How to Research a University Before You Apply

Applying to university can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many universities, programs, and countries to choose from, it's tempting to gravitate towards well-known universities or the ones your friends and family recommend .

While these can all be useful starting points, they're only part of the picture. Before you submit an application, it's worth taking the time to research each university more thoroughly. Doing so can help you avoid unpleasant surprises and give you greater confidence that you're choosing a university that's the right fit for you.

Start with the Program, Not the University

It's common to compare universities first, but one of the best places to start is the program itself. Even if two universities offer a degree with the same name, the content can be quite different. One Psychology program may place a stronger emphasis on research methods, while another may focus more on clinical or social psychology. A Business program at one university may offer more opportunities for entrepreneurship, while another may have stronger links with finance or economics.

Take the time to read the program description, course overview, and curriculum. Look at what you'll actually be studying each year rather than relying on the program title alone.

Understand How You'll Be Taught

University isn't just about what you learn, it's also about how you learn. Some universities rely primarily on lectures and written examinations, while others place greater emphasis on seminars, presentations, group work, or practical assignments. In the Netherlands, you may also come across universities that use Problem-Based Learning (PBL), where students take a more active role in their learning through small-group discussions and independent study. However, succeeding in PBL often requires more applied learning and active participation  than the more memorization-based approach some students may be accustomed to. 

Understanding the teaching style can help you decide whether you'll enjoy the learning environment and perform well within it.

Explore Student Life Beyond the Classroom

Your university experience extends far beyond your lectures. Think about what everyday life might look like. Is the university located in a busy city or a smaller student town? Are there clubs, societies, or sports that interest you? How international is the student community?

You don't need to choose the most exciting city, but you need to choose a place where you can see yourself living for the next three or four years.

Look at Practical Considerations

It's easy to become focused on academics and forget about the practical side of university life.

Research questions such as:

• What is the average cost of living?

• How easy is it to travel within the city?

• Are internships included in the program?

• What student support services are available for international students?

These factors may not influence your decision immediately, but they may be a tipping point to choose one university over another.

Hear from Current Students

Universities naturally present themselves in the best possible light, so it's helpful to hear from students who are already studying there.

Many universities have student ambassadors who are happy to answer questions. You can also attend online information sessions, watch campus tours, or explore student-created content on YouTube and other platforms. While every student's experience is different, hearing a range of perspectives can give you a better understanding of daily life at the university.

Attend an Open Day If You Can

If you have the opportunity, visiting a university can be one of the most valuable parts of your research.

Walking around campus, speaking with staff and students, and experiencing the atmosphere in person can tell you things that websites and brochures simply can't. If traveling isn't possible, many universities now offer virtual open days, webinars, and online Q&A sessions that can still provide valuable insights.

Compare Your Options

As you research, it can be helpful to keep notes on each university. Compare factors such as the curriculum, teaching style, student life, location, career opportunities, and practical considerations.

Rather than trying to remember everything, creating a simple comparison table can make it much easier to identify which universities best match your priorities.

Final Thoughts

The more informed you are before you apply, the more confident you'll feel in your decision. Researching a university isn't about finding the one with the highest ranking or the most impressive campus. It's about understanding whether it offers the experience, environment, and opportunities that are right for you.

Researching universities takes time, and knowing what information actually matters can be challenging. At Your Next Step Consultancy, we help students evaluate their options, compare programs, and build a university shortlist based on their individual priorities, so they can apply with confidence.