[Must-Read Before University] How to Equip Yourself in Your Final Year to Successfully Apply for Your Dream University

Entering university is a major milestone in life.  
However, many students often overlook the fact that the final year before applying to university is actually a critical golden period. Early preparation not only helps reduce the pressure during the application process but also significantly boosts your competitiveness, allowing you to secure a place in your desired program and institution.

During the university application process, there are two key areas that require particular attention to writing skills and content preparation:

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Part 1: Explaining Underperformance

If a student’s grades do not meet the university's admission requirements or are otherwise less than ideal, most universities provide a space for applicants to explain the circumstances. In this section, students are encouraged to reflect honestly on the reasons behind their academic performance. More importantly, they should demonstrate a strong sense of determination and present a clear, actionable plan for improvement.

Students can propose specific and feasible strategies, such as enhancing study methods in certain subjects or participating in additional academic support programs, to convince universities of their ability to make significant progress in future studies.

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Part 2: Providing Additional Personal Information

Many university application forms include an "Optional Additional Information" section, where students can share aspects of their personal strengths or achievements that may not be fully reflected in the standard application. Unfortunately, many students mistakenly think that because it is optional, it is unnecessary. Skipping this section is truly a missed opportunity.

In fact, this section is a crucial chance to showcase your advantages. Students can highlight how they have prepared for their intended program — for example, by taking advanced courses or conducting independent research. They can also explain why they are a strong fit for the program and outline their goals and aspirations after graduation.

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The Importance of Early Preparation

Choosing the right academic mentor or tutor is equally important. Beyond daily coursework support, an experienced tutor can guide students in organizing their personal background, preparing strong supplemental materials, and enhancing their self-reflection and expression skills — all of which significantly increase the chances of admission success.

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