Early Applicants

We aim to enable and inspire all students to reach their unique potential but recognise that many of our students are particularly able or talented in various fields.  Alongside a broad and challenging curriculum and varied range of enrichment opportunities, some of our most academically able students will consider competitive ‘early applicant’ pathways.

What are ‘Early Applicant’ pathways?

Some undergraduate university courses have an earlier application deadline, partly due to their highly competitive nature.

These include all courses at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, as well as most courses for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary medicine/science.

How are these courses different?

  • Earlier application deadline (around 15th Oct)
  • Usually an admissions test
  • Often interviews and/or requirement for written work submission

What does this mean for you as a student at Bishop Stopford Sixth Form?

  •  You need to be even more organised and thinking/planning ahead!
  • Academic performance is important: many of these courses will have high entry requirements e.g. A*AA—hard work needed
  • Super-curricular engagement is also crucial in demonstrating the sincerity and depth of your enthusiasm for a subject

How will we support you at Bishop Stopford Sixth Form?

At Bishop Stopford, we support large numbers of students with successful applications to competitive early applicant courses every year. In the past two years, eleven of our Year 13 students have received offers from Oxford or Cambridge, with many others successfully securing offers for Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary courses.

Here are some examples of the support provided through BSS Sixth Form for you to reach your unique potential:

  • Outstanding teaching by subject specialists
  • Initial advice & guidance sessions from Autumn Y12
  • Group meetings from January Y12
  • Regular mailing list with opportunities & tips
  • Trips to Oxbridge colleges
  • Student-run societies e.g. MEDSOC
  • Access to JSTOR research archives
  • Comprehensive tutorial sessions
  • Visiting speakers and alumni mentors
  • Personal Statement writing sessions
  • Interview preparation sessions, online & in-person, including with specialist professionals
  • Admissions test guidance sessions & resources
  • Regular 1:1s in Y13
  • Dedicated Sixth Form team and point of contact— Mrs Hainsworth (rhainsworth@bishopstopford.com)

What can I expect as an Early Applicant during my time at BSS Sixth Form?