Top Tips for Applying to Sixth Form

Thinking about your next step after GCSEs? Whether Highlands College is your first choice or you’re still weighing your options, it’s always a good idea to make an application early. Every year our most popular courses fill up fast - so even if you’re also applying to another provider, having an application with Highlands keeps your options open.

Applying for sixth form can feel like a big step, so we’ve put together some top tips to help make your application process as smooth and successful as possible.

1. Do Your Research

Before you start your application, take a bit of time to plan.

✅ Know your predicted GCSE grades. 
These are key to helping you understand which level of study (Level 2 or Level 3) you’re most suited to. (You don't need to include these in your application.)

✅ Check the entry criteria for your chosen course. 
Each course at Highlands has specific requirements, and it’s important to make sure you meet them.

✅ Understand your course options. 
Many subjects are offered at both Level 2 and Level 3, so make sure you apply for the one that best matches your qualifications and ambitions.

You can explore the full range of courses here on our website, find the perfect fit for your future goals.

2. Write a Strong Personal Statement

Your personal statement gives us an insight into who you are, what motivates you, and why you’ve chosen your course.

✅ Title your personal statement clearly. 
It's important to make sure your personal statement links to the correct course choice.

✅ Write one for each course you apply to. 
Don’t skip this step. Incomplete applications can delay the process.

✅ Use our guide to help you!
It talks you through what to include about yourself and some do's and don'ts on how to write it.

🚫 Don’t upload a statement for your second choice and forget to do one for your first. 
Your first choice should always have a personal statement too.

Use your statement to tell us about your interests, achievements, work experience, and what excites you about studying at Highlands College.

3. Complete All Personal Details Carefully

It’s important that we can contact you easily about your application.

✅ Fill in your full personal details. 
This includes your address, contact numbers, and both your school and personal email addresses.

✅ Include next of kin information. 
Please include their mobile number(s). This is essential for communication and safeguarding.

🚫 Don’t list your own mobile number under next of kin!
You can't be your own next of kin. 

4. Keep an Eye on Your Emails

Once your application is submitted, communication is key - keep an eye on both your school and personal emails.

✅ Check your emails regularly.
From the end of March onwards, keep checking your emails (including your junk folder!).

✅ Follow the steps in the email.
Step-by-step instructions will be given in any automated emails you receive from Highlands.

✅ Attend Experience Days (November) and Transition Days (June). 
This really helps you get a feel for college life and meet your tutors and classmates.

🚫 Speak to your careers tutor before going on study leave. 
Don’t go on study leave without speaking to your careers tutor or making your application. It’s an important part of your transition plan.

5. Make the Most of Your Opportunities

Highlands College offers a wide range of subjects and pathways designed to help you progress to university, apprenticeships, or employment. From creative industries and business to health, engineering, and digital technologies - there’s something for everyone.

Our sixth form experience is all about helping you build confidence, independence, and real-world skills that prepare you for life after college. 

Apply Today

We’re excited to welcome you to Highlands College!
Make your application online via your chosen course(s) and we look forward to welcoming you in September!

Questions? 

If you're unsure about anything to do with the application process, please contact fulltimeapplications@highlands.ac.uk.