Supercurriculars are academic activities that go beyond the classroom, broadening your knowledge beyond the school curriculum. They are an excellent way to stand out when making applications to competitive universities or courses, as they demonstrate a genuine passion for a subject as well as a commitment to learning. Some people may feel uneasy about their supercurriculars, believing that they may not have enough; however, the good news is that a vast number of opportunities are available online! So, here is my pick of the top 10 supercurriculars you can try out from anywhere.

1. edX MOOC's

   edX is an open online course provider founded by Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). edX offers a wide range of both free and paid courses that you can complete at your own pace. Although most courses are available to participate in for free, certificates do require a fee to receive, despite this, evidence of the completion of this supercurricular can be provided though a screenshot of your screen at the end for your course.

2. Springpod Virtual Work Exerience

   Springpod is a platform that offers virtual work experience with top employers as well as Universities. Springpod hosts interactive learning programmes that include projects, videos, live webinars and Q&A sessions with industry professionals, allowing individuals to explore different careers. Upon completing your programme you receive a certificate that does not only help with your university application but also your CV.

3. Leaf Courses

   Leaf is a non-profit organisation that offers discussion-based online courses for exceptional teenagers. Leaf was founded with the intention of helping young people use their knowledge to make a positive impact. Leaf runs five-week, Oxbridge-style programmes on the following topics: AI ethics, biology and philosophy. The courses are mostly free, and completing one can lead to a fellowship where students develop their own real-world projects.

4. Start a Blog/Vlog

   Starting a blog or vlog is a great way to share your interests and ideas while exploring a subject in depth and share your ideas with others. You can write about topics you’re passionate about, review books or courses, or discuss current issues in your field of interest. This demonstrates initiative, creativity and critical thinking. Because universities typically value students who go beyond the classroom, and a blog or vlog is a tangible way to show your commitment and interest.

5. Listen to Audiobooks or Podcasts/ read articles

   Listening to audiobooks and podcasts is a great supercurricular because it helps you explore subjects in more depth and remain up to date with new ideas. For university applications, it shows that you’re curious and self-motivated. You can reflect on what you’ve learned, discuss it in personal statements or interviews, and connect it to your academic interests. Popular options include subject-specific podcasts or non-fiction audiobooks that deepen your understanding.



6. Complete free courses at the Open University

   The Open University’s OpenLearn platform offers thousands of free online courses across a wide range of subjects. Completing these courses shows independent learning and dedication, which universities value. You can explore topics in depth, gain certificates, and discuss what you’ve learned in applications or interviews.

7. Join Online Academic Competitions

   Participating in online competitions, such as math challenges, coding contests, essay competitions, or science Olympiads, is a fantastic way to apply your knowledge in a real-world context. Success in these challenges shows universities that you’re proactive, skilled, and passionate about your subject. Many competitions also offer certificates or rankings you can mention in your application.

8. Attend Free Online Lectures and Webinars

   Universities often host free online lectures or webinars on a wide range of subjects. Joining these events demonstrates curiosity and initiative, and you can reference them in your applications to show awareness ofs current debates and developments in your field.

9. Participate in Research projects

   Many universities and organisations offer online research opportunities for students. For example, platforms like Zooniverse or student-led projects allow you to contribute to real scientific research. Participating shows universities that you can think critically, can follow complex instructions and engage in genuine inquiry beyond school.

10. Online mentoring & tutoring

    Offer tutoring or mentoring to younger students online in subjects you excel at. This shows leadership, communication, and mastery of your subject, and it’s something tangible you can reference in university & Job applications.

11. Bonus!!!

    The Universities of Oxford and Cambridge both offer their own suggestions on super-curricular activities you can do based on your subject of choice. These can be found at Resourses for the University of Oxford and Resourses for the University of Cambridge