Choosing the right course

Choosing a degree course and university is your son or daughter’s decision. They will be much more likely to succeed if they are studying something they find interesting and relevant.

The university or course which most impresses you as a parent might not be the one your son or daughter feels most comfortable with.

If you disagree with their decision, it’s important to try to discuss the reasons for your disagreement. You may want to ask your son or daughter for their views on how the course will benefit them.

Ultimately, you may have to accept that what you want for them may not be what they want.

If you really feel your son or daughter is rushing into the wrong decision, you may want to remind them that taking a year off after school could help them make sure their decision is the right one. They can do this after they have made their UAC application, without losing their place at uni.

Can't decide on a course

If your son or daughter can’t decide between universities or courses, they should make sure their favourite options are listed first in their UAC preferences. The decision might become easier after they find out which course they have been accepted into, so it’s important that the courses they really want are listed as their first preferences.

If they still can’t decide or they have a long list of courses covering vastly different subject areas, it may be a sign that they are not ready to go to university. They may be better off deferring their entry for a year.

If your son or daughter wants to start even though they’re not sure where or what they want to study, remind them that it is possible to transfer between courses, and even between universities, after completing one year with good grades.