Before making what could be one of the most important decisions in your life you need to research, investigate and think about the options available to you.

Print your own copy of the CourseFinder Action Plan to help you decide what and where.

Make sure that you consult up-to-date information which you will find at career centres and in school, college and local libraries. Always check through the latest prospectuses and visit any places you are considering. Here's our guide.

Choosing a course — Check out the course details with these guides

Choosing a place — They're not all the same; find somewhere that suits you

Taking a year off — Make the most of your GAP year

Graduate careers — Your graduation. A positive career move?

CD and Web resources — Do your initial research without leaving your chair

Finance — Plan ahead and keep within budget

Deadlines — Keep to schedule, don't lose out through being late

The UCAS application process — This is the critical form. Find out how to register and fill it in

Your personal statement — Selling yourself to the university

Applying for Art and Design courses — Route A & B, portfolios, keep on top

The application process — What happens to you and your application

What if your plans change — Even the best laid plans can come undone