How to apply to universities in the UK

UK university applications for full-time study are made through a central agency called the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service which is also known as UCAS. Application for UK degree courses is a complex process that take plenty of time and thought to be carried out successfully.

Research courses in advance

Before making an application, a potential UK degree student would not only need to know which subject, but also which course of study that he/she wishes to follow. Therefore, students need to research which universities offer the closest match to their requirements. Find colleges All universities have good online resources to attract new students, but few post full details of their specialist courses there. Potential students can order copies of course brochures to be sent by mail. Local libraries often keep an up-to-date stock of these for public access. Visits Universities have regular visit days where potential candidates can arrange to spend a day on campus with guided tours and subject-specific talks that are bookable in advance. Parents are welcome at these events which should be completed in the first year of Sixth Form College.

The application process

Students for full-time study do not apply directly to the college of their choice. Instead, they apply through UCAS. This rule also applies to European candidates for UK university places who will find specific instructions on the UCAS web pages. Up to five courses and universities can be named, but a fee is payable to UCAS to administer each choice. When to apply Filling in the form should begin from June onwards, and the completed form will have to be ready to send off by the UCAS given date. This is usually during the mid of September before the university place will be required. Different subject areas, such as Medicine or Art and Design, have different deadline dates, so these must be checked on the UCAS schedule early in the process.

Completing the process

Places for all full-time courses in the UK are processed through UCAS whereas part-time students can apply direct to a local university. Mature applicants may find that access courses are available to ease them back into learning. Getting an offer Colleges examine each application notified to them by UCAS and make an offer of a place to each chosen candidate. This offer will detail how many points that the student will need to earn through their exam results both at GCSE and A level. The UCAS website gives advice on preparing for an interview and what to do next if no offer is made to an individual.