Prestigious university = Good future firm offer?
Hi,
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
Reply 1
Hi!
The short answer is that while a university's 'popularity' or reputation can sometimes play a role, what matters most is you, the grades you achieve, the experience you gain, and how you make the most of the opportunities available.
Many successful solicitors and barristers come from various universities, not just the Russell Group. Law firms are increasingly moving towards more inclusive recruitment practices, looking at your skills, experiences, and commitment to law rather than just where you studied. Things like getting good results, joining mooting or debating, volunteering, networking, and participating in vacation schemes or internships all make a huge difference.
As for the universities you've mentioned, all can be good choices if you put the work in and use the opportunities they give you. What's essential is choosing somewhere you'll feel supported, motivated, and able to succeed.
From my experience at The University of Law, I can honestly say the support and opportunities here make a huge difference. ULaw has fantastic links with a wide range of firms and chambers, and there are always careers events and networking opportunities to get involved in. The teaching is practice-focused, so you feel like you're learning skills you'll use in your future career. Plus, the employment team is there from day one, even after you graduate, which is reassuring. That ongoing support has been one of the most valuable parts of my degree and has given me absolute confidence about my future in law.
I recommend you look at our website and check out our open days to get a feel for our university and teaching style before you make any decisions!
So, I would advise focusing on finding a university where you'll get the support you need, and where you can thrive academically and personally. That will make the most significant difference when applying to firms later.
I hope this helps, and best of luck with your applications!
– Jess 😊
University of Law Student Ambassador
First Class Law Graduate & MSc Legal Technology Student
The short answer is that while a university's 'popularity' or reputation can sometimes play a role, what matters most is you, the grades you achieve, the experience you gain, and how you make the most of the opportunities available.
Many successful solicitors and barristers come from various universities, not just the Russell Group. Law firms are increasingly moving towards more inclusive recruitment practices, looking at your skills, experiences, and commitment to law rather than just where you studied. Things like getting good results, joining mooting or debating, volunteering, networking, and participating in vacation schemes or internships all make a huge difference.
As for the universities you've mentioned, all can be good choices if you put the work in and use the opportunities they give you. What's essential is choosing somewhere you'll feel supported, motivated, and able to succeed.
From my experience at The University of Law, I can honestly say the support and opportunities here make a huge difference. ULaw has fantastic links with a wide range of firms and chambers, and there are always careers events and networking opportunities to get involved in. The teaching is practice-focused, so you feel like you're learning skills you'll use in your future career. Plus, the employment team is there from day one, even after you graduate, which is reassuring. That ongoing support has been one of the most valuable parts of my degree and has given me absolute confidence about my future in law.
I recommend you look at our website and check out our open days to get a feel for our university and teaching style before you make any decisions!
So, I would advise focusing on finding a university where you'll get the support you need, and where you can thrive academically and personally. That will make the most significant difference when applying to firms later.
I hope this helps, and best of luck with your applications!
– Jess 😊
University of Law Student Ambassador
First Class Law Graduate & MSc Legal Technology Student
Reply 2
Thank you so much!
Reply 3
Original post
by AnonymousHi,
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
What are your A-level predictions? What grades did you get at GCSE?
Reply 4
Original post
by ageshallnotWhat are your A-level predictions? What grades did you get at GCSE?
I got
English lit 7
English language 7
Maths 6
Biology 6
Chemistry 5
Physics 5
French 6
History 6
Business 6
A level - predicted AAB
(I've had more time to dedicate to my studies and hope to bring the B to an A as well)
Reply 5
Original post
by AnonymousI got
English lit 7
English language 7
Maths 6
Biology 6
Chemistry 5
Physics 5
French 6
History 6
Business 6
A level - predicted AAB
(I've had more time to dedicate to my studies and hope to bring the B to an A as well)
English lit 7
English language 7
Maths 6
Biology 6
Chemistry 5
Physics 5
French 6
History 6
Business 6
A level - predicted AAB
(I've had more time to dedicate to my studies and hope to bring the B to an A as well)
AAA would certainly help. Have you checked all the unis in and around London to see whether you meet their requirements? Or are you willing to go further afield?
Reply 6
Original post
by ageshallnotAAA would certainly help. Have you checked all the unis in and around London to see whether you meet their requirements? Or are you willing to go further afield?
I have been looking into the University of Birmingham as well. Also, I am also going to be applying to solicitor degree apprenticeships just to keep my options open
Reply 7
Original post
by AnonymousI have been looking into the University of Birmingham as well. Also, I am also going to be applying to solicitor degree apprenticeships just to keep my options open
What's your rationale for choosing universities?
Reply 8
Original post
by AnonymousHi,
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
Reply 9
21
Original post
by AnonymousHi,
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
If you have your mind set on becoming a solicitor, and your want to work for a leading firm, then the calibre of the university you attend will matter. Though that is only one factor to consider. Your grades at A level and for your degree will also matter, most of all.
Royal Holloway is a nice university, very beautiful and leafy.
(edited 1 month ago)
Reply 10
Original post
by AnonymousI got
English lit 7
English language 7
Maths 6
Biology 6
Chemistry 5
Physics 5
French 6
History 6
Business 6
A level - predicted AAB
(I've had more time to dedicate to my studies and hope to bring the B to an A as well)
English lit 7
English language 7
Maths 6
Biology 6
Chemistry 5
Physics 5
French 6
History 6
Business 6
A level - predicted AAB
(I've had more time to dedicate to my studies and hope to bring the B to an A as well)
Hi there,
These are not a bad set of grades remotely, especially given the context. Don't discount your responsibilities at the time, they are not excuses but reasons and can be included in your application as extenuating circumstances. It shows resilience!
Also, I would recommend applying to at least 1 or more of your dream universities because why not take the chance if it is there. Hopefully you can bring your predicted grades up but even afterwards, focus on getting the best grades during your actual A-level exams as Clearing is always a good backup.
Now regarding university choices, the university you go to is important but it also depends on what you want to study. Different universities have different specialities. Of course Oxbridge has the name, but UCL has a focus on the sciences, Kings on Politics, LSE on Economics. It just depends on what you are interested in, what style of teaching you want and what you want to learn.
For example, SOAS is a universities that teaches humanities subjects and is know as the 'World's University' because of our specialisation in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Our focus is on teaching through a lens of decolonisation. We have modules not available at other universities like Legal Systems of Asia and Africa I on our LLB course, and the point of this is that when you get a degree at SOAS, you learn beyond just the UK but getting a better understanding of the world.
SOAS is also a smaller university with around 5,000 - 6,000 students enrolled. We have smaller class sizes and a one-site campus. This gives a homier feel; you recognise more people around campus, and your teachers recognise you so you are able to better engage in class because they won't let you blend into the background. We are also based in Bloomsbury which is in the university hub of Central London, with Oxford Street and the British Museum just next to us.
I would highly recommend you consider what kind of university you want to go to (or apprenticeship you want to start):
•
Do you want to be a full-time student?
•
Do you want to study in London or outside of London?
•
Do you want to be at an on-campus university or a university in the middle of a city?
•
Do you want to go to a university that specialises?
All of these are good things to consider. I would also recommend that you speak to current undergraduates to get a better idea of each university because the websites only tell you so much. You can speak to SOAS students on Unibuddies. Other universities will have similar platforms, just search 'chat me a student at X university'.
I hope this helps - good luck!
Reply 11
Original post
by SOAS Rep MarjaanHi there,
These are not a bad set of grades remotely, especially given the context. Don't discount your responsibilities at the time, they are not excuses but reasons and can be included in your application as extenuating circumstances. It shows resilience!
Also, I would recommend applying to at least 1 or more of your dream universities because why not take the chance if it is there. Hopefully you can bring your predicted grades up but even afterwards, focus on getting the best grades during your actual A-level exams as Clearing is always a good backup.
Now regarding university choices, the university you go to is important but it also depends on what you want to study. Different universities have different specialities. Of course Oxbridge has the name, but UCL has a focus on the sciences, Kings on Politics, LSE on Economics. It just depends on what you are interested in, what style of teaching you want and what you want to learn.
For example, SOAS is a universities that teaches humanities subjects and is know as the 'World's University' because of our specialisation in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Our focus is on teaching through a lens of decolonisation. We have modules not available at other universities like Legal Systems of Asia and Africa I on our LLB course, and the point of this is that when you get a degree at SOAS, you learn beyond just the UK but getting a better understanding of the world.
SOAS is also a smaller university with around 5,000 - 6,000 students enrolled. We have smaller class sizes and a one-site campus. This gives a homier feel; you recognise more people around campus, and your teachers recognise you so you are able to better engage in class because they won't let you blend into the background. We are also based in Bloomsbury which is in the university hub of Central London, with Oxford Street and the British Museum just next to us.
I would highly recommend you consider what kind of university you want to go to (or apprenticeship you want to start):
All of these are good things to consider. I would also recommend that you speak to current undergraduates to get a better idea of each university because the websites only tell you so much. You can speak to SOAS students on Unibuddies. Other universities will have similar platforms, just search 'chat me a student at X university'.
I hope this helps - good luck!
These are not a bad set of grades remotely, especially given the context. Don't discount your responsibilities at the time, they are not excuses but reasons and can be included in your application as extenuating circumstances. It shows resilience!
Also, I would recommend applying to at least 1 or more of your dream universities because why not take the chance if it is there. Hopefully you can bring your predicted grades up but even afterwards, focus on getting the best grades during your actual A-level exams as Clearing is always a good backup.
Now regarding university choices, the university you go to is important but it also depends on what you want to study. Different universities have different specialities. Of course Oxbridge has the name, but UCL has a focus on the sciences, Kings on Politics, LSE on Economics. It just depends on what you are interested in, what style of teaching you want and what you want to learn.
For example, SOAS is a universities that teaches humanities subjects and is know as the 'World's University' because of our specialisation in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Our focus is on teaching through a lens of decolonisation. We have modules not available at other universities like Legal Systems of Asia and Africa I on our LLB course, and the point of this is that when you get a degree at SOAS, you learn beyond just the UK but getting a better understanding of the world.
SOAS is also a smaller university with around 5,000 - 6,000 students enrolled. We have smaller class sizes and a one-site campus. This gives a homier feel; you recognise more people around campus, and your teachers recognise you so you are able to better engage in class because they won't let you blend into the background. We are also based in Bloomsbury which is in the university hub of Central London, with Oxford Street and the British Museum just next to us.
I would highly recommend you consider what kind of university you want to go to (or apprenticeship you want to start):
•
Do you want to be a full-time student?
•
Do you want to study in London or outside of London?
•
Do you want to be at an on-campus university or a university in the middle of a city?
•
Do you want to go to a university that specialises?
All of these are good things to consider. I would also recommend that you speak to current undergraduates to get a better idea of each university because the websites only tell you so much. You can speak to SOAS students on Unibuddies. Other universities will have similar platforms, just search 'chat me a student at X university'.
I hope this helps - good luck!
SOAS Law graduates leave SOAS as civic minded and critically engaged individuals who can effectively contribute to their communities and societies. With a thorough understanding of the legal dimensions underlying many of our global challenges today, our Law students are valued by employers due to their analytical skills, specialist knowledge, and global perspective
Recent graduates have been hired by:
•
Allen & Overy
•
Baker McKenzie
•
BLM Law
•
BloombergNEF
•
British Medical Association
•
Clifford Chance
•
DAC Beachcroft LLP
•
Department for Work and Pensions
•
EY
•
Gibson Young Solicitors
•
HM Treasury
•
Latham & Watkins
•
Legal Cheek
•
Linklaters
•
Lloyds Banking Group
•
PwC LLP
•
Simpson Millar Solicitors
•
Slaughter and May
•
The Economist
•
Travers Smith
•
United Nations
•
Vodafone
•
World Cancer Research Fund
Also, you can do a Foundation Year at SOAS with only CCC grades and be assured a place on the 3 year LLB degree. 🙂 That's why, it is one of my choices alongside Oxford, LSE, UCL and KCL.
Original post
by AnonymousHi,
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
I am currently looking into universities to study law at (I am a year 13 student right now) and I wanted to ask if the popularity of the university matters when applying for firms in the future.
Unfortunately, during my GCSEs I did not score highly since my sister was born and I had to look after her while my parents worked (not the best excuse I know), but I wanted to ask if universities such as University of Westminister, Royal Holloway or Hertfordshire would be a good choice?
Thanks!
Hi there,
Here at Royal Holloway, we have a great Law department with a range of courses that combine theory with practical experience like mooting and placements. Working hard, getting involved in opportunities, and building experience will put you in a strong position for future applications. We'd recommend joining one of our upcoming events to find out more about studying Law at Royal Holloway and to meet our staff and students.
Hope this helps and good luck 🙂 if you have any other questions, please get in touch.
Best wishes,
Royal Holloway, University of London Official Rep
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