UCAS and UK University Search Fairs have one main purpose: to help you choose the right university for you. After all, it’s a big decision.
At a university fair, you can find out more about the universities you’re interested in, chat to staff from each university and get your questions answered. With hundreds of universities under one roof, you might even discover a university that’s perfect for you but wasn’t previously on your radar.
What are UCAS or UK University Search Fairs?
They’re large-scale events – usually held at arenas, university campuses or football stadiums. This is to allow space for all the university stands, their staff, and visitors like yourself.
As well as one-to-one conversations with university recruitment staff, you can also attend seminars on a variety of topics, pick up prospectuses and course information, and get further details about what each university has to offer. Ultimately, they’re designed to help you with your research.
You can find dates and locations for UCAS Fairs here and UK University Search Fairs here.
With so much information on offer at a university fair, it might feel a little overwhelming. So, it’s helpful if you can do some research about different universities beforehand to get the most out of your experience.
Questions to ask at a university fair
We’ve brought together some useful questions to ask when you’re visiting a fair. Remember, it’s important to consider the course you want to study as well as the university itself, so ask questions about both.
- Do you offer the course I’m interested in studying?
- What are the entry requirements? What grades or UCAS points will you need?
- Are there placement opportunities?
- What kind of assessments are on the course?
- What career prospects are there?
- Are there any travel opportunities?
- Where is it located?
- Is it a campus-based or city-based university?
- What type of student support is available?
- Are there any bursaries offered?
- What is the choice of accommodation?
- What subject areas do you offer?
- What are the facilities like?
- What do you look for in a personal statement?
- Why should I choose your university over others?
How to make the most of a university fair
- Make a note of the questions you want to ask. You can pick from our suggestions above or add your own, but taking them with you will really help.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. University staff are there to answer questions to help you make your decision, so ask away.
- Bring your registration pass with you. Your school or college will help you register for this beforehand. You can download it onto your phone. But don’t worry if you forget it on the day, you’ll be able to register at the welcome desk.
- Attend a seminar if you can. Here, you’ll be given information about topics like choosing a course, applying for student finance, or writing a personal statement.
- Speak to as many universities as you can. You might already have an idea of some universities you’d like to consider, but another may catch your eye that you haven’t heard about. Talk to them, as they might just be the perfect university for you.
Virtual fairs
If you’re not able to travel to an in-person fair, there are also virtual fairs for you to explore your options from the comfort of your own home. Just like in-person fairs, virtual fairs are a great opportunity to ask questions and find out more about each university you’re considering. They include online seminars, video virtual tours, and chats with lecturers and current students.
Both UCAS and UK University Search organise virtual fairs. Each organiser will offer a different approach. After you register, you’ll be sent emails with details about the fair and how it will work. Be sure to read those so you’re prepared.
If you are at college or sixth form, speak to your teachers, tutors and careers team for further information.
You’ll see our Edge Hill University team at UCAS and UK University Search Fairs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland throughout 2024.
We look forward to seeing you there.
January 23, 2023