The Uni Guide Podcast

Episode 54: Degree apprenticeships explained: work, study and uni life Thinking about a degree apprenticeship but not sure how they work? In this episode, we explore what degree apprenticeships are really like, how students balance work and university study, what employers are looking for, and how to apply successfully. Degree apprenticeships have become one of the most searched-for alternatives t...

Episode 53: Choosing a career: do you need it figured out at 18? Do you need to have your future career planned out by the age of 18? This episode explores the pressure many students feel to make big decisions about university, careers and their future, and why it is completely normal for plans, interests and ambitions to change over time. For students approaching university applications, career c...

Episode 52: Degree apprenticeships: step up and stand out Thinking about a degree apprenticeship but unsure what the pathway looks like? This episode explores how degree apprenticeships work, what the application process involves, and how students can stand out when applying for competitive apprenticeship opportunities. For many students, a traditional university degree is no longer the only route...

Episode 51: University explained: courses, costs and applications Thinking about going to university but unsure how it all works? This episode explains the key things students need to understand about university courses, tuition fees, student finance and the university application process. For many students, researching university can feel confusing at first. There are thousands of university cour...

Episode 50: Why study engineering at university and what it’s really like Thinking about studying engineering at university but not sure what it actually involves? This episode breaks down what an engineering degree is really like, what you would study day to day, and the careers it can lead to after university. Engineering is one of the broadest and most misunderstood university subjects. In this...

Episode 49 – Is university for everyone? Access, affordability and opportunities In this episode, we tackle a big and often debated question: is university really for everyone? But before we tell you all about it, check out a fantastic resource we didn't have time to mention - the Sutton Trust Contextual Offer tool ( 2025 Contextual Offers Tool for UK Universities ) Back to the episode now. We're...

Episode 48 – Does your uni course choice shape your future career? In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest decisions students make – choosing a university course – and explore how much that choice really impacts future career paths. Our guest Chris Rea, Head of Strategic Relationships at Prospects, joins Reece Buckley, a final year Micro and Molecular Biology student at Manchester Metropo...

Episode 47 – Student discounts before and during university In this episode, we explore the world of student discounts – what’s available, how to access them, and how students can make the most of the savings on offer both before and during university. Our guest Sheeva from Student Beans shares insider tips on the discounts that most students don’t know about, from travel and tech to food and fash...

Episode 46 – Results day takeaways & 2026 uni application tips In this episode, we look back at clearing and results day in 2025 and ahead to the 2026 application cycle – exploring what’s changed, what students can learn from this year’s trends, and how to make stronger choices for next year. James Seymour, an experienced university marketing and recruitment director, joins Year 13 students Ch...

Episode 45 - University in 2026 – year 12’s biggest questions answered In this episode, we’re looking ahead to university from a Year 12 perspective, tackling the questions that are front of mind for students right now. From choosing courses to writing personal statements, this is a chance to hear honest views from current students who are one step ahead in the process. We’re joined by new co-host...

E44: Get Uni ready for 2026 – study skills and exam techniques In this episode, we’re focusing on the skills and strategies that can make a real difference to your studies and your results. Whether you’re revising for exams, getting ready for university, or just looking to improve how you learn, this is your chance to hear proven advice from an expert who has supported over half a million students...

In this episode, we’re helping students feel ready for one of the biggest days in their pre-university journey – Results Day – and prepared to navigate the Clearing process with confidence if they need to. Clearing can be an excellent route into university, but many students don’t fully understand how it works or how to make the most of it under pressure. So, where should you start? And what shoul...

E42: Make the most of uni fairs – before, during and after In this episode, we're guiding students through every stage of a university fair – helping them feel prepared before it starts, confident while it's happening, and clear on what to do next. University fairs can be a brilliant opportunity to explore your options, ask questions, and gather the info you need to make informed choices about you...

E41: Mental health at uni – what to know before you go In this episode, we’re exploring what really matters when it comes to well-being and support before and during university life – from dealing with the pressures of applying, to navigating student life once you’re there. We’re joined by two incredible guests who bring insights from both personal and professional perspectives – sharing practical...

E40: Your first year at uni – what to expect from student life Starting university: freshers, finance, studies and settling in In this episode, we’re diving into what student life is really like in your first year of university – from the excitement of freshers’ week to the realities of budgeting, balancing studies, and settling into a whole new way of learning and living. We’ve brought together c...

E39: Creative courses at university – passion to profession In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on creative courses at university – from art and design to media, music, performing arts and beyond. We’ve brought together a panel of experts and students to explore what creative courses really offer, and how they can lead to rewarding careers across a whole range of industries. We’ll cover: Wh...

Episode 38: Degree & Higher Apprenticeships - Earn and learn Are you weighing up whether to go to university or start an apprenticeship? In this episode, we bring together a panel of experts and students to explore both pathways, helping you make an informed decision about your future. We’ll cover: The different types of apprenticeships and how they compare to university degrees. Why apprentic...

Episode 37: Is university right for you in 2025? Are you wondering if university is the right path for you? In this episode, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making that big decision in 2025. From the key benefits of university life to common misconceptions, our expert guests and student panel dive into the real stories behind higher education. We’ll explore: Why people go to univer...

Episode 36: Making your university personal statement stand out In this episode of The Uni Guide Podcast, we’re tackling everything you need to know about writing a standout personal statement for your 2025 university application. Whether you’re just getting started or refining your final draft, our expert insights will help you navigate this crucial part of the admissions process. We’ll cover: Wh...

Turning potential into performance – your motivation boost for the new academic year   In this episode, we're here to give you the motivation you need to kick off the new academic year with energy and focus. We'll help you see the opportunities ahead and unlock your full potential. We’ll explore: What does it mean to turn potential into performance, and why is it essential? How can university...

In this episode, we dive into all aspects of university open days to help you get the most out of your experience. We'll cover: What is an Open Day? What exactly happens at a university open day? Do all universities offer them? When and where do they take place? How do they differ from other university events? Why attend and how to prepare: Why should attending an open day be a priority for you? S...

In this special episode we are getting you ready for your 2025 university application - because you an submit your university application from now - September 3 2024! Key Topics We'll Cover: What subjects are popular? Which ones are not? When do students start working on their personal statements? What are the most popular university searches on Unifrog? What did our expert guests wish they knew a...

In this special episode dedicated to university results day and clearing, we bring you invaluable insights and guidance with FIVE special guests! We’ll walk listeners through three mock clearing phone calls, demonstrating exactly what you can expect during these crucial conversations with universities. Key Topics We'll Cover: What is Clearing? : Understand the purpose and process of clearing in th...

Important note - student finance has changed and will change again! Please check for the latest information. This was released in June 2024, please also check for the latest guidance. In this episode, part 2 of our student finance two-episode special, we discuss: What are the key student finance facts students need to know? Including a guide to tuition fees and maintenance loans How do repayments...

Important note - student finance has changed and will change again! Please check for the latest information. This was released in June 2024, please also check for the latest guidance. In this episode, we explore the complex world of student finance to help students navigate their way through funding university. We discuss: Student Loans: How do students really feel about taking on loans? Including...