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04 November 2020

Supporting a Friend or Family Member With Their Application

Deciding to go to college is a big step for everyone. Whether it’s moving to college straight from school or returning to education after a break, most people would benefit from a supportive friend during this process. Read our blog for some tips on how you can support a friend or family member who is considering applying for college.

College might have changed

If you're supporting your child with applying for college, some things may be slightly different to how they were when you went to college. Courses used to be Standard Grades, Intermediates and Highers. Whilst Highers are still offered at school, standard grades have been replaced by National 4s and 5s. Courses also now have a Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) level attached to them which describes the difficulty of the course. These levels act as a guide to a student’s ability and level of study.

Another thing that has changed are the subjects that the Edinburgh College offers. In the past, colleges were only considered as an option for those who failed their exams or wanted a job in hospitality or trades. Today, our students can study anything from law to robotics. Some students can leave school, study here for three years, and leave with an honours degree in a range of subjects. In 2019 around 850 students crossed the stage at McEwan Hall, graduating with qualifications from HNC to degree level.

Learn more about our courses.

Come along to an open day

Come along to a campus open day to find out more about Edinburgh College. We typically have open days at the beginning of the year, again in June and after SQA exam results day in August. Here you will have the opportunity to meet teaching staff and discuss your child’s abilities so that you can make an informed decision. Our open days have been virtual in 2020 and so far in 2021. Keep an eye on our social media channels and website where future dates will be announced.

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Be positive and encouraging

As part of the application process, your friend or family member will need to write a personal statement. Part of writing this statement is to highlight their strengths, which some people can find difficult. Talk to them about their abilities and what they like and don’t like. This will help them write a personal statement that is a true reflection on them.

Help with interview preparation

Depending on what course your child, friend or family members applies for, there might be an interview or audition. Help them prepare by asking questions that might come up in the interview. Why do they want to study the course? What relevant experience do they have?

Head to the application advice section of our website for more information about preparing for an interview or audition.

We’re happy to help

If you have any questions about the application process, funding or support then get in touch by emailing courseinfo@edinburghcollege.ac.uk