Application and selection: how to manage student recruitment

A clear and transparent application and selection process helps make sure your training reaches the right people and runs smoothly from the start.

Below is guidance on what to include when advertising your course and how to manage applications fairly and efficiently.

What information should you share?

Before people apply, they need to understand what the course offers. Make sure your publicity materials (e.g. posters, social media posts, WhatsApp messages) include the following:

• Course duration – How long does it run for? Is it full-time or part-time? Are there any important dates to note (e.g. start and end date, breaks)?
• Focus and content – What will the course cover? What kinds of skills will students learn? Who is it designed for (e.g. age group, background, interests)?
• Certification – Will students get a certificate at the end? Is it accredited?
• Support – Will any support be provided, such as:
  • Stipend – Money to help cover personal costs during the course
  • Transport – Help with travel costs or organised transport
  • Meals – Will food or refreshments be provided during sessions?

You should also let people know what expectations you have of them – such as attendance, participation, or work outside class.

How should people apply?

Make the application process as simple and accessible as possible. You can:

• Share a link to an online application form (e.g. Google Form)
• Provide contact details for people who need help filling it in
• Include a deadline and information on what happens next

You may want to collect the following information in your form:

• Name, age, and contact details
• Educational background or current occupation
• Why they’re interested in the course
• Any relevant experience (if required)
• Availability during the course period

Make sure you also include a link to your student database (e.g. a Google Sheet), where you can track applications, notes, and decisions.

How will you select students?

Be clear about your selection process, including:

• How many places are available
• Whether you’re prioritising any particular groups (e.g. local youth, women, unemployed people)
• What criteria you’ll use to choose (e.g. motivation, availability, previous experience)

Selection can be based on the application form alone, or you might include interviews or practical tests, depending on your course.

Once you’ve chosen your participants, inform everyone of the results – and thank those who weren’t selected. Keeping the process fair and well-organised builds trust in your programme and sets the tone for a strong start to the course.