It is interesting that these ‘conditional unconditional’ offers are a bit less popular among students in this academic cycle than they were last year. The idea is that the student is guaranteed a place irrespective of their grades – an unconditional offer – on the condition that the university is the student’s firm or first choice. For students with lower academic achievement, or who are worried that the stress of the exams might see them under-perform, these offers are a good idea.
It is, however, my opinion, that many of the universities offering these types of offers can probably be found during the clearing process. I think it would be better to try and achieve as high a grade as possible and strive for some of the universities with a better rank. Then, if in the end, this strategy is unsuccessful, it is quite likely that the types of universities offering these types of offers will still be available.
The news that students are accepting these types of offers at a reduced rate from last year also suggests that students are aware that this might not be their best choice.
There are, of course, students who are delighted to be able to have an unconditional offer despite the grades they may achieve. But a poor showing at A-level is not generally a recipe for success at university. I think it is true that effort is rewarded and lack of effort seldom is. It would be my advice to any student with one of these offers to really consider the impact it might have on their preparation for their final exams before accepting it.
Photo Credits : Photo by Hudson Alpha
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