Parents and carers guide to university

The months leading up to your child starting university can be an exciting but anxious time for everyone involved. As a parent, it’s natural to worry about the significant costs of a degree. As well as if it will benefit your child's life and career in the long-term.

Your child may be feeling overwhelmed by the number of potential courses and universities to choose from. Knowing that the decisions they make will shape the next few years of their life and beyond. 

Visit us on campus

Explore our fantastic campuses on our student-led campus tours. Discover what life is like here at the University of Central Lancashire.

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Advice articles

Find out how you can support your child on their journey
  • Results day – a parent’s guide

    We’ve got some top tips for parents and carers to help you navigate results day with your child.

  • Is university worth it?

    There are lots of reasons why it's worth going to university. Find out why a degree is still the best investment your child can make for their future.

  • Helping your child choose a course and university

    University is a big step so make sure you're prepared to help your child choose the right course and university for them.

  • How does student finance work?

    Not sure how student finance works? Don’t let the thought of student debt put you off applying to university. Find out why and how university is still affordable using our guide to university fees.

  • How university applications work

    From application to offer find out how university applications work and how you can support your child throughout the process.

  • Supporting your child on results day

    Results day can be a stressful time for everyone involved, find out how to help and support your child on results day and beyond.

Student living costs

Considering university and concerned about finances? We're the most affordable uni in the country according to The Times (2023). Discover how to manage your finances and explore the support available.

Visit our cost of living support hub

How can you help?

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Why study with us?

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1. On top of the world

We’re one of the top universities in the world – it’s official. The Center for World University Rankings has placed us in the top 7% of universities worldwide (2022-23).

Key university dates 

The timeline should give you a good idea of how much time your child has to think about their university choices. As well as submit an application, apply for a student loan and accept an offer. 

During this time your child should think carefully about what course(s) they’d like to study and which universities are right for them. The UCAS website is a good starting point. Encourage them to do their research by checking out university websites and prospectuses. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Open Days and attend UCAS Fairs to help them reach a decision.

If your child is thinking about coming to the University of Central Lancashire visit our Undergraduate webpage to explore our courses and find out when our Open Days are taking place.

Useful information

How to write your personal statement

Now you've got an idea of which Uni you want to apply to, it's time for your personal statement. Here are some top tips on how to make a great impression.

Visit us

Travel details for Preston, Burnley and Westlakes can be found on our Campus pages. Access guides for the University buildings are available via AccessAble.

Accommodation

There’s something special about living in university accommodation, especially if it’s your first time away from home. With a wide range of accommodation options, we'll help you find the right place for you.

Student support

We pride ourselves on our excellent student support services, we offer expert advice and support with health and wellbeing, inclusive support, financial advice and much more.

If you have any questions

If you still have some unanswered questions, our Course Enquiries Team will be happy to help.

You can call them on 01772 892400 or email cenquiries@uclan.ac.uk