How does BST help your child to apply and secure a place at university?

For students at the British School of Tashkent (BST), our university counsellor and Head of Sixth Form, Mr Jacques Krige plays a key part in helping them to understand and successfully navigate their way to the university of their choice.

Taking the step from sixth form to university is an exciting challenge, but there are many big decisions which sit between these two milestones. It is the role of the university counsellor to provide support and guidance, so that these decisions are informed, manageable, and ultimately lead students to securing a place at a university which suits their ambitions.

Making decisions about future pathways

At the beginning of a student's journey to university, students and families must undertake considered research and decision making. Our university counsellor plays an important role in guiding them through this process and signposting the important factors to consider. For example, does the student have a firm understanding of how their chosen degree is taught at their potential university, what they will learn and how the style of teaching may differ from a university elsewhere? 

University rankings often play a key role in the decision-making process for students. However, there will be a number of other criteria which also shape the university experience. Our counsellor encourages students to be aware of the diversity of choice available to them. They also help students to understand the locations of their potential universities and what it would actually be like to live and study there.

Understanding the application system

It’s usual for students to apply to a number of of universities in different countries. Popular destinations include anywhere from the UK and America, to Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. This ideally gives students several options when choosing their university destination, but also requires them to navigate a variety of application systems that vary significantly between countries. 

The university counsellor plays a key part in guiding students and parents through the application process. They have experience and knowledge of international application processes and are equipped to help students navigate through different systems.

Preparing to impress

The written application is the first step in securing a place at a top university. At this stage and beyond, our counsellor is an ally for students and ensures they are prepared for each stage of the process. From writing references and recommendation letters, providing feedback on applications, and holding country-specific practice interviews, our counsellor helps every student to put their best foot forward and to have a clear understanding of what is required for a successful application. 

Student wellbeing

We recognise that our students have big ambitions and are often juggling numerous challenges simultaneously. In term 1, our year 13 students will balance a variety of demands and this is also when the majority of university applications take place. Most applications are very time consuming – for example, a typical application to a US university takes 15-20 hours. 

The combination of A level workload and university applications are the most demanding tasks students will have faced in their academic journey. Paying close attention to student wellbeing and their handling of these commitments is a key priority. Our university counsellor takes a holistic view of everything students are juggling and helps them to understand and prepare in advance for the demands of university applications, supports effective time management offers additional help to those struggling. 

Our university counsellor oversees and guides the entire process from research and decision making, to applying and securing a place at university.