One question that I get asked a lot is the role of extracurricular activities when applying to universities in Europe. After all, spend any time on r/chanceme, and you soon see that the amount of space spent describing extracurricular activities easily exceeds just about everything else combined. Wouldn’t it make sense for foreign universities to put a similar emphasis on extracurriculars?
Well, they don’t.
In fact, there’s not even a dedicated spot on the UCAS application for extracurricular activities. Seriously, here’s a copy of the UCAS application that they offer to those with ‘limited internet access,’ which UCAS takes to mean either those in developing countries or prisoners (really great look there, UCAS). While there is a spot for employment, it is incredibly spartan, with only 35 characters provided for a description.
This means two things for Americans who are looking to go abroad.
First, if you are having to choose between your extracurricular activities and your grades, then you should probably ditch the extracurricular activities. Every case is unique, and in some rare cases, they can actually help (see below). However, if you’re only doing something because you think it will ‘look good’ on your application, then forget it.
Feel free to use this if you’re looking for reason #5,925 to convince your parents that the NSHSS is complete BS.
Second, if you do have great extracurriculars, you’ll want to find a way to work them into your application. Luckily, you get a space to do so in your personal statement.
For UCAS applications (and tomorrow I’ll post why you absolutely should not use the Common App for UK admissions, except in one very specific instance), you get 4,000 characters, including spaces, to make your case. That comes out to about 600-750 words, depending on how Latinate you’re feeling. You only have to write one for all five programs, but through it you should look to demonstrate your passion for a subject.
Having pursued quality extracurricular activities that relate to your chosen field is a great way to do that.
If you are applying for STEM, mention your involvement in Science Olympiad.
If you’re leaning towards political science, talk up your Student Council experience.
If you want to study business, describe your internships.
Above all else, you’ll want to make sure that these are high-quality activities; you don’t want to be listing. Even being a member of a relevant club can be helpful. As long as they are relevant, they can help, but not having them won’t hurt.
I know, it’s the ‘test-optional’ argument all over again, but this time, as long as you can display your passion for the field otherwise, it’s actually legitimate.
You’ve got to be sure that they are relevant, however. That can be a harder sell when it comes to certain sports. That said, there are still ways to register your interest in a university while leveraging your love of a given sport, but these tend to be highly situational.
Finally, don’t forget small talk. As an international applicant, you’ll be talking a lot on the phone, Skype, and Zoom. Whether it is simply building a relationship with an admissions officer or an interview, those first few seconds can let you leave a great impression. Just be sure to keep the conversation flowing; do enough to be charming, but not enough to be obnoxious.