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Prospectuses

A university or college prospectus gives information about a particular course and institution, covering facilities, tuition fees, scholarships, courses, accommodation, support services and more.

Universities and colleges generally publish two prospectuses each year:

• an undergraduate prospectus for students taking a first higher education qualification, such as a batchelor’s degree or Foundation Degree
• a postgraduate prospectus, for students who already have a degree and want to take a higher degree or other postgraduate course

Prospectuses can be ordered or downloaded from individual university or college websites. At some universities and colleges you can also get an 'alternative prospectus', written by students, that gives an insider's view of the course, facilities and student life.

Higher education events

During the lower sixth or Year 12, it's a good idea to go to a higher education fair or event to get information on the universities and higher education colleges you are interested in.

At their exhibition stands you can pick up prospectuses and get answers to your questions – on everything from entry requirements to accommodation costs. You can also get careers guidance and information on student finance.

Higher education events are held in cities across the UK. Admission is free, but you may need to reserve a place in advance. Aside from exhibition stands, there may be seminars on topics such as the application process, gap years and student finance.

• Find details on higher education events near you (opens new window)

Open days

Open days usually take place in spring or autumn, when you may have had offers of a place from several universities, but you've not yet accepted one.

While you may build up an impression from reading the university or college's literature, there's no substitute for seeing a place for yourself. Many students say it was visiting the place on an open day that helped sway them towards their first choice. An open day gives you the chance to explore the site, see the accommodation and talk to staff.

You may be able to register and book a place through the university or college's website. If you can't make the dates for the open days, you may be able to sign up for a guided tour instead, or visit informally under your own steam.

If you want a closer look at a particular course, you may even be able to take part in a student shadow scheme, where you spend a day with an existing student.

• Find out about open days, how to get the most from them, and book a place (opens new window)

More useful links

• What is higher education really like?