Aim Higher - Factsheets

Factsheet 6

Where to find out more

For more information on student life, higher education and Finances, have a look at the following websites and resources.

Aimhigher materials

You and your students can get hold of a range of Aimhigher materials for young people and their parents free of charge by phoning 0800 587 8500.

These resources include a booklet which outlines the financial help that is available.

www.aimhigher.ac.uk

The Aimhigher portal is a ‘gateway’ where you and your students can find out all the information they need when it comes to higher education e.g. grades needed for particular courses? How to apply? Which university or college is the best for a particular subject? How stiff is the competition?

Supported by case studies and useful links, the site is split into the following sections:

Careers and guidance - Where students can find out more about the careers and jobs that interest them, including the qualifications that they would need. This section also includes advice on choosing courses.
Courses - This section provides information on the various courses that are available and the different routes into higher education.
Universities and colleges - Here students can get help in deciding where to study. Not only will students be able to search for universities and colleges, but they will also be able to find out information about them.
Applying for a course - This section guides students through the application process from filling in the forms to the interview and clearing.
Student finance - In this section, students can find out more about the cost of higher education and the various types of financial help that is available to them.
Student life - This section shows students what life will be like in higher education, including accommodation and the various clubs and societies that students can join.

Linking to the various sources of information, Aimhigher will help guide students through the pathway to higher education and will help clarify the role of each of the various organisations that students may encounter, including UCAS, local education authorities and the Student Loans Company.

General information

Learndirect

For information about fitting learning into your life.

Website: www.learndirect.co.uk

www.uni4me.co.uk

An easy-to-use site with questions and answers, case studies and lots of information on what university life is really like.

NUS - National Union of Students

Information on money, health, housing, and legal advice.

Website: www.nusonline.co.uk

Student Zone

Careers advice and services, links to other student information sites.

Website: www.studentzone.org.uk

Applying to higher education

UCAS - Universities and Colleges Admissions Service

Information on universities and courses and all aspects of the applications process.

Website: www.ucas.com

www.HERO.ac.uk

Links to all higher education institutions; news on higher education issues and a course search are all available. It is suitable for students and teaching and careers professionals.

Careers

www.connexions-direct.com

Sections for young people, parents and carers, employers, teachers and Connexions personal advisers with information on education and careers and details of your local Connexions partnership. The site aims to help young people to make informed decisions about their career options. There is a careers database, information on courses, where to get advice locally, how to do a CV, lifestyle features and the chance to register for a Connexions card to get discounts on travel, books and more.