How Class 12 students aiming to study in India or the U.K. can navigate the year Premium

Prepare for college applications in the U.K. and India by researching, building your profile, and meeting deadlines efficiently.

The previous column was a guide to navigate the application process for colleges in the U.S. This time, the focus is on India and the U.K.

Research: Start preparing. Studythe programmes you are interested in. U.K. Universities clearly state the marks required on their websites, so you will know how much you need to score. Familiarise yourself with the testing requirements and understand the test, the deadline and registration process. Similarly, for India, narrow down your choices, research the courses, and familiarise yourself with the tests required.

Build your profile: The U.K. only wants to see subject knowledge, so your UCAS personal statement must reflect how you have built skills and knowledge in that area. Complete online courses, watch videos or try job shadowing to strengthen your profile. Private Indian universities also have space in their applications for co-curricular and extracurricular activities.

Read: Build your knowledge. If you are applying to Ashoka University in India, remember that the application form asks you to mention the books.

IELTS: Take the IELTS English exam over the summer if you’re applying to the U.K.

Start personal statement: Start on your personal statement for the U.K. in July. Add all the things you did over the summer too. Focus on demonstrating academic interests, plans for the future, and suitability for the course.

Entrance tests: Register for required Entrance Tests for the U.K.: UCAT, BMAT, TMUA, TARA, LNAT and required Oxbridge Tests. India also has entrance tests like the CUET, SET, AAT, FEAT depending on the college. Deadlines vary depending on which round you choose to apply in.