CUKAS - Other options

Other options

If an applicant hasn't found the place they're looking for, or they've changed their mind about going to study at a conservatoire this year, there are plenty of options that can help them improve their knowledge and learn new skills or just give them a well-deserved break.

Take a gap year

Taking a gap year can be a great experience and one which helps your student get the skills they need for higher education. Gap years cover loads of options, from travelling abroad to work or volunteer, retaking qualifications, or learning something new that hasn't been an option before.

There are lots of sites to help them choose their gap year. The Year Out Group at www.yearoutgroup.com is a good place to start.

Reapply to conservatoires

If they'd like to start at a conservatoire next year, they'll need to reapply (we can't reuse an application from a previous year). Advise them to go to the Apply page to register.

Study in another country

Some students consider studying in a different country.

For the USA, a good place to start is the Fulbright Commission.
For Ireland, go to the Central Applications Office at www.cao.ie.
Another useful lead is the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
The British Council also offers advice, visit www.educationuk.org.
The embassies of other countries will usually be happy to provide guidance.

Need some advice?

If your students need some help deciding what to do, they could speak to their local careers service or Connexions office for advice, or contact learndirect.