University Guidance
Our aim is to help Stoics identify the right courses and the right institutions for them as individuals and then secure acceptance at them.
This page describes how we do this and provides guidance on the process of university choice and on particular points.
The tutor is the Stoic's key advisor. At key moments the tutor will encourage the Stoic to take a longer view. Choice of GCSE subjects is the first of these moments, when the Stoic has to decide which subjects engage him or her the most and which make best use of existing talent. Choice of AS subjects is the next, when Stoics should be matching existing strengths and future ambitions, and laying a foundation for higher education. The focus on university plans begins in earnest in the Lower Sixth. Stoics interested in going to an American university need to get started on the process rather earlier than others, but for all Stoics our Higher Education Conference in the Lent term is the time for looking seriously at the available options. Tutors at this stage are encouraging Stoics to research the options and talk about what suits them best, and to arrive at some provisional decisions in the Summer term of the Lower Sixth. University applications are completed and submitted in the Michaelmas term of the Lower Sixth, and during the Lent term those applying to University should be getting offers which will give them a target to aim at for their summer exams.
The tutor is backed by a specialist team: our UCAS Applications Tutor, Head of Careers, and Head of Oxbridge are all ready to advise on specialist aspects of entrance to UK universities; the Head of Music advises on entry to Conservatoires and Musical Academies; the Heads of Art and Design advise on entry to Art colleges; and the visiting Harvard Fellow advises on entry to North American universities.
You will find a general introduction to the subject here:
Letter about University Applications
We are holding a Conference on Studying Abroad in May for the Lower Sixth Form and their parents:
Studying Abroad Conference - Friday 11 May 2012
More detailed explanations of the application process can be found at:
Moving on to Higher Education 2011-12
Timeline for Entry to Universities 2011-12
If a Stoic is considering going to an Art college, the background is explained here:
Applying for an Art Foundation Course 2011-12
International Students have slightly different requirements, and we explain the position regarding English Language Tests here:
English Language Tests and University Entrance 2011-12
Admission to UK universities is organised by UCAS, who provide helpful guidance for parents:
UCAS website: Parents' pages
UCAS website: Parents' Guide 2011-12 (pdf)
A Level Results Day is another key moment, and for Stoics who want to be reminded what needs to be done we have produced these aide-memoires:
Examinations Office - Upper Sixth Form
What to do on A Level Results Day 2011-12
Contact: Mr David Critchley (UCAS Applications Tutor) 01280 818168 dcritchley@stowe.co.uk or Mrs Mandy Dawson (Head of Careers) 01280 818339 adawson@stowe.co.uk