Applying to university

How to Apply• All applications are made on-line through

UCAS (Universities & Colleges Admissions Service)

• Via UCAS Apply at www.ucas.com

Apply Online• Apply online through existing college or as an

individual• Colleges issue a ‘buzzword’ which is a word or

phrase needed to register • Register early in the summer

UCAS Application Form• Seven Sections:

Personal Details – Additional Information Choices – Education – EmploymentPersonal Statement – References

• You may choose up to five courses• Apply for more than one course you will have to pay

£23. • If you apply for one course at one university, you pay

£12.• Don’t forget to send to referee to check your details

and add their statement

When to Apply• UCAS must receive applications between 1st

September 15th January

• Art & Design Courses – institutions select preferred closing day – check with each one (often March 24th)

• Oxford & Cambridge – medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, science must be received by 15th October

Late Applications• Applications received between 16 January - 30

June will be classed as late applications and will be considered by Universities and Colleges if they wish to make any additional offers only.

Tip: don’t leave it until the last minute!

What Happens Next?• UCAS applications are normally processed within

one working day once submitted– Welcome letter– Application Number– Personal ID– Username– List of your choices

• Check progress of your application through UCAS TRACK

What Happens Then?• Applications are sent to chosen universities• You may be invited for an interview• Applicants receive one of the following from their

chosen universities via UCAS:

o Conditional Offero Unconditional Offero Withdrawn Applicationo Unsuccessful Application

What Happens Then?• Successful applicants accept one firm choice

and one insurance choice using TRACK at www.ucas.com

• Once exam results are published, your University or College will confirm your place and you can accept/reject.

• If they do not confirm, you follow the same route as declined/rejected applicants.

Unsuccessful Applicants?• Don’t Panic!

• UCAS Extra – (until the end of June 2013 – after June applications go into

Clearing)• UCAS Clearing

– (through August 2013 & September 2013)• All available places are advertised in The Independent and

on the UCAS website TIP:TIP: Speak to chosen institutions first! Speak to chosen institutions first!

Application made through UCAS

Application sent to universities

Offer made

Unconditional Offer Conditional offer

APPLICANT ACCEPTED

Unsuccessful Application

Accept one firm and one insurance place

Results Place not confirmed

Place confirmed All applications declined/rejected

EXTRA CLEARING

• Attend open days & discovery days• Talk to universities and college staff• Careers conventions• Talk to family and friends• Start research early• Think about expectations of university• Use the Careers Service• Use the information available

What Now?