Episode 46 – Results day takeaways & 2026 uni application tips

In this episode, we look back at clearing and results day in 2025 and ahead to the 2026 application cycle – exploring what’s changed, what students can learn from this year’s trends, and how to make stronger choices for next year.

James Seymour, an experienced university marketing and recruitment director, joins Year 13 students Chloe and Tami, and current uni student Reece to unpack the headlines from results day and what they mean for future applicants. Together, they discuss what’s different about university admissions this year, why the “top” universities aren’t always the best fit, and how students can make confident, informed decisions about their next steps.

We’ll cover:

• What’s changed in results day 2025 that matters for 2026 applicants
• Why some universities recruited more students this year – and what that means
• How to decide which course and university are the right fit
• The biggest mistakes students make when applying, and how to avoid them
• Whether university is still “worth it” with higher costs and fees
• One practical thing students can start doing now to boost their applications

If you’re thinking about university in 2026, this episode offers real insight into what’s changing in admissions – and how you can prepare to stand out.

Featuring:

James Seymour, experienced university marketing and recruitment director

Chloe Bonner, Year 13 student studying Politics, History and Business

Tami Okubote, Year 13 student studying Computer Science, Maths and Physics

Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources:

UniTasterDays.com

The Students' Guide to University Brochure

The Parents’ Guide to University Brochure

The Teachers' Guide to University Brochure

University event incentive platform

University Jargon Buster

University Subject Guide Videos

The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.