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Admission Elements

How is University Different From High School?

Updated: May 10

You might be anxious about how your university will be different from high school. However, knowing what to expect at university, as discussed below, will make your transition easier and your expectations realistic.


school and university are two parts of the puzzle
Difference between high school and university

Attendance

In high school, attendance is compulsory. You are marked late for coming late and expected to stay in school during school hours. However, attendance is usually not taken in university but attending classes indicates academic success. You can stay on the university campus as long as you want.


Timetable

Your high school timings and timetable are more or less fixed, with little freedom to choose your courses. Your classes and timetable in university depend on the courses you take. You can choose some subjects and learn about topics you enjoy.


Academics

The academic workload can be more rigorous and challenging at university than in high school. You study the course material with personal attention from the professors than high school teachers. However, professors at university help you if you reach out to them.


Assignments and Exams

Assignments in high school are straightforward, and exams are based on what the teacher has taught in class. Teachers often give reminders for upcoming assignments.


Assignments and exams in university encourage independent learning, critical thinking and in-depth knowledge of the subject. You are responsible for preparing for class and assignments. Keep up with your coursework throughout the term to help you perform well in your exams.


Class Size

According to a report published in 2019 by the Fraser Institute, “The reported Canadian average secondary school class size of 26.4”. However, according to the article published in 2022 by Maclean’s, the average class size for first and second-year undergraduate students for fall 2019 in Canadian universities ranged from 23.8 students to 127.8 students.


Some students like to study in small groups, while some like to learn in big lecture halls. Hence, understand what setting you prefer and see which university would be a good fit for you.


Support Services

You have support from staff and guidance counsellors in school, who often check in on you. While in university, you seek support services, including student counselling, health and wellness, accessibility, and social and cultural support, as necessary.


Time Management

One of the biggest challenges for most first-year students is time management. One day might be busy, and another is relaxed, making it hard to balance your studies and other activities. Work out a schedule that allows you to focus on both your studies and some time to have fun. Use a calendar or planner to mark out your assignment and exam deadlines.


Freedom and Responsibility

With the newfound freedom on campus, you must balance your academic and social life. Apart from your academics, other activities like meeting people, participation in sports and clubs, family commitments, part-time jobs, or doing your chores can be challenging and hard to keep up with. You will have more freedom in university than in high school, so be responsible and hold yourself accountable.


Finances

While most of your expenses in high school are covered by your parents/guardians, you will manage your finances at university. Create a budget and stick to it for day-to-day expenses like transportation, eating out, entertainment, and school supplies. Be wise while spending.


Sharing

If you are staying in residence, you might share your room with someone you may not know. It might take some time to adjust to each other’s lifestyle. Communicate and resolve any issues with your roommate patiently and considerately.


Strategies for Getting Ready for University

Try to attend orientation sessions organized by the university for incoming first-year students to ease into this new phase and meet your peers. You could also take part in the university’s summer courses to help incoming students improve their learning and prepare for the academic year.


Talk to current students at your university and ask for advice regarding courses and how to be better prepared for university life.


Use your summer break and take responsibility for your day-to-day tasks like laundry and cleaning your room if you have not done it till now.


Make a list of items you might need at university or read our blog, "What Should You Pack for a Dorm?" to settle at campus easily.


Though adjusting to the new environment may take time, use the support and resources at the university, like mental health services, tutoring, academic advisors, and career counsellors, to adapt to the university easily.


Conclusion

As a first-year student in university, you will face difficult or unknown challenges. You might be overwhelmed by adjusting to bigger classes, meeting new people and making new friends, sharing your space with strangers away from home, and maintaining your grades while keeping up with other commitments. The transition to university can be exciting yet challenging for some students. Remember that you are not alone, as other students face similar situations. Though the first few months can be hard to adjust to university life, you will enjoy and cherish this phase once you settle.

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