Do you agree that there are too many unconditional offers given out?
Yeah, I mean I got 3 unconditional if firmed for this years UCAS cycle - and almost all of my friends got at least one. It sort of takes the value out of an offer. It's great when you are really nervous about exams, but it definitely does demotivate you.
Do you think that unconditional offers given in exchange for being firmed are a form of bribery?
Of course! I know personally of 3 people in my social circle this year who have taken unconditionals to universities that weren't their first choice - just because they were worried about exams and wanted to get rid of the stress. I totally get that, but sometimes they could go somewhere statistically better or that they preferred.
Should we change the university application system altogether and wait until students have their confirmed A-level grades before applications even begin?
I actually think this would be a great idea. It would stop the anxiety, and ensure you apply for places you actually know you've got a shot at. More of the focus would go into the quality of your application, over your grades if you're all officially of the standard to get a place, which might be better. Plus, I can't imagine how horrible it would be not getting into your firm and insurance. I don't know how it would actually, logistically, work.
I think that unconditionals should be given out in exceptional circumstances - where the student has surpassed what is expected of them and proven that they definitely deserve a place, and that they definitely want them at their university. I think these should be given out after interviews, they should be on a personal and holistic basis. How can a university feel so confident about a student without meeting them, especially since so many lie in their applications and personal statements? I feel like they've really lost their value. The best thing to do, to get unis to attract students would be to give lower offers over unconditionals. There is still a measure of academic achievement needed, but the faith that the student is wanted so much at the university that there is some leeway. I had 3 unconditional if firmed, but high (AAA) entry requirements if not. I decided not to take any of them, so I now I have some tough goals to meet. It seems unfair that someone could get into a course with DDD that I wouldn't with AAB.