The key higher education facts for parents and supporters helping a student through their university application journey. Featuring editorial from over 80 expert practitioners.

The Parents’ Guide to University 2026 will help you support the young people in your life to make an informed choice about university. It includes articles to guide them in deciding whether university is right for them, what they should study, and where they should study it.

Contributions have been provided by over 80 university representatives from across the UK, along with expert voices from outside the sector, such as educator and TV personality Baasit Siddiqui. The guide is supported by HELOA, a membership group for university advisers.

Parents’ Guide to University 2026

Valuing Careers

  • Individuals: Career development can support individuals throughout their education and career; facilitating positive transitions, building career management skills and fostering career wellbeing.
  • The economy: Career development can support the economy by improving the efficiency of the labour market and promoting effective skills/knowledge development. 
  • Society: Career development can benefit society by promoting social justice and equity in education and work for all members of the community.

do you need advice

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like to arrange a careers interview or require further information. Mrs S Beeton, Head of Careers sbeeton@sphs.uk.com