If you have applied to university (or college) and received an offer, you might get invited to something called an Offer Holder Day. This is an invite-only opportunity for you to come into the university (or college) you have applied for, ask questions and find out more about the course, lecturers and university (or college) facilities. It’s useful even if you have already attended an Open Day. It is so much more in depth than an Open Day and you’re much further along your application process. You’ll probably have lots of different questions that you might not have thought about until this point.
Making sure it’s the right decision
This is a great chance for you to speak to students and staff and to really make sure that you’re happy with your decision. Usually there will be some subject specific activities to give you a taste of the kinds of things you’ll be doing on your degree while also testing the facilities available. Do you like the classrooms? The specialist facilities? Do the lecturers seem friendly and engaging? These are all things to consider making sure this university (or college) and course is the right fit for you.
A Head Start
Coming to an Offer Holder Day gives you a bit of a head start – you’ll meet some of the people who will be in your class when you start your degree which can take the pressure off. It’s very useful to have already got people in your class that you recognise as well as knowing who your lecturers are going to be. You’ll also find out more about the content you’ll be covering in your first year and how your course will be structured. With all this information you’ll be off to a great start in September!
It’s not just about the course!
My top tip for students coming to an Offer Holder Day is to spend some time looking around the city you will be moving to. This is so important, because you might think that the course is fantastic, but if you don’t enjoy living in the city you have chosen then you will probably feel disappointed! Exploring the area will mean you can be confident that you’ll be happy living here for the next few years, as well as making sure you know where the main things are that you’re likely to need while you’re studying.
Additionally, on Offer Holder Days, support services and other teams are available to give you more general advice and information about university life. If you have any specific questions, it’s always worth speaking to them.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Offer Holder Day is a really fun day which can build up the excitement for starting your degree. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The Student Ambassadors and staff are there to help you and they have lived experience of the university. The Offer Holder Day can give you real insight into what it’s going to be like, and it should help you out with your planning before you start your degree.
Download our Applicant Guide for more information and practical support.