The Student Room Group

Occupational Therapy Southampton rejection

Hello, I'm an international student who is aiming for occupational therapy. I did think the interview went well. However, the University of Southampton has rejected me .I do think my grades meet the requirements. So I'm left wondering why I was rejected.

Reply 1

It's understandable to feel disappointed and confused after a university rejection, especially when you believe you met the academic requirements. Here’s some advice to help you process this and move forward:
1. Consider Other Factors in the Admission Process

Universities look beyond just grades; they also assess personal statements, interview performance, work experience, and references.

Even if your interview felt good, the competition for occupational therapy programs is tough, and other applicants may have had stronger applications overall.

2. Request Feedback from the University

Email the admissions office politely asking for feedback on why your application was unsuccessful.

Understanding their reasoning can help you improve for future applications.

3. Explore Other University Options

If Southampton was your top choice, look at similar programs at other universities that may still have open spots.

Consider applying through UCAS Extra or Clearing (if applicable).

4. Strengthen Your Application for the Future

If reapplying, reflect on what could be improved—gain more work experience, refine your personal statement, or seek interview coaching.

If grades were not the issue, perhaps enhancing your extracurricular involvement in healthcare-related activities could boost your application.

5. Stay Positive and Keep Moving Forward

Rejection doesn’t define your abilities or future success. Many successful occupational therapists have faced setbacks before achieving their goals.

Keep pushing forward with resilience and determination—your path to becoming an OT is still very much possible.

Would you like help with drafting an email to request feedback or refining your personal statement for future applications?
Original post by Narcud
Hello, I'm an international student who is aiming for occupational therapy. I did think the interview went well. However, the University of Southampton has rejected me .I do think my grades meet the requirements. So I'm left wondering why I was rejected.

Call or email admissions and ask for feedback.
Original post by Narcud
Hello, I'm an international student who is aiming for occupational therapy. I did think the interview went well. However, the University of Southampton has rejected me .I do think my grades meet the requirements. So I'm left wondering why I was rejected.

Dear Narcud Im really sorry to hear about the rejection is completely understandable to feel disappointed, especially when your grades met the requirements. Please don’t let this discourage you! You have worked so hard, and I truly believe in your potential.

Keep giving your best in your final exams, and who knows? There’s still a chance to get into Southampton through Clearing in August. No matter what happens, I know you have a bright future ahead, and I really hope to see you next year. Stay positive and keep pushing forward!

Wishing you all the best,
Junfan, student ambassador

Reply 4

Original post by Uni of Southampton Students
Dear Narcud Im really sorry to hear about the rejection is completely understandable to feel disappointed, especially when your grades met the requirements. Please don’t let this discourage you! You have worked so hard, and I truly believe in your potential.
Keep giving your best in your final exams, and who knows? There’s still a chance to get into Southampton through Clearing in August. No matter what happens, I know you have a bright future ahead, and I really hope to see you next year. Stay positive and keep pushing forward!
Wishing you all the best,
Junfan, student ambassador


Really do appreciate your support as I really wanted to get in Southampton .However, I do think maybe god has led me down another path .Hope for the clearing tho .As I do have a conditional offer from UWE

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