course for them.

The choices made during these two years will shape the future, so getting it right is our priority. Each student is allocated a personal tutor who is involved at every stage of the process. We also offer our students a wider network of staff with expertise in a range of specific academic fields. Many of our staff hold postgraduate degrees at Masters or PhD level; some have taught in universities and some have been involved in business or law. Our psychology tutors can offer sound advice on specific test procedures and we share knowledge so that every student gains from the team resource.

Abbey College has a strong track record for providing guidance to students wishing to apply for highly competitive courses such as medicine, veterinary science, dentistry, engineering, pharmacy and law.

Preparing for university at Abbey College begins early in the Lower Sixth, the most important year for laying the foundations of success.

• The programme for all Lower Sixth students includes:
• the Centigrade test to identify the range of possible subject choices
• extensive discussions with personal tutors to guide students every step of the way
• expertise on hand rather than outside the college
• attendance of at least one Open Day accompanied by staff (we expect students to arrange a variety of Open Days for themselves in addition to this)
• registering online with UCAS and writing personal statements

In Upper Sixth, we complete UCAS applications and a reference is written by the personal tutor who knows the student well.

One Year students need tailor-made advice to maximize their success. Doing A Levels in just one academic year is hard enough and it is important for the UCAS process to be completed as quickly as possible. Students are re-registered with UCAS immediately upon enrolment in August/September and we encourage students to have completed their applications by the end of September. As most are applying for competitive courses this gives a window of opportunity for any changes to be made before the deadline date in mid October.

All students are offered:

• Advice on all university entrance tests including BMAT, GMAT, LNAT and UK CAT
• Interview preparation skills
• Mock interview practice with a panel of experts including university admissions staff and business people
• Advice on dealing with offers and any rejections
• Support on coping with and getting the most out of university life
• Action Planning for Results Day