Honest answers to the questions we hear most.
We get the same questions on most initial calls - about how we work, how we charge, and what realistic outcomes look like. Here are the honest answers, in one place.
Getting started.
What to expect when you first reach out and how an initial conversation works.
How do consultations work?
We offer free 30-minute consultations, usually held by video call or phone. There's no pressure and no pitch - it's a chance for us to understand your background and goals, and for you to ask anything you want about how we work.
Is the first consultation really free?
Yes. We don't charge for the initial conversation and we don't follow up with hard sales emails. If we don't think we're the right team for you, we'll say so honestly.
When is the best time to start?
It depends on your application timeline. For most students, the earlier the better - particularly for personal statement coaching, test preparation, and US applications. We'll be honest on the initial consultation about whether there's enough time to do meaningful work together.
Do you work with students based outside the UK?
Yes. Although we're a UK-based consultancy, we work with students from a range of countries. Most of our work happens online - by video call, email, and WhatsApp - so location isn't usually a barrier.
How we work.
Our process, principles, and the way we communicate during a programme.
What does a typical programme look like?
Programmes are personalised, but most start with a planning conversation, followed by regular working sessions through the application cycle. Sessions cover personal statement drafting, interview practice, test preparation, and other support as needed.
Will you write my personal statement?
No. We coach, restructure, and give honest feedback through several drafting rounds, but the words on the page are always yours. Authentic, well-written personal statements consistently outperform ghostwritten ones in admissions.
How often will we be in touch?
It depends on the stage of your application and the support you've taken on. During busy periods, students typically have a session every one to two weeks, with ongoing email and WhatsApp support between sessions.
Who will I actually work with?
You'll have a consistent point of contact throughout your programme. We'll never hand you between unfamiliar names mid-cycle, and the person you speak with on the initial consultation is the person you'll continue working with.
Fees and commitment.
How we charge, what's included, and how flexible the engagement is.
How much does it cost?
Fees depend on the support you need and the length of the programme. We agree the scope and a clear fee structure during the initial consultation - there are no hidden costs, package upsells, or success bonuses.
Do you take a percentage of any scholarships I win?
No. Our fees are flat and agreed in advance. We never take a percentage of scholarships or financial aid. We believe that's the only way to keep scholarship advice genuinely honest.
Do I have to commit to a fixed number of sessions?
No. We agree a programme together and you can pause or adjust as your circumstances and timeline change. We'll always discuss any change before it affects you.
Do you offer support for families who can't afford the full fee?
Where we can, yes. If cost is a barrier, please mention it on the contact form or during the consultation - we'll do our best to be flexible where it's appropriate.
Universities and outcomes.
How we approach university choice and how we think about results.
Which universities do you support applications to?
We support applications to a wide range of leading UK and international universities, including selective programmes across the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe and Asia. We'll discuss your specific shortlist during the initial consultation.
Do you guarantee admission to a particular university?
No - and we'd be cautious of any consultancy that does. Admissions decisions are made by universities, not by consultants. What we can guarantee is honest guidance, careful work, and professional standards applied to every part of your application.
What kinds of students do you usually work with?
We work with motivated students preparing for competitive UK and international university applications. That includes students applying for selective courses, students applying internationally for the first time, and reapplicants approaching the cycle with a clearer plan.
Can you help with postgraduate applications?
Yes, we support undergraduate and postgraduate applications, including taught Masters programmes and selected research applications. We'll confirm during the consultation whether your specific case is a good fit.
Visa and post-offer support.
What happens after you receive an offer and start preparing to study.
Do you help with student visa applications?
Yes - we offer dedicated visa guidance for the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and other common destinations. We help you understand the requirements, prepare your documentation, and avoid the small errors that can cause delays.
What happens after I accept an offer?
Where you've taken visa or arrival support, we continue working with you through visa documentation, accommodation planning, financial preparation, and what to expect when you arrive. The relationship doesn't end at the offer letter.
Do you give financial or immigration advice?
No. We provide guidance on student visa applications and signpost reliable, official sources for immigration and financial matters. For regulated advice, we always recommend speaking with a qualified solicitor, financial adviser, or registered immigration practitioner.
The easiest place to ask is on a free consultation.
A 30-minute conversation, no commitment. Bring whatever questions you have - about your situation, our process, or anything else.