What is the Difference Between Extra-Curricular and Super-Curricular Activities?

We frequently talk about adding "super-curriculars" to your application. But what does this really mean? And why do we not discuss "extra-curriculars" nearly as much?

This article will take you through a definition of each term, some examples of each, and why you would use either one in support of your university application.

Are Extra-Curriculars or Super-Curriculars Better for My University Application?

It ultimately depends on what kind of application you are making and to where. In broad brush terms, UK universities vastly prefer super-curriculars, whereas US university applications are comparatively more interested in extra-curricular activities.

Since we are discussing Oxbridge and UK universities here, let’s delve a bit further into their preference for super-curriculars. For more information on US universities and how they consider extra- and super-curriculars, visit our sister team at A-List Education.

Top UK Universities, such as Oxford and Cambridge but also across the board, only receive a short personal statement from their applicants (4,000 characters) before either shortlisting for interview or directly making offers. This means they have very little opportunity to get to know you as a student.

Note here that they are not really trying to learn about you as a person. Your personal academic goals, unique style of thinking, and topics of interest; absolutely. But your personal hobbies, how you spend your private time, and popular culture likes and dislikes; not so much.

Super-curriculars are therefore the perfect chance to show universities that you thrive as an academic outside of the classroom, that you are motivated and passionate for your subject, and that you have gained extra skills knowledge, or experiences that give you an edge over competing applicants.

Not only do they show your academic development, but they do so in a way that gives a glimpse into your personal interests within your proposed area of study. When it comes to the top UK institutions, this is their idea of getting to know you as a person, not whether you passed Grade 8 Flute (unless, of course, you are applying for a Music degree).