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Thinking About College or University?

Deciding to go to university is a big step for anyone. It can be confusing and a bit overwhelming. The process can be difficult and you might not know where to turn for help. Working through your application with your conector is a great idea, but perhaps you want to hear about the application process from some people who have left care themselves first. Well, below is a video by a care experienced Youtuber going through the application step-by-step with her friend. She shares her experiences of filling out the application, some common issues someone with care experience might come across and more. It's a bit long - but well worth the time if you have it!

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When applying for College or University, you will be asked whether you are care experienced via a tickbox. The Fostering Network have been working alongside UCAS to raise awareness of ticking the box and to break down some of the myths around what happens when you do tick the box.

Taken from the Tick the Box Campaign in 2022, here is an Instagram video explaining the following:

·        What happens to the information that I provide?

·        Why does UCAS asked me if I am care experienced

·        Why should I tick the box?

This video briefly talks about getting in touch via the phone, but if you don’t feel comfortable doing that, ask a connector or a trusted adult to do it with you!

When you attend that college of university, the support available will be different and can range from additional financial support in the form of a bursary, to practical support to help students settle in, find accommodation or manage finances. You can take all of the support options, pick and choose the ones that are right for you or say no to any of the support at any time. What’s important is that the College or University can offer that support to you. If they don’t know that you’re care experienced and you’re finding things difficult, they won’t be able to help you or point you in the direction of the help you may need.

You can also find additional information on the UCAS website here.

We really do encourage you to tick the box. It won’t affect your application process and it will make your route into further education easier. We understand that not everyone wants to tick the box but if you change your mind, you can let the student service department at any College or University know. What’s important is that you feel supported throughout your time in further education!