Supporting your teenager as they begin to consider university can feel like a big milestone and a big responsibility. With so many courses, institutions, and pathways available, it’s easy for both parents and teens to feel overwhelmed. But with a little planning, plenty of open conversation, and the right resources, this process can become a really exciting journey for your family.
Here’s how you can help your teen explore their university options, without stress or pressure, just support, guidance, and open doors. From choosing the right subjects to providing encouragement at every stage in the process, we help you to set your child up for success.
Start with Their Interests and Strengths
The best place to start is with your teen’s strengths, interests, and career aspirations (if they have them). They don’t need to know exactly what they want to do yet, but encouraging them to reflect on the subjects they enjoy and the skills they want to develop can help narrow the field.
Some helpful questions to explore together:
- What subjects do they love?
- What are they naturally good at?
- Do they want a practical career, something creative, or something academic?
- Would they prefer a course with work experience or placements?
- Would they thrive in a big city or a smaller university town?
For teens who are still figuring it out, our blog on How to Reflect on the School Year and Set Intentions for the Next is a great place to start building self-awareness and confidence.
Get to Know the UCAS System
Once you’ve had some big-picture conversations, it’s time to introduce the UCAS application process. UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is the central platform where students apply to UK universities. It includes course listings, key dates, and tools to help compare options.
Students can apply to up to five courses, so it’s important to weigh up each choice carefully.
You can visit the official site here: www.ucas.com
And if you’re new to the system, our blog on How to Choose the Right University Course is packed with tips for students and parents alike.
Encourage Open Days and Virtual Tours
There’s no substitute for getting a feel for a university first-hand. Encourage your teen to attend open days or virtual tours to see campuses, accommodation, and facilities.
Open days are a chance to:
- Talk to current students and lecturers
- Ask about modules, teaching style, and support
- See what student life is really like
And if travel’s tricky, many universities now offer excellent virtual experiences that allow prospective students to explore from home.
Think Beyond Academics
University is about more than just lectures and revision (although these are important). It’s also about growing as a person. When discussing options with your teen, don’t forget to consider:
- Societies, clubs, and extracurriculars
- Study abroad or placement opportunities
- The university’s reputation for student wellbeing
- City life, travel links, and cost of living
Some teens may be more excited about what’s on offer outside the classroom, and that’s totally valid. It all contributes to their overall university experience.
Explore Alternatives Too
University is a fantastic path for many students, but it’s not the only one. If your teen is unsure, it’s worth also exploring degree apprenticeships, foundation courses, or taking a gap year.
For example, they may prefer to start an apprenticeship where they can work and learn (and even earn) at the same time. This is a great way to gain a qualification while gently entering the world of work.
Provide Encouragement, Not Pressure
One of the best things you can do is to listen, ask questions, and keep the lines of communication open. University choices should ultimately be your teen’s decision, but your encouragement can make a huge difference.
Let them know it’s okay to be unsure. It’s okay to change their mind. And it’s perfectly normal to feel a little overwhelmed at first.
Set Them Up for Success with Tutor Doctor
At Tutor Doctor, we know how important this time is for families. Whether your teen needs help boosting their grades, developing study skills, or simply building confidence before submitting their UCAS application, our one-to-one tutoring can provide the structure and support they need.
We’ve helped thousands of students get where they want to be, academically and personally.
Find your nearest Tutor Doctor location today and give your teen the best possible start on their university journey.
