How to compare universities
Our team share their tips for researching your study options.
So you’ve decided you want to go to university – that's great! But with over 160 universities in the UK alone, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you.
You can apply to up to five universities through UCAS, so even if you have a preferred university, it’s worth adding insurance options in case you change your mind, or things don’t quite go to plan.
Write down what's most important to you when looking for a university. Is it the location, the course content, or a good sports programme? Make a table of universities you're interested in and score them against your most important factors. Tools like Uniselect and AI agents can also help you to make a university shortlist.
Here are some important questions to ask about each university you're considering:
Choosing a location
- Is the university based somewhere you’d like to live for three+ years?
- Would you prefer the bustle of city living or a quieter town?
- Would you prefer a university on a self-contained campus or central to its town or city?
- What’s the cost of living like there?
- Is it close enough to home to visit, or commute from if you're planning to stay at home?
- What are the local amenities like? Are there nice parks, good shops, and plenty of things to do?
- Are there local employers you’d be interested in working with after your studies?
- Are there any bursaries or scholarships you’re eligible for?
- Are there affordable and conveniently located accommodation options?
Choosing a course
- Does the university offer courses in the subject you’re interested in?
- Are you interested in the course content?
- Are you predicted to achieve the entry requirements?
- Is work experience included in the course? Does the course have good industry connections and employer projects?
- Does the university rank well in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)?
- Is the university known for its excellence in your subject?
- What facilities would you have access to? Is there any specific equipment you need to master for your future career?
- Does the course offer a study abroad programme?
Extracurricular opportunities
- What employability services do they offer? Will you still receive support when you leave the university?
- What support services does the university offer that you might need?
- What extracurricular opportunities do they run that interest you, such as sports clubs, societies, arts programmes, and volunteering?
Once you have your university shortlist
By reflecting on these questions, you can narrow down to university and course combinations that align with your interests, even if you don’t have a specific career in mind yet. Keep an open mind and remember that your degree doesn’t lock you into one career – it's a foundation that you can build on in many ways.
Once you’ve made a shortlist, take a look at when those universities are running open days. Go to as many as you can and explore the campus and the city. Can you picture yourself living and studying there? Talk to the lecturers and get a feel for the course. Does it sound right for you?
If you can't make it to a university in person, many provide a virtual tour to show you around your subject facilities.
Open days and events
Our open days and events are the perfect way to see for yourself what makes life and learning at NTU so special. We can't wait to meet you.
Take a virtual tour
Can’t wait to see what it’s like to study with us? Try our Virtual Tour and immerse yourself in our campuses and life as a student at NTU.
Apply to your chosen universities
Once you've picked your top 3-5 universities, it's time to get applying! Check out our guide to university applications and search our courses below.
Find your course
How NTU compares
There are many reasons to choose NTU. Here are some of the highlights.
Still undecided?
If you're still unsure about going to university, read more about how you might benefit from the university experience and the different types of course you can study below.
Should I go to university?
Wondering if university is the right choice for you? This page might help you find the answers.
What is an undergraduate degree?
Not sure which undergraduate qualification is right for you? Compare Bachelor's degrees, Foundation courses, Degree Apprenticeships and other study routes at NTU.