Only a small number of graduates ‘drop out’ in the first year of their courses, but a large proportion of those who do, do so because of the place rather than the course.

The choice of institution can sometimes comedown to town or countryside i.e. do you want to look out on green fields in the morning or are concrete blocks more your style! Do you want to live in an out of town campus with all amenities provided or would you rather be in the thick of things in a town centre? Do you want a vibrant nightlife or a quiet life? These are very fundamental questions to ask yourself, preferably before you start the course!

Remember, some universities are on different sites. Manchester Metropolitan has a site in Crewe, as well as in Manchester. The location can make a big difference to your overall experience, so check this out. One factor you may wish to consider is the availability of low cost accommodation and the chance to get part-time employment. Recent estimates suggest that as many as half of Britain’s full-time students take paid work during term-time.