How to Start Your Journey to a Top UK University

Evelyn Pike
January 27th 2026

Securing a place at a top UK university like Oxford or Cambridge requires strategic planning, and starting early makes a difference. At William Clarence, we offer personalised mentoring from ages 14 or 15 to give students a head start in the competitive admissions process. Students from all education systems benefit from beginning early.

Why Start Early?

Early preparation helps students make informed subject choices, explore academic interests, and engage in super-curricular activities, ensuring they are well positioned by ages 16 or 17.

We work with students from a wide range of education systems, many broader than the UK system. Many need support exploring specialisms and widening subject knowledge.

Building Your Profile

UK Year 12 is crucial.

  • Subject Selection: Guidance on choosing A-levels, IB, APs or national qualifications aligned with degree goals.
     
  • Extracurricular Activities: Support in selecting meaningful activities that strengthen applications.
     
  • Oxbridge Admissions: Full support with personal statements, admissions tests, and interviews.
     

School Leaving Qualifications

A-levels, IB, and APs are assessed differently. Our consultants provide tailored advice on presenting qualifications to UK universities.

The Value of Early Preparation

Starting early allows students to build a strong academic and extracurricular profile and a compelling personal statement.

Tips for International Students

  • Plan for UCAS and early Oxbridge deadlines.
     
  • Prepare for additional tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
     
  • Align international qualifications with UK admissions criteria.

Contact William Clarence Education to start preparing for success at a top UK university.