Extracurricular activities play a key role in a students’ application to universities and should be started from the beginning of secondary school.

Participation in extracurricular activities demonstrate the critical skills needed to get a place in the best universities:

● Leadership
● Teamwork
● Time management
● Effective communication
● Critical skills and problem solving
● Cultural adaptability
● Resilience and emotional intelligence

Universities do not only look at a student’s academic record, they are looking for well-rounded individuals who will contribute to the community on campus. Extracurricular activities provide insights into a student's personality and strengths beyond how they perform academically.

Students should be able to demonstrate that they have been participating in extra extracurricular activities from as early as possible.

They can achieve this by engaging in the following activities:

1. Volunteering

Volunteering shows empathy and social responsibility, which are highly valued traits by all universities. Students can also improve practical skills and explore different career opportunities.

Here are some examples of how students can volunteer:

● Research local charities and see if there are opportunities to fundraise for disadvantaged people, help younger children with reading or English, or support elderly people in the community.
● Set up a club or an event at school which teaches other students something new or helps to raise awareness for a charity.
● Gain a skill which will allow the student to help others on an ongoing basis e.g. learn how to mentor younger students or become first aid trained

2. Hobbies

Participation in hobbies allows students to explore their passions and showcase their personality with participation in events, clubs and activities.

Younger students should try a range of activities to see what their passions are. They should also focus on improving skills in key subjects e.g. English, maths and science.

For older students, participation in hobbies demonstrates strong team working skills and a commitment to the subject you want to study at university. Students can strengthen their application further by taking up mentoring or coaching opportunities in clubs.

If a student wants to study science at university, they should join relevant clubs and attend events that enhance their knowledge and show their curiosity. Your application should demonstrate that you have strong analytical skills and lots of practical experience.

If a student wants to study technology at university, they should join clubs and events that keep them up to date with the latest technologies. In this field, strong technical skills, for example coding, are essential.

3. Internships

For younger students, internships provide great exposure to different industries. Even a few days of work experience learning about an industry or company is highly beneficial.

Internships for older students should be directly related to the subject they want to study and they should take up as many opportunities as possible. Internships can really make an application stand out from students who have the same academic record.

4. Summer schools

Summer schools show universities that a student is committed to learning and is able to immerse themselves in a ‘campus’ environment. Younger students can focus on their hobbies and improve their English skills.

However, to make the most impact, older students should find activities that relate to their future career and the skills needed to be successful in that industry.