Month: May 2023

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University Admissions

University of Oxford: University College

University College Grounds:

 

Overall, the grounds at University College, Oxford University, are known for their beauty and historical significance. The college’s architecture and landscaping create a picturesque environment that reflects the rich history and tradition of the university. The Front Quad, the main entrance that is adorned with flower beds, the Chapel, which beholds stunning stained glass windows, and the Fellows’ Garden, a secluded area that provides a tranquil respite from work and study.

 

Admissions Statistics:

 

According to available data from 2019–2021, 69% of University College’s intake was state-educated versus 31% from independent schools. Furthermore, 55% of those admitted were female versus 45% male. Between 2019 and 2021, the college received 881 state applications, admitting 198 (representing a 22% success rate), as well as 373 independent school applications, admitting 88 (representing a 24% success rate).

 

University College Notable Alumni:

 

University College boasts an illustrious roster of distinguished alumni. Its network spanning a multitude of fields and leaving an indelible mark on society. In Politics and Governance, the college counts among its ranks former prime ministers such as Clement Atlee and Harold Wilson. Likewise, in Literature and the Arts the college has nurtured brilliant minds like Percy Shelly, C.S. Lewis, and Max Hastings. In addition to Stephen Hawking in Physics and Cosmology.

 

Inside Perspective:

 

Studying and living at Univ College is hard to fault. The college’s unwavering commitment to student welfare is unquestionable. With a steadfast focus on ensuring that students have the opportunity to reside in college accommodations throughout the entirety of their degree. Putting the usual disclaimers about college reputations and stereotypes aside, Univ prides itself on being (or so it claims) both the oldest and the friendliest college in Oxford. As aforementioned, it also boasts a remarkable number of notable alumni. If a fun, friendly, famous college in the centre of Oxford is what you’re interested in, then you’d be hard pressed to find a better match than Univ.

 

Should you Apply?

 

If you are looking for a college that ticks almost every box, then Univ is an excellent choice for you. Other colleges may scoff at their claim to belong to the oldest college, but no one will deny that Univ members think it is the best! In a realm where the positive far outweighs the negative, it is an indisputable truth that University College stands tall as an exceptional choice. Where limitless opportunities and unparalleled satisfaction await.

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain an advantage in the application process for university. With tutors who are experts in Oxbridge admissions, we enhance performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building. From guidance on halls, to interview practise, private tuition with us leaves no stone unturned. Please contact us to find a tutor to help your child enter University College at the University of Oxford.

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University Admissions

The University of Oxford: Worcester College

In respect to the Norrington Table, Worcester does reasonably well, often scoring in the midfield in terms of the number of firsts awarded to its students. That said, the college places a premium on student welfare, and one gets the impression that many students at Worcester enjoy a slightly more balanced experience.

 

College stereotypes aren’t always symmetrical with reality, but it is fair to say that Worcester has a reputation for being an academic idyll—a place where garden parties and study sessions happily live side by side. If you are looking for spacious, verdant surroundings in which to live the life of the mind, then look no further than Worcester.

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Worcester College Admissions Statistics:

 

According to available data from 2019-2021, 79% of Worcester College’s intake was state educated versus 21% from independent schools; and 60% of those admitted were female versus 40% male. Between 2019 and 2021, the college received 2,261 state applications, admitting 266 (representing a 12% success rate) as well as 853 independent school applications, admitting 70 (representing an 8% success rate). In short, Worcester is the most oversubscribed college in Oxford admissions.

 

Worcester College Notable Alumni:

 

The college’s notable alumni include actresses Gemma Chan, Ellie Kemper, and Emma Watson, as well as noteworthy figures like Rupert Murdoch, Elana Kagan, and Anne-Marie Slaughter.

 

Inside Perspective:

 

There’s no denying that Worcester is a lovely college. It is a happy and supportive community, balancing academic achievement with personal development and social enrichment. It’s fabulous having such a large site (26 acres) that is close to the city centre, the train station, supermarkets, and also the trendy areas in Jericho. The college’s facilities are quite extensive, including some of the best sports grounds at Oxford University. The college even has its own lake. There aren’t many downsides. However, for some, the college might be (comparatively speaking) a little laid back, and it’s slightly to the west of the city centre (but not by much), so there are some who find this inconvenient in relation to the location of certain elements, like the examination schools.

 

Should you Apply?

 

Despite how wonderful Worcester is, you should think long and hard before applying. It receives so many applications and has such a low acceptance rate that you may be taking unnecessary risks by applying.

 

Contact Think Tutors

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors’ elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain an advantage in the application process for university. With tutors who are experts in Oxbridge admissions, we enhance performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building. From guidance on halls, to interview practise, private tuition with us leaves no stone unturned. Please contact us if you are interested in finding a tutor to help your child enter the Oxford college of their choice and succeed in their studies.

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School Admissions

Independent School Admissions: 16+ Entry

Sixth Form is the last two years of secondary school in the UK, in which students can either study A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB). Most independent schools require students to sit entrance examinations and assessments at 16+ to evaluate their academic abilities and potential. These assessments may include written exams, interviews, and sometimes practical assessments for specific subjects. It is advisable to prepare well in advance by reviewing the syllabus, practicing past papers, and seeking guidance from teachers or tutors.

 

What is the 16+?

 

Sixth Form is the last two years of secondary school in the UK, in which students can either study A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB). Most independent schools require students to sit entrance examinations and assessments to evaluate their academic abilities and potential. These assessments may include written exams, interviews, and sometimes practical assessments for specific subjects. It is advisable to prepare well in advance by reviewing the syllabus, practicing past papers, and seeking guidance from teachers or tutors.

 

How to take the 16+?

 

Dependent on the school, a student will usually be asked to sit exams in their chosen A-Level/IB subjects, sit papers in English and Maths, and sometimes to take a CAT4 test. Alongside subject-specific examinations and GCSE results, independent schools require a personal statement as part of the admissions process. Personal statements provide an opportunity to showcase a student’s interests, aspirations, and unique qualities that make them an excellent candidate for the school. A reference will also be required from the candidate’s current school, as they can provide insight into a student’s character and potential, in combination with predicted GCSE grades.

 

Registration deadlines usually fall in September of the student’s final year of GCSEs (Year 11), although international students may have an earlier deadline and may need to take the UKiset test in advance of this deadline. Examinations and interviews will occur in October/November of Year 11, with decisions made by December. It is advisable to visit each school’s website or contact their admissions offices directly for detailed information on the application process, deadlines, and specific entry requirements for 16+ admissions.

 

Why is the admission process important for independent school admissions?

 

There are several prestigious independent schools in the UK that offer 16+ entry for aspiring students. Schools and Sixth Forms utilise the information provided by the student, in combination with their GCSE grades and school reference, to assess whether that student would be a suitable fit for their institution. Current schools that assess students for 16+ admissions include Eton College, Harrow, Westminster, Winchester, Radley, Wycombe Abbey, and Marlborough.

 

How can students prepare for the 16+ entry?

 

The process of applying to independent schools in the UK for Year 11 students requires careful planning, preparation, and research. By conducting thorough school research, preparing for entrance examinations and interviews, and seeking support from teachers and mentors, a student can enhance their chances of securing admission to their preferred institution.

 

At Think Tutors, we offer subject-specific tutoring, exam and interview preparation, personal statement support, and overall application guidance for 16+ entry. Our experienced tutors provide personalised instruction and guidance tailored to each student’s unique needs and learning style. They can help students develop effective study techniques and identify areas of weakness, then provide targeted practice to build their confidence and mastery of the exam’s content. Through one-on-one tuition, Think Tutors help students achieve their best to gain admission to their desired independent school.

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain an advantage in the application process for private education. With a 97% school admission success rate, our tutors are adept at enhancing performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building.

 

We can either provide hourly or full-time tuition in addition to homeschooling. We can organise tuition wherever and whenever, with the option of in-person or online tuition. Please contact us if to find a tutor to help your child succeed at 16+.

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School Admissions

Independent School Admissions: Common Entrance at 13+

What is the Common Entrance (CE)?

 

The Common Entrance is a series of assessments that many independent schools in the UK use to evaluate students’ expertise and skills in various subjects. It is designed to assess students’ ability to think critically and apply their knowledge to solve problems. The exam is taken by Year 8 students who aim to enrol in an independent school for their secondary education.

 

The CE tests students’ knowledge and skills in various subjects. Including: English, Mathematics, Science, French, German, Spanish, Latin, Geography, History, Religious Studies, and Music. It also evaluates students’ writing skills, including their ability to express themselves clearly and concisely.

 

How to take the test?

 

The CE is administered by the Independent Schools Examinations Board (ISEB). The exam is taken in the summer term of Year 8, usually in May or June. It is taken at the student’s current school under strict exam conditions; however, an arrangement can also be made with a private invigilator. The papers are then marked by the student’s first-choice school, and if unsuccessful, the first-choice school will send the papers to the second-choice school.

 

The fee for candidates taking the examination in the UK will cost a student and their family £140, with single subjects costing £30 each. Registration periods for entering a student falls in the July, October and December of each year. With the assessment period taking place in November, January and May/June (dependent on when the student was registered).

 

Why is the Common Entrance important for independent school admissions?

 

Taking the CE has several benefits for students who wish to attend independent schools. Firstly, it provides an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and skills in a range of subjects. Secondly, it helps independent schools identify students who have the potential to excel academically. Thirdly, it can help students prepare for the rigorous academic programme that they will encounter at independent schools. Therefore, it is of high importance that the student performs to the best of their ability and revises well to attend their first choice-school.

 

How can students prepare for the CE?

 

Preparing for the CE can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance and support, students can feel confident and well-prepared on exam day. To succeed in the CE, students should begin their preparation several months in advance, ideally in the autumn term of Year 8. They should familiarise themselves with the exam’s format and content and practise answering Common Entrance past papers under timed conditions.

 

At Think Tutors, we understand the importance of the Common Entrance in gaining admission to independent schools. We offer specialised tuition to help students achieve their goals. Our experienced tutors provide personalised instruction and guidance tailored to each student’s unique needs and learning style. They can help students develop effective study techniques and identify areas of weakness. Then providing targeted practise to build their confidence and mastery of the exam’s content. Through one-on-one tuition, Think Tutors help students achieve their best to gain admission to their desired independent school.

 

Contact Think Tutors

 

Organising tuition or mentoring with one of Think Tutors elite tutors or mentors is an excellent way to gain an advantage in the application process for private education. With a 97% school admission success rate, our tutors are adept at enhancing performance through repetition, careful preparation, and confidence building.

 

We can either provide hourly or full-time tuition in addition to homeschooling. We can organise tuition wherever and whenever, with the option of in-person or online tuition. Please contact us if to find a tutor to help your child succeed in the CE at 13+.