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And we believe that higher education should provide students the opportunity to explore, grow, and thrive. Our company was founded by people who have contended first-hand with a university admissions system that is complicated and constantly changing. And for international students, the challenges are multiplied. Choosing the right school is a lifetime opportunity and investment. Let us help your student apply with knowledge and confidence to achieve good choices and admissions success.

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Counsellor Notes
28 August 2023

UCAS Admissions Results for the 2022-2023 Cycle

On August 17, when A-level students received their exam results, some 79% of UK school leavers gained a place at their chosen university or college. In addition, 51,210 international students were accepted to their firm or insurance choice, comprising 13% of all students placed. EU applicants to UK universities were down by 3% this year, a smaller decline than the 18% and 43% drops recorded in 2022 and 2021, respectively. Overall, admissions for the 2022-2023 cycle were more competitive than last year due to the growing number of UK school-leavers. As a result there were fewer places available in Clearing, with nine schools in the selective Russell Group reporting no vacancies. Computing courses became the 7th most popular subject with applications up 33% over 2021. Business and management degrees continued to occupy the top spot.

The U.S. Affirmative Action Ruling

The U.S. Supreme Court's July decision banning consideration of race in university admissions has had immediate impacts. Many schools reacted swiftly to release statements confirming their commitments to educational diversity as they study the decision's ramifications over the longterm. Many have added new essay questions to their applications for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle to give students space to reflect on their identities. A few have begun to dismantle the practice of legacy admissions, whereby preference is given to applicants whose family members have attended or made financial donations to the school. The ruling has also affected international student perceptions of higher education in the U.S.

The New UCAS Reference

As part of a broader reform package for UK university applications for 2024 entry, UCAS has announced changes to the school reference. The changes will include a new section focused on extenuating student circumstances and needed support, and reduce the space to report on student achievement. This will put a greater spotlight on how students themselves present their achievements in the personal statement.

University Advising

Our services are available by the hour or in customised packages to address the needs of

every student. An initial consultation is free.

Senior Year Checklist

Starting in spring, junior year, organisation is everything. This package provides essential support to help the student stay on track and ahead of deadline throughout the application process. It starts with an assessment and checklist, and is followed by a schedule of consultations to produce a to-do list and timeline and provide guidance in the areas the student needs help most. These may include research, developing the university list, application strategy, preparing for entry requirements, providing supporting materials and essays, and reviewing applications.

The University List

University admissions are competitive and unpredictable, and so having a smart university list is essential to ensuring good outcomes. There is so much more to choosing the right school than the name! Building the list usually starts in the spring of junior year and demands self-appraisal, reflection and research. It also requires strategy, since admissions dynamics change and student priorities shift. An effective list is a hedge against risk, and an important reminder that there are multiple pathways to achieve personal and educational goals.

Essay Development and Review

Whether it's 4,000 characters, 650 words or 50, the essay that is part of every university application challenges the student to write for distinction and impact. Choosing a topic, finding one's voice, selecting evidence, and writing effectively are key. And every writer needs a coach.

About Us

Expert Advice. Admissions Success.

Our Mission

University Bound offers advising and support to help families and students navigate a university landscape that is constantly shifting. Our approach is individualized, student-centered and ethical. Our aim is to increase knowledge, manage risk, and reduce stress. We are alert to the latest developments in higher education and equipped with insight and expertise to help students maximize their choices and gain admission to a ''right fit'' school.

Who We Are

Joanna Levison is an American expat living in Prague. She launched University Bound to help international students navigate an increasingly complex and global university application process in the U.K., U.S., Europe, and elsewhere, and has advised hundreds of successful students. She has over 20 years of experience in international relations, human rights advocacy, and strategic communications. She has managed mentoring programs for journalists in coordination with the Czech Foreign Ministry and the U.S. Embassy in Prague, and worked at the US State Department in Washington, D.C. She has a Masters Degree in Russian and Eastern European Studies.

Our Services

University Bound offers individualized one-to-one consulting. We help students reflect on the fundamental ''why'' of university and arrive at a personal understanding of ''fit." We provide comprehensive research and strategic guidance to produce an effective school list. We offer planning for every step of the application process, expert feedback on personal statements and essays, and insight into financial aid. We assess admissions offers and we celebrate results. We normally work by the hour to address every student need.