Making grade for universities

Achieving the right grades is no longer enough to impress universities, as students also need passion and good written English, a survey has revealed.

A poll of university admissions officers reveals many are looking for extra qualities that make an applicant stand out.

It found that more than nine in ten (93 per cent) are looking for evidence of a passion for a chosen subject, in addition to academic qualifications, while the same proportion want candidates with good written English.

Some 88 per cent say they are looking for evidence of a positive attitude towards study, the poll, conducted by ACS International Schools, found.