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Student Guide to

and Higher Education

www.trc.ac.uk

Thomas Rotherham College

Contents

Important dates UCAS calendar and checklist 2020/2021

5 Steps to comple�ng your UCAS applica�on Page 3

2021 Apply Register and log in Page 4

How to complete your UCAS Applica�on Form 2021 Page 5

Resources Section

Researching your HE choices Page 11

University Open Days why bother? Page 14

HE Ins�tu�on Open Days 2021 Page 16

Final choices for UCAS applica�on Page 17

UCAS tariff table Page 18

Personal Statements Page 19

What Makes a Good Applicant? Page 20

General Top Tips for wri�ng your Personal Statement Page 21

Applica�ons for Russell Group Universi�es Page 22

How to Structure Your Personal Statement Page 23

Personal Statement Planner Page 24

Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine Degrees Specialist Personal Statement Planner Page 26


Top Tips Page 28

Allied Health Profession Degrees Specialist Personal Statement Planner Page 29


Top Tips Page 31

Teaching Degrees Specialist Personal Statement Planner Page 32


Support Available from Local Universi�es 2020 21 Page 34

A�er you apply Page 36

UCAS uncondi�onal offers friend or foe? Page 37

Replying to your UCAS offers Page 39

UCAS ‘EXTRA’ Page 41

What to do on A Level results day Page 42

Important dates ‐ UCAS calendar and checklist 2020/2021

21 May 2020 UCAS Apply 2021 OPENS for applicants to start their applica�ons.

22 June TRC students register on UCAS Apply 2021

Summer holiday Students research university course choices and begin to dra� their personal statement.

Note: Many universi�es will hold open days for their various courses in June and July. See www.opendays.com

1 September Students return to college with PERSONAL DETAILS AND EDUCATION SECTIONS OF UCAS FORM

COMPLETED and a dra� of their Personal Statement.

1 September Earliest date completed UCAS forms can be submi�ed.

25 September Internal deadline for Oxford and Cambridge applica�ons, Medicine, Den�stry and Vet. Science

applica�ons.

Allows for forms to be checked, amended, if necessary, and references to be added before the applica�on is finally sent off.

15 October Official UCAS deadline for Oxford and Cambridge applica�ons, Medicine, Den�stry and Vet. Science

applica�ons.

Applica�ons received a�er this date be considered.WILL NOT

22 October Careers Fair at TRC

Come and speak to over 30 ins�tu�ons!

16 November Internal Deadline for remaining applica�ons. Tutors need �me to check each applica�on carefully, ALL

possibly return it for amendment and prepare their reference. Each applica�on is then checked by a college manager

before finally being sent to UCAS. These checks all take �me due to the volume of applica�ons. They are for the student's

benefit, however, and cannot be guaranteed if an applica�on is submi�ed a�er the internal deadline.

15 January 2021 Official UCAS deadline date. Equal considera�on deadline for applica�ons for most courses.

25 February UCAS Extra opens

30 June Applica�ons received by this date will be sent to universi�es and colleges. A�er this date, applica�ons are

automa�cally entered into Clearing. Universi�es and colleges will only consider applica�ons submi�ed un�l now IF they

s�ll have vacancies.

6 July Clearing opens for those eligible

13 August A level Results Day Adjustment opens for registra�on.

Good luck! Help is available in college if you need it

Page 2

Read and follow these steps carefully

STEP 1Complete all the sec�ons of your UCAS form, including your Personal Statement. Make sure your choices are realis�c ones.

To help with this, make sure you know what your UCAS predicted grades are. Get this very important informa�on from your A2

tutor.

STEP 2 Print out a copy of your completed UCAS form and take it to your tutor who will check it and sign it.

STEP 3 Complete the payment sec�on online and click on 'Pay and Send'. You will need to pay by credit or debit card (if you can only pay

by cheque, come to Student Services Recep�on). Once you have paid, your form is sent to your tutor (not to UCAS!) so he/she

can write the reference.

STEP 4Bring the paper copy of your UCAS form (this must be signed by your tutor) to Student Services Recep�on. You will receive a

receipt that explains what happens next.

STEP 5Your tutor has one week to write your reference. The reference is then checked before your form is sent to UCAS. This process

can take up to two weeks.

5 Steps to completing your UCAS application

UC SA

You can request a copy of your reference by asking at Student Services Reception after your form has been sent.

This will be emailed to you.

Page 3

Registration and logging on

The first �me you use Apply you will need to register. You only need to register ONCE.

1. Go to www.ucas.com/students

You will be taken to a page: Student sign in (Please select an educa�on scheme)

2. Select Undergraduate

3. Select 2021 Entry

4. Select Apply

5. Select Register

6. Follow the onscreen instruc�ons.

Your username will then be generated. Write the username and password down below:

My Username: My Password:

7. Once your username is displayed, click on and follow the instruc�ons below.log in now

8. When asked 'How are you applying?' select Through my school/college

9. Enter the buzzword, which is Say to Thomas Rotherham College thomroth21 Yes

10. When you are asked about your tutor group, �ck . Do not enter your tutor's name as you may not have theDon't know

same tutor for A2!

11. When the welcome screen is displayed, note your personal ID number below:

My Personal ID number:

12. Log in and con�nue with your applica�on

13. When you wish to leave the applica�on, click at the bo�om of the screen and at the top right corner Save Logout

BEFORE closing the page.

Registration on UCAS ‘Apply’ 2020

DO NOT LOSE THESE – you will need them every time you need to access your application

DO NOT LOSE THIS – you need it to communicate with UCAS

2021apply Register and log in

Page 4

Firstly, please note the following:

A�er you complete your form, it will be sent to UCAS immediately as it will first need to be checked, a reference added and not

then checked by a college manager. For this reason, you need to meet the detailed on the COLLEGE INTERNAL DEADLINES

calendar.

ApplicationYou will need to input the sent to your email address before you can complete your applica�on you can do verification code

this now by logging in to the email account that you have registered with and following the instruc�ons.

Enter your verifica�on code in the box and click verify email.

In the left‐hand column are all the sections you must complete, in order to complete your UCAS application.

Personal DetailsClick on 'Personal Details'.

Check the details that have been automa�cally inpu�ed.

Permanent home is in the UK Tick Yes

Country of birth, nationality and Area of permanent residence, click see list and choose the one that is relevant to you.

Dual nationality you would only be considered to have this if you have a dual na�onality passport. If you are unsure, leave

that field blank and bring your passport in to check with your tutor.

Residential category most students should click on see list and select UK Ci�zen England. If you are not a UK Ci�zen, click

on the ? for help or ask your tutor.

Unique Learner Number is a tendigit number found on your student card. NB This is your TRC number that begins NOT

with 0000. Look for the other 10 digit number.

Student Support Fee Code select 02 UK, Chl, IoM or EU student finance services.

Student Support Arrangements see list. Select the name of your Local Authority.

Nominated Access if you want to nominate someone to act on your behalf with UCAS, enter their name here.

UCAS method of contact select the appropriate box.

Disability / Special Needs click see list and choose the one that applies to you. Give details in the box below if necessary.

If you have completed everything then you can �ck and then Sec�on completed Save.

If you haven't completed everything you can click and you can return to complete it later.Save

Any part of the section you have not completed will be highlighted. Just complete and save.

How to complete your UCAS Application Form 2021

Type exactly as you

want the information

to appear on the form

(watch out for typing

and spelling errors).

This is a formal

application: use capital

and lower‐case letters

just as you would in a

formal email or job

application (eg

Rotherham, not

rotherham).

You have up to

5 choices available.

A fee is required by

UCAS of £20 for 1

choice or £25 for 2 or

more choices by

credit / debit card.

UC SA

Page 5


ChoicesChoices can be added in any order they will default to alphabe�cal order when your applica�on is sent off.

Click add a choice

Institution code type the name of the ins�tu�on then select it from the list provided

Course code (double check it IS the correct one) click see list – select the le�er for the name of the course �tle

Campus code click see list – select a campus, if necessary

Start date select the appropriate date you wish to start the course

Further details enter any further details that have been s�pulated in the prospectus

Live at home whilst studying select Yes or No to say whether you will be living at home whilst studying at the ins�tu�on

Point of entry leave blank

EducationClick on 'Educa�on' in the le�hand column.

Please state the highest level of qualifica�on you expect to have before you start

your course select Below honours degree level educa�on.

Click to enter details of your secondary school.Add new school/college/centre

Click The centre number should be added automa�cally find and select your school.

added when you select your school.

Add your star�ng and leaving dates for that school.

Did you receive any formal qualifica�ons? click Yes.

Click Save.

Click Add qualifica�ons.

Use the search box to find GCSE or select from the popular qualifica�on list below the search bar.

Select General Cer�fica�on of Secondary Educa�on (19).

Using the informa�on on your GCSE Cer�ficates, enter each GCSE with the date awarded (usually this will be June 2019),

awarding body and grade.

A�er entering each one click Save and add similar.

To enter a GCSE Double Award, GCSE Short Course, BTEC Award or any other qualifica�on, go back to the Summary and find

the appropriate qualifica�on as it appears on your cer�ficate.

If you got a U, E or D in any subject, you

need to enter it as a result, even if you're going to resit the exam

UC SA

Page 6

Adding college qualifications Go back to summary page

Click Add new School/College

Find and enter Thomas Rotherham College.

Enter your start and finish dates, a�endance

(full �me) and qualifica�ons (yes) and Save

Click Add qualifica�ons

Adding A/S levelsVery few students are now taking A/S levels.

If you are, go to the Popular qualifica�ons list and select GCE Advanced Subsidiary.

Subject

Qualifica�on date June 2020

Awarding organisa�on select your exam board

Grade enter your result

Adding A‐levels Popular qualifica�ons list and select GCE Advanced Level

Subject


Awarding organisa�on select your exam board

Grade 'Pending’

Adding BTEC qualificationsThe BTEC qualifica�on that you are studying for will depend on how much of your �metable is spent studying that subject.

You will gain a qualifica�on at the end of Yr. 1 of your BTEC course.


UC SA

Click on add qualifications and enter all your A‐level subjects

A/S Levels are known as GCE Advanced Subsidiary

A‐levels are known asGCE Advanced Level

One block BTEC subjects Two block BTEC subjects Three Block BTEC subjects

BTEC Certificate QCF BTEC Subsidiary Diploma QCF BTEC 90‐Credit Diploma QCF

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma QCF BTEC Diploma QCF BTEC Extended Diploma QCF

Lower Sixth

Upper Sixth

Criminology Performing Arts

Applied Certificate WJEC Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Ext. Cert. (360) (First teaching Sept. 2016)

Applied Diploma WJEC Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Dip. (720) (First teaching Sept. 2016)

Year 1

Year 2

Exceptions:

Page 7

The Awarding Body for BTEC is Pearson

BTEC Registration Number must be provided if you are taking a BTEC qualification in college.

EXAM BOARDS FOR OTHER SUBJECTS ARE LISTED ON PAGE 10


UC SA

Popular Qualifications

ASDAN Level 3 Award in Personal Effec�veness

Addi�onal Admissions Test

Advanced Extension Awards

BTEC 90Credit Diploma (QCF)

BTEC Cer�ficate (QCF)

BTEC Diploma (QCF)

BTEC Extended Diploma (QCF)

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma (QCF)

Cer�ficate of Personal Effec�veness (CoPE)

Duke of Edinburgh Award

Extended Project (Level 3)

GCE Advanced Level

GCE Advanced Subsidiary

GCSE (Grade 9 1)

GCSE (Grade A* G)

GCSE Short Course

GCSE Double Award

Music Qualifica�on Graded Prac�cal (ABRSM) and equivalent

Music Qualifica�on Graded Theory (ABRSM) and equivalent

NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Cer�ficate in Childcare and Educa�on (EYE)

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Na�onal Cer�ficate (First teaching September 2016)

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Na�onal Diploma (First teaching September 2016)

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Na�onal Extended Cer�ficate (First teaching September 2016)

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Na�onal Extended Diploma (First teaching September 2016)

LIBF Cer�ficate in Financial Studies

LIBF Level 1 / Level 2 Qualifica�ons (not QCF)

Search

Put 'BTEC QCF' in the

search box or find the

qualifications in the

Popular Qualifications list

If your qualification is

not listed, look under

'Other UK qualification'

Page 8

Adding CACHE qualificationsYou need to split this into Yr. 1 and Yr. 2:

Year 1

Go to Popular qualifica�ons list and select NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Cer�ficate in Childcare and Educa�on (EYE)


Awarding organisa�on NCFE

Grade Enter your grade

Save and return to listPopular qualifica�ons

Year 2

Go to the Popular qualifica�ons list and select NCFE CACHE Technical Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Educa�on (EYE)


Awarding organisa�on NCFE

Grade Pending

Save

Adding Employment Click on add employer

Enter details of paid employment, past and present. It does not have to be employment solely relevant to your

applica�on.

Voluntary work and placements can be included in your Personal Statement

Employer name should be the company name, not the name of your boss eg Hair Design, not Lisa.

Address only needs to be brief details eg Primark, Meadowhall, Sheffield

When did you finish leave unanswered if ongoing employment

Personal Statement 47 lines or 4000 characters, with spaces. Times New Roman, font size 12

See separate guide for advice on wri�ng an effec�ve UCAS Personal Statement.

Type your statement in Word and then paste it online as there is no spellchecker on Apply!


UC SA

Page 9

CompletionWhen all sec�ons have been marked as complete, you can click on Pay and Send.

Read the Terms and Condi�ons

Click We can be�er offer help to I agree for college to be allowed to see informa�on on the progress of your applica�on.

those needing it if we are aware of their situa�on.

NB When you click on Pay and Send it purely flags your form on the system and ready for checking as DOES NOT send it to UCAS.

Your tutor will then check it, return it if any amendments are required, and add a reference.

When this is done, a college manager will check and approve the applica�on before sending it to UCAS.

This final process may take up to 2 weeks, due to volume of applica�ons.

SO, DO NOT GIVE YOUR APPLICATION TO YOUR TUTOR AT THE LAST MINUTE!

Good luck with your application!Help is available with any part of your applica�on or the selec�on process from the Careers Advisers. Appointments are available

via Student Services Recep�on.


UC SA

Art (Fine Art/Graphics) PearsonBiology OCRBusiness Studies PearsonCACHE CACHE/NCFEChemistry OCRComputer Science AQACore Maths AQACriminology (Applied) WJECEconomics AQAEnglish Language AQAEnglish Literature PearsonFilm Studies WJECFrench AQAFurther Maths AQAGeography Pearson

Geology WJECGerman AQAHistory AQALaw OCRMaths AQAMedia Studies WJECMusic PearsonMusic Technology PearsonPhilosophy AQAPhysics AQAPoli�cs PearsonPsychology AQAReligious Studies PearsonSociology AQASpanish AQA

Exam Boards

English GCSE AQAMaths GCSE PearsonCombined Science AQAHistory AQACambridge Tech. in Media Studies OCR

Personal Financial Level 2 LIBFFunc�onal Skills Level 1/Level 2 Pearson

Level 3

Level 2 Other subjects

ALL BTEC COURSES ARE PEARSON

Page 10

Looking at Higher Educa�on (HE) can seem like a massive job. This handout aims to break

it down into the most important things you need to think about and where you can get help.

What subject shall I study?There are over 51,000 different courses listed on UCAS and you need to get it down to 5 choices. For some careers, you need to

take par�cular degree courses, so check this out before making your applica�on.

Some professions have mul�ple qualifica�on routes, so it is worth checking that you are aware of all of them and have picked the

best one for you. Addi�onally, certain careers require professional qualifica�ons, so you need to explore this thoroughly before

making your applica�on.

HELP

Book a careers appointment via Student Services Recep�on

www.ucas.com/buzz‐quiz ‐ a short quiz designed to help you iden�fy what you like and what you could do.

www.ukcoursefinder.com

www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk ‐ an interac�ve site where users can highlight their requirements and create their own

table

www.university.which.co.uk ‐ wide‐ranging site covering many aspects of HE research

www.prospects.ac.uk ‐ use Job Profiles to check individual careers

Consider a�ending a Taster Day or Summer School ‐ adver�sed in college or on www.ucas.com/taster‐course

Many universities are now offering them online so check their websites for details.

How do courses differ?There are lots of different subjects at university some new to you. Many are voca�onal, and you may want to study them to go

into a par�cular career e.g. nursing and accountancy. Others are academic, which you may study because you are interested in

the subject. These can include familiar subjects like French or Geography, or new areas like Social Policy or Marke�ng.

You need to examine the differences between courses in your subject area. For example, if you're interested in construc�on, but

wish to use your crea�ve skills, you may be be�er suited to a Building Design Management course than a Project Management

op�on.

You also need to look beyond the course �tle even if they have exactly the same name, they may differ enormously. Each

university puts together its own course, so what they include and how it is delivered reflect the strengths of the staff and facili�es

available.

HELP

If they are available, go to individual , which are listed on www.opendays.com. Get a feel for the course, the OPEN DAYS

department, the university and the loca�on – you could be there for many years.

Many ins�tu�ons are running at the moment instead – check out their websites for details. VIRTUAL OPEN DAYS

Unibuddy ‐ UCAS have launched a where you can link with university students on courses of interest to ask PEER NETWORK

them ques�ons about the course or ins�tu�on: www.ucas.com/chat‐to‐students

Individual university and college websites for course structure, content and assessment.

www.unistats.ac.uk ‐ compare student sa�sfac�on scores, percentage of coursework, teaching hours etc.

www.�meshighereduca�on.com and www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk ‐ both are interac�ve sites where users can

highlight their requirements and create their own tables.

Researching your HE choices ResourcesSection

Page 11

Researching your HE choices

Will I get in?Different universi�es may ask for different grades/points for the same course why?

Some courses are very popular, with many more applica�ons than places available; others are not oversubscribed. Se�ng different

entry grades is how universi�es can manage demand for their courses. Generally, the lower the demand, the lower the offer you

will get (within reason!).

You also need to check other requirements. Many courses demand GCSE Maths & English. Other courses require you to have done

work experience, so you need to make sure you have the amount and type of experience they expect.

It is very important you check the work experience requirements of each individual institution in light of Covid ‐19 as they are constantly evolving.

You need to be realis�c so it is important to get your es�mated grades from your subject tutors, before making your final choices.

Unrealis�c applica�ons can mean ge�ng no offers or was�ng an opportunity.

The UCAS Tariff Table is available in this booklet.

HELP

Book a careers appt via Student Services Recep�on

www.ucas.com/search ‐ for 'Choose a Course' and Admission Test deadlines

Individual university websites

Degree Course Offers 2021 (book in LRC)

What are the different types of course?Type of course In many cases your es�mated grades determine the type of course you can apply for, but it is important to have a

backup course that you would be happy with, should you not get the grades for your first choice. The different types of course are:

Masters (MA/MSc/MEng etc.) – Level 7 – 45 years full�me study

Degree (BA/BSc (Hons.) etc) – Level 6 – 35 years dep. on subject

Founda�on Degree (FdA/FdSc) – Level 5 – 2 years

Higher Educa�on Diploma (DipHE) – Level 5 – 2 years

Higher Na�onal Diploma (HND) Level 5 – 2 years

Higher Na�onal Cer�ficate (HNC) – Level 4 – 1 year

Cer�ficate of Higher Educa�on (CertHE) – Level 4 – 1 year

Mode of study The length of course given above relates to full�me study, but it may suit you be�er to study part�me or through

a flexible route such a distance learning. These routes are common via Degree Appren�ceships.

Course components and op�ons If you do not want to study just one subject, you could look at different course combina�ons.

Joint Honours courses combine different subject areas: for example, you could study English and History. Major/Minor courses are

similar but are weighted towards one subject.

Most courses are modular, so are made up of different subject 'blocks' which deal with par�cular area of interest. Modules can be

delivered using a range of lectures, seminars and/or workshops. You may be able to choose some or all of the modules you study;

either way it is important to look at the components that make up your course.

Methods of assessment Some courses use tradi�onal end of year exams with aspects of con�nuous assessment through the year,

whilst others have modular exams, unseen or open book exams, or even no exams, preferring to use other methods such a

por�olio, reflec�ve wri�ng, assignments, report, observa�ons… . Consider which methods suit you best when making your choices.

ResourcesSection

Page 12

Researching your HE choices

Work experience is offered on many courses, either through placements, sandwich years or

even years abroad studying or working. Founda�on degrees always include workbased learning. If this is important to you, focus

on these courses and consider the amount of support given to students to find appropriate work opportuni�es.

HELP


Go to individual , or , with details on ins�tu�on websites or on www.opendays.com OPEN DAYS VIRTUAL OPEN DAYS

Individual university websites under each course detail

How much will it cost?Universi�es can charge up to £9,250 a year in course fees; and then you may have to pay for rent, food, books and equipment

and have a social life. Where does the money come from?

Understandably you may be concerned about the cost of going to university or college. It may even make an impact on the

decisions you make about the type of course and loca�on. However, there is plenty of help and advice about the opportuni�es

and assistance available.

HELP


www.moneysavingexpert.com/students/student‐loans‐tui�on‐fees‐changes/ ‐ Mar�n Lewis' excellent video and explana�on

of student finance support

www.direct.gov.uk/studen�inance ‐ details of the whole financial package

www.ucas.com/students/studen�inance ‐ as above

www.scholarshiphub.org.uk ‐ links to bursary and scholarship informa�on for all higher educa�on ins�tu�ons

www.nusonline.co.uk ‐ na�onal voice of students

Where do I go and how do I decide?You may wish to remain close to home or decide to live in a different part of the country. Your choice may depend on the

academic or social facili�es offered, or the local area for relevant employment, your hobbies and interests, friends and rela�ves.

You may also want to consider the local cost of living and the distance from home.

Friends, family, advisers and websites may offer different advice, and whilst it is useful to have varied perspec�ves, will be YOU

the one going, and the final decision must be .YOURS

Use the university websites for informa�on about the place and the courses, but remember they will want to show off their good

points. A�ending open days can help you discover the good and the bad points of a place, and look at the comparison websites

to get unbiased informa�on, as well as student forums to get other opinions

HELP


Go to individual , with dates listed on their websites or on www.opendays.com. If those are not running, many OPEN DAYS

are hos�ng online – check their websites for details.VIRTUAL OPEN DAYS

Unibuddy ‐ peer network where you can link with university students on courses of interest to ask them ques�ons about the

course or ins�tu�on: www.ucas.com/chat‐to‐students

www.unistats.ac.uk ‐ lets you compare subjects, courses, sa�sfac�on ra�ngs

www.university.which.co.uk ‐ free and independent informa�on, allows you to search on entry requirements, loca�on and

extra‐curricular interests, and find out how many students get offers

www.thestudentroom.co.uk ‐ student forums and loads more

ResourcesSection

Page 13

Let's be honest, there's plenty of informa�on available on the internet and in prospectuses, so

what's the big deal about university open days?

Firstly, let's put the university websites and prospectuses in context: they're marke�ng informa�on, and you need to treat them

as such.

An open day is your best opportunity to find out what you really want to know about courses and universi�es; the stuff you won't

find on their websites or in their prospectuses. It's also the only way you'll really get a 'feel' for what studying, and possibly living

and socialising, there is going to be like.

If it's not possible to a�end an Open Day in person this year, look out for the Virtual Open Days many universi�es are hos�ng

via their websites. You can s�ll ask the same ques�ons to get a good insight into whether it's really the right place for you.

Below are some useful �ps about things to ask about and look for, in order to make the most of your open day visit.

Questions to ask about the courseObviously you'll want to ask ques�ons specific to your subject, but some general informa�on is also needed:

What does the course cover?

Do I need to study a minor subject in my 1st year?

How many hours a week will I be in �metabled teaching?

What's the split between lectures, tutorials and selfdirected study?

What size are tutorial groups?

How much flexibility is there?

What assessment methods are used?

Are placements or study abroad opportuni�es on offer? Where are they? How are they organised? How do they affect

tui�on fees?

Does it have the facili�es you expect?

What are the pros and cons of taking a joint or combined course?

Questions about applying for the courseThis could be your chance to find out �tbits of informa�on to later impress them with in your Personal Statement

What do they look for in Personal Statements?

Can they recommend any reading or ac�vi�es to inform your PS?

How do they select candidates to make offers to?

How do they feel about gap years?

Is it worth applying for more than one course?

What if you just miss the grades required?

Do they accept your combina�on of subjects?

Questions about career prospects What have previous students gone on to do a�er gradua�on?

How does their course make you more employable? Do they

include placements?

Is a postgraduate course usually necessary a�er this course

to work in this field?

What are their careers guidance facili�es like?

Are there job fairs organised at the university?

University Open Days ‐ why bother? ResourcesSection

Page 14

University Open Days ‐ why bother?

Questions about accommodationCanny universi�es will show off their best halls of residence, but make sure you ask about them all.

Is a place in Halls guaranteed for 1st years? Would it s�ll be if the university was your Insurance choice?

What accommoda�on is available offcampus for 1st years?

What does it all cost and what's included in the price?

What are the pros and cons of catered versus selfcatered?

How big are the rooms? Are some bigger than others?

How quiet are the rooms?

How secure are they?

Do most students stay on campus at weekends?

What happens in Years 2 & 3?

How far is it to lectures, town, banks and supermarkets from the accommoda�on?

Questions to ask current studentsDon't be afraid to talk to the students at Open Days that's what they're there for

Why did you choose to come here?

How have you found the course so far?

How have you coped with the course a�er Alevels/BTEC? What are the main differences?

What are the lecturers like? Do they know you by name? How o�en do you see them?

If you ask for help, do you get it and do staff genuinely seem to care about you?

What support services are there? Counselling, Chaplaincy, Disability Advisory Services, Welfare Advice etc.

Was it easy to get to know people here?

What's life like in the Halls? Are some be�er than others?

What's the campus like at weekends?

Do you feel safe here?

What clubs and socie�es are you involved in? How easy is it to join 'x' club/society/team?

To what extent will I be able to find part�me work, if I need to?

How difficult is it to cope financially?

Remember to take notes of everything you find out during your visit. Don't rely on your memory, especially if you are

planning to visit several universi�es.

Finally ask yourself Can I see myself studying here for three years or longer?

Will the course here interest and challenge me?

Would I enjoy spending �me with the people I met at this university?

ResourcesSection

Page 15

Details of Open Days held at universi�es and colleges may be found on their individual

websites or via www.opendays.com

Booking, via the university website, is essen�al prior to a�endance at Open Days so that you can select to a�end talks on specific

academic subjects and those on more general ma�ers such as accommoda�on, UCAS applica�ons, student finance etc.

Many institutions are not running the Open Days they had scheduled for May/June 2020 due to Covid‐19.

They may run ones in September and October, however no decision has been made on this yet, so you

need to check their websites and use the alternative resources they have made available.

Most of them are offering with Student Ambassadors and Virtual campus tours, Virtual Open Days and Virtual Q&A sessions

Admissions Tutors so you can get the informa�on you require.

Have a look on the individual university websites for details.

You can also use to ask ques�ons of current students at many universi�es: www.ucas.com/chattostudentsUnibuddy

HE Institution Open Days 2021 ResourcesSection

www.opendays.com

Page 16

My es�mated grades:

L2/GCSE Courses and est. grades:

Final choices for UCAS application

Institution name

Course title

Course code

Degree / FDg / HND

Single / Joint / Sandwich course

Method(s) of assessment

L3 entry requirements

L2 / GCSE entry requirements

Experience requirements

Is this realistic for you?

Attended (virtual) open day?

Entry test required?

Live at university / home in 1st year

Distance away from home and travel time?

City / rural?

Campus university / spread across the city?

Study and leisure facilities?

Student support facilities?eg Accommodation, Careers, Chaplaincy, Counselling, Disabled Student Support

CHOICE 1 CHOICE 2 CHOICE 3

Institution name

Course title

Course code

Degree / FDg / HND

Single / Joint / Sandwich course

Method(s) of assessment

L3 entry requirements

L2 / GCSE entry requirements

Experience requirements

Is this realistic for you?

Attended (virtual) open day?

Entry test required?

Live at university / home in 1st year

Distance away from home and travel time?

City / rural?

Campus university / spread across the city?

Study and leisure facilities?

Student support facilities?eg Accommodation, Careers, Chaplaincy, Counselling, Disabled Student Support

CHOICE 4 CHOICE 5 NOTES

ResourcesSection

Page 17

Other qualifica�ons included in the UCAS Tariff can be found online at: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariffcalculator

UCAS tariff table

168 D*D*D* A*

160 D*D*D

152 D*DD

144 DDD A

128 DDM

120 B

112 DMM D*D*

104 D*D

96 MMM DD C

80 MMP DM

72 D

64 MPP MM

A* 56 D*

A 48 PPP MP D

B 40

C 32 PP M

A* 28 D*

A D 24 D

B A 20

C B E 16 P M

D C 12

D 10

E 8 P

E 6

4

Extended Project

ASLevel

ALevel

TariffPoints

BTECExt. Dip.

BTECDiploma

BTECSub. Dip.

BTECCertificate

CACHEDiploma

tariff table

ResourcesSection

Page 18

Personal Statements

Everything you need to know about writing yourPersonal Statement!The Personal Statement is an important part of your UCAS applica�on. It's your chance to describe your ambi�ons, skills and

experience to university and college admissions staff.

Watch the video from the link below before you start:

https://www.ucas.com/personalstatement

The following advice can be applied to applica�ons for all courses. It provides a general format for you to follow for most courses.

There are, however, a few exceptions:If you are applying for voca�onal Allied Health courses such as Nursing, Midwifery etc. or Medicine, Vet. Science, Den�stry or

Teaching, please use the �ps and template provided later on in the booklet.

ResourcesSection

Page 19

What Makes a Good Applicant? ResourcesSection

Admissions tutors will gather evidence from:

UCAS form

Personal statement

Reference

Admissions tests

Wri�en work or por�olio

Interview or audi�on

What Makes aGood Applicant?

Skills What skills do you have?

Decision making, leadership...

Current studies and achieved grades

Academic performance to date

Predicted academic performance

Good characterHow have you demonstrated your

character?

Personal Quali�es Determina�on, empathy,

understanding, commitment...

Are you an independent learner? How have you shown that?

Have you completed all required informa�on?

Numeracy, literacy and communica�on skills

Understanding of course/careerWhat do you know?

What have you done?

Work ExperiencesAny in a similar role or course?

Page 20

General Top Tips for writing your Personal Statement ResourcesSection

Personal StatementsThe following pages give advice about how to write your Personal Statement; what to include, how to structure it and what you

need to demonstrate about yourself in order to make the best impression possible.

The advice is different depending on what course you're applying for, so you can look at the Personal Statement guidance that is

best for your needs. There are some common factors across all advice though, which is that Admissions Tutors are looking for

Personal Statements to address three key areas:

Why you want to study the course

What you have done that makes you a suitable applicant for the course

What else you haves done that makes you an interes�ng and unique individual who will contribute to the course and the

university community

SO

Start early summer term of Year 12

Have a good opening paragraph to ensure that the Admissions Tutor reads on (see below)

Have a good concluding paragraph

Do not start every paragraph with ‘I’

There must be absolutely spelling or gramma�cal errors NO

Use simple, concise English, and effec�ve, meaningful words

Be aware that UCAS has similarity detec�on so�ware any plagiarism will be detected

Plan, dra�, redra�, check ... and check again

An article from The Telegraph newspaper had this to say…

Personal Statement: 10 most overused opening sentencesUCAS have compiled a list of the 10 most overused opening sentences in Personal Statements. Whatever you do, don’t begin

yours with any of these...

1. I am currently studying a (BTEC Na�onal Diploma) in… (used 464 �mes)

2. From a young age I have already been interested in… (309 �mes)

3. From an early age I have already been interested in… (292 �mes)

4. (Nursing) is a very challenging and demanding career… (275 �me)

5. For as long as I can remember I have been fascinated with… (196 �mes)

6. “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only...” (beginning with a quota�on) (189 �mes)

7. (Nursing) is a profession I have always looked upon with… (178 �mes)

8. For as long as I can remember I have been interested in… (166 �mes)

9. I am an interna�onal academy student and have been studying since... (141 �mes)

10. Academically, I have always been very determined and… (138 �mes)

Remember the ABC rule: Activity ‐ what did you do? Benefit ‐ what did you gain? Course ‐ relate it to your course!

Page 21

Russell Group Universi�es are 24 UK universi�es that ‘are commi�ed to the highest levels

of academic excellence in both teaching and research’. Russell Group students are o�en very

academically able and academically focused, o�en progressing from undergraduate to post graduate study. Entry requirements

are high, usually between A*AA and ABB.

More informa�on on Russell Group Universi�es can be found at www.russellgroup.ac.uk.

Writing the Personal StatementPersonal Statements for Russell Group Universi�es should follow the ‘75%+’ rule.

At least 75% of the Personal Statement should be about academic interests, mo�va�on and strengths with 25% or less on the

skills developed through extracurricular ac�vi�es.

Within the 75%, you might want to write about:

Reasons for course choice why you want to study the course

What you enjoy about the subjects currently studied

Evidence of study skills, wider reading and development as an independent learner

Interests and achievements which match the university entry profile requirements

Relevant work experience, job shadowing and employment

Career aspira�ons

Gap year plans (if relevant to course choice)

Within the 25%, you could write about:

How your involvement in extracurricular ac�vi�es, special achievements or significant responsibili�es has helped develop

transferable skills

Work experience, job shadowing and employment (if not directly relevant to course choice)

Gap year plans (if not directly relevant to course choice)

Any special circumstances

Applications for Russell Group Universities ResourcesSection

University of BirminghamUniversity of BristolUniversity of CambridgeCardiff UniversityDurham UniversityUniversity of EdinburghUniversity of ExeterUniversity of GlasgowImperial College LondonKing's College LondonUniversity of LeedsUniversity of Liverpool

London School of Economics and Political ScienceUniversity of ManchesterNewcastle UniversityUniversity of NottinghamUniversity of OxfordQueen Mary University of LondonQueen’s University BelfastUniversity of SheffieldUniversity of SouthamptonUniversity College LondonUniversity of WarwickUniversity of York

Don't assume that any 'University of … ' is a

Russell Group institution

Page 22

WHY CHOSEN COURSE?

Why does it interest you?

What areas of the subject do you find interes�ng?

RELEVANT SUBJECT

Skills you have developed

Which topics have you found most interes�ng and why?

Extra reading etc.

OTHER SUBJECTS

Skills you have developed that are transferable to your course/university

Areas of par�cular interest

OTHER INTERESTS

Sports, hobbies, interests and how they have benefited and developed you

Posi�ons of responsibility, part�me jobs and skills you have developed through these

CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH

Why you want to do the course

Why you think you will do well at University

How to Structure Your Personal Statement ResourcesSection

Have a look at the website

studential.comFor lots of tips and advice about writing an effective Personal Statement!

RELEVENT WORK

EXPERIENCE

Skills you

developed

Areas you found

most interes�ng

and why

Posi�ons of

responsibility

Page 23

Use this planning grid to organise your ideas and plan your statement.

WHY CHOSEN COURSE?

(why does it interest you/what areas of the subject do you find interes�ng)

RELEVANT SUBJECT

(skills you have developed/which topics have you found most interes�ng and why/extra reading etc.)

Personal Statement Planner ResourcesSection

Remember the ABC rule: Activity ‐ what did you do? Benefit ‐ what did you gain? Course ‐ relate it to your course!

Page 24

Personal Statement Planner ResourcesSection

OTHER SUBJECTS

(areas of par�cular interest/skills you have developed that are transferable to your course/university)

OTHER INTERESTS

(sports, hobbies, interests and how they have benefi�ed you/posi�ons of responsibility, part�me jobs and skills you have

developed through these)

CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH

(why you want to do the course/why you think you will do well at university)

University Top Tip:Check with your universi�es that their entry requirements don't call for specific GCSE grades it may be that you have to

enrol on a GCSE course in your second year at TRC and if so, you need to know that before you enrol for your second year

at TRC in September.

Page 25

Specialist Personal Statement Planner for: ResourcesSection

Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine DegreesHow to structure your Personal Statement. Add your notes in the spaces.

Read this if you are applying for:

Medicine

Den�stry

Veterinary Medicine

Universi�es are se�ng more demanding entry requirements for both GCSE and Alevel grades, o�en in specific subjects for

these degrees.

IN ADDITION: Additionally, students must check the entry criteria re relevant work experience

with each institution they wish to apply to, as this is a changing situation in light of Covid‐19.

Applicants must be able to ar�culate what they have learnt from that experience and the skills and quali�es they have

demonstrated.

It is important that you evidence that you have made a wellinformed choice, are commi�ed to the profession and hold a good

range of relevant skills and interests. Invita�on to interview is largely determined by selec�on against desirable elements.

Don’t forget that the UCAT and BMAT scores are very important. You need to have registered for either/both the BMAT or the

UCAT, depending on which ins�tu�on you’re applying to. Students who need to sit the BMAT at TRC need to get a form from

the Exams Office by 1st October 2020 in order to register.

Don’t forget ‐ the LRC has a careers section where you can do some research on your chosen career and could enhance your application.

Resources include: UKCAT Official Guide 2020

Succeeding in the UKCAT

Passing the UKCAT and BMAT

www.bda.org.uk (Bri�sh Dental Associa�on)

www.ucat.ac.uk (UCAT)

www.themedicportal.com (Medicine & Den�stry)

www.rvcs.org.uk (Royal College of Vet. Surgeons)

We recommend that you follow the template below when wri�ng your Personal Statement. This has been designed based on the

advice from Admission Tutors about what Personal Statements should contain. Of course, your Personal Statement is very much

your own and you can write what you like. However, if you are at a s�cking point or unsure what to say, the ideas on the following

page may help.

Page 26

How to Structure Your Personal Statement for:

Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine

What do you wish to study and why?

Why are you interested in a career in Medicine/Den�stry/Vet. Medicine?

Where did this idea come from?

What research into the profession did you undertake before deciding on your A Level choices / degree course choice?

What is your experience of the profession?

Outline what work experience that you have had that directly (or indirectly) relates to the profession you are interested in

This sec�on only needs to be a few sentences as you will be lis�ng the experience you have had.

What insight/knowledge have you gained from your experience of the profession? This is the most important section. You need to state what you

learnt about the profession you have experienced

Preferably you will have had a range of experience so you can draw upon the different aspects of the profession

What skills and quali�es are needed if you are going to pursue a career in Medicine/Den�stry/Vet Medicine?

What did your work experience teach you about this?

What are the posi�ve (or difficult) aspects of the profession? (You need to show you appreciate the commitment and resilience required)

What do you think you will enjoy most about the profession?

What kind of person are you?

This is a sec�on on extracurricular ac�vi�es, hobbies, work, academic achievements etc.

How do you think these ac�vi�es enhance your applica�on?

Conclusion

Your key points including why you are looking forward to the course/university.

ResourcesSection

Page 27

Top Tips for Medicine, Dentistry and Vet. Medicine ResourcesSection

Top 10 tips to help increase your chances of getting a place on a Medicine, Dentistry or Vet. Med. degree for 2021

Tip 1 Check entrance requirements including GCSEs carefully to ensure that you are applying for courses that are realis�c in

terms of entrance requirements.

Tip 2 Have a really good look at these useful websites for those considering:

Medicine: h�ps://themedicportal.com

Den�stry: h�p://careerplanning.about.com/library/quiz/career_quizzes/blden�stquiz.htm

Vet: h�p://careerplanning.about.com/library/quiz/career_quizzes/blveterinarian_quiz.htm

Tip 3 Find out if you are required to take the UCAT or BMAT

UCAT h�p://www.ucat.ac.uk/aboutthetest/whoshouldtakethetest/

Registra�on and comple�on of the test has to be done within a strict �metable (usually May to September before you submit

your UCAS applica�on).

You MUST check the UCAT website for these as they are under review in light of the pandemic.

We strongly recommend you sit the UCAT as soon as you are able, to ensure places are available at a local centre.

Tip 4 Find out if you are required to take the BMAT h�p://www.admissionstes�ngservice.org/fortesttakers/bmat/datesand

costs/ You can register to take the BMAT course at College. To do this you need to see Russell Gray in Exams Office in early

September 2020.

Tip 5 You MUST check the BMAT website for details of registra�on and test dates as they are under review in light of the

pandemic. Organise and get as much varied work experience as you possibly can. Keep a diary whilst on work placement of what

you saw, learnt and felt about the experience. Check with individual ins�tu�ons what their requirements are, in light of Covid19,

as they are under review.

Tip 6 Find out as much as you can about your chosen career by talking to people, researching on the internet and reading

books, publica�ons and journals.

Tip 7 A�end Open days or Virtual Open Days at the universi�es you are interested in. Check when they are running through

h�p://www.opendays.com/calendar/

Tip 8 Start thinking about your personal statement during the summer holidays. You will need plenty of �me to write it. Make

sure you use the college's template for Personal Statements for Medicine, Den�stry and Vet Medicine. (It is different to the

standard one.)

Tip 9 Book an appointment with a Careers Adviser for support with your Personal Statement and for a Mock Interview. The

internal deadline for completed UCAS applica�on forms is 25 September 2020 to meet the external deadline of 15th October

2020.

Tip 10 If you are unsuccessful in receiving an interview / offer contact the university for feedback. Places are compe��ve so it is

essen�al you have a backup plan. You can discuss your fi�h choice with the Careers Adviser too.

Page 28

Specialist Personal Statement Advice for: ResourcesSection

Allied Health Degrees

The number of university applica�ons for allied health degrees has soared over the past few years. Universi�es are placing more

demands on entry requirements for these degrees.

IN ADDITION: Students must check the entry criteria re relevant work experience with each

institution they wish to apply to, as this is a changing situation in light of Covid‐19.

Where relevant experience is required, it is expected that you are be able to ar�culate what have learnt from it.

It is important that you understand what it is you are applying for and that you demonstrate in your Personal Statement what you

know about your chosen degree course and the career you are hoping to train in.

We recommend that you follow the template below when wri�ng your Personal Statement; it has been designed based on the

advice from Admission Tutors about what a Personal Statement should contain. Of course, your Personal Statement is very much

your own and you can write what you like. However, if you are at a s�cking point or unsure what to say, the ideas below may

help.

Don’t forget ‐ The LRC has a careers section where you can do some research on your chosen career and could enhance your application.

Resources include: Careers 2019/20

A Career in the NHS NHS Careers

Careers Uncovered Nursing and Midwifery

Ge�ng into Physiotherapy courses

www.nmc.org.uk The Nursing and Midwifery Council

www.csp.org.uk The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists

www.sor.org The Society of Radiographers

See also, the websites of other professional bodies.

Dental Hygiene Dietetics Midwifery Nursing Occupational Therapy Operating Departmental Practice Orthoptics Paramedic Science

Physiotherapy Podiatry Prosthetics and Orthotics Radiography Social Work Radiotherapy and Oncology Speech and Language Therapy

Page 29


Allied Health Professions

What do you wish to study and why?

What career are you interested in?

Where did this idea come from and why do you wish to puersue this career (as opposed to another)?

What research into the profession did you undertake before deciding on your A Level choices/degree course choice?




What insight/knowledge have you gained from your experience of the profession? This is the most important section. You need to state what you

learnt about the profession you have experienced and show a realistic insight.

What skills and quali�es are needed if you are going to pursue this career? What did your work experience teach you about this?

What are the posi�ve (or difficult) aspects of the profession?

What do you think you will enjoy most about the profession? What do you see yourself doing in the profession in 10 years' �me?




Conclusion


ResourcesSection

Page 30

Top Tips for Allied Health Courses ResourcesSection

Top 10 tips to help increase your chances of getting a place on an Allied Health Course 2021

Tip 1 Check entrance requirements including GCSEs carefully to ensure that you are applying for courses that are realis�c in

terms of entrance requirements.

Tip 2 Organise and get as much varied work experience as you possibly can.

Tip 3 Keep a diary whilst on work placement of what you saw, learnt and felt about the experience.

Check with individual ins�tu�ons what their requirements are, in light of Covid19, as they are under review.

Tip 4 Find out as much as you can about the job by talking to people, researching on the internet and reading books

publica�ons and journals.

Tip 5 A�end Open days or Virtual Open Days at the universi�es you are interested in.

Tip 6 Start thinking about your Personal Statement during the summer holidays. You will need plenty of �me to get it right.

Tip 7 Make sure you use the college's template for Personal Statements for Allied Health Degrees. (It is different to the standard

one.)

Tip 8 Book an appointment with a Careers Adviser for support with your Personal Statement and for a Mock Interview. The

internal deadline is 16th November for completed UCAS applica�on forms.

Tip 9 If you are not successful in receiving an interview or an offer phone up the university to get some feedback.

Tip 10 Think about a backup plan if you don't get in. Places are very compe��ve for these courses so it sensible to have an idea

of what else you might want to do.

Page 31

Specialist Personal Statement Advice for: ResourcesSection

Teaching degreesRead this if you are applying for:

Primary Teaching

Any teaching related degrees with QTS status

Secondary teaching degrees

Any educa�on related degree course where you are hoping to progress onto a PGCE course a�erwards

University applica�ons for teaching degrees have increased significantly over the past few years. Universi�es are placing more

demands on entry requirements (for both GCSE and Alevel grades o�en in specific subjects) for these degrees.

IN ADDITION: Students must check the entry criteria re relevant work experience with each

institution they wish to apply to, as this is a changing situation in light of Covid‐19.

Applicants must be able to ar�culate what they have learnt from that experience and the skills and quali�es they have

demonstrated.

It is important that you evidence that you have made a wellinformed choice, are commi�ed to teaching and hold a good range

of relevant skills and interests. Invita�on to interview is largely determined by selec�on against desirable elements.

We recommend that you follow the template below when wri�ng Personal Statement. This has been designed based on the

advice from Admission Tutors about what Personal Statements should contain. Of course, your Personal Statement is very much

your own and you can write what you like. However, if you are at a s�cking point or unsure what to say, the ideas below may

help!

Don’t forget ‐ The LRC has a careers section where you can do some research on your chosen career and could enhance your application.

Resources include: Careers 2019/20

Target jobs Teaching

Careers Uncovered Teaching

www.gov.uk/government/organisa�ons/departmentforeduca�on

www.tes.co.uk

Also visit your chosen universi�es’ websites to find out further informa�on about the course you are applying to study.

What do you wish to study and why? Why are you interested in a career in teaching? Why that par�cular age group? (as opposed to another)

Where did this idea come from?

What research into the profession did you undertake before deciding on your A Level choices/degree course choice?

Page 32


Teaching




What Insight/knowledge have you gained from your experience of the profession? This Is the most important section. You need to state what you

learnt about the profession.

Preferably you will have had experience with your chosen age range in more than one school so you can draw upon the different approaches they take

What skills and abili�es are needed if you are going to pursue a career in teaching? What did your work experience teach you about this?

What are the posi�ve (or difficult) aspects of the profession? (You need to show you appreciate the commitment and resilience required to become an

effec�ve teacher)

What do you think you will enjoy most about the profession?

Men�on addi�onal relevant experience of working with children such as teaching abroad, sports coaching or �me spent as a play worker.




Conclusion


ResourcesSection

Page 33

Support Available from Local Universities 2020 ‐ 21 ResourcesSection

Thomas Rotherham College holds partnership agreements and par�cipates in progression

schemes with a number of universi�es to support those who are facing barriers and are currently

underrepresented in Higher Educa�on. It is worth checking the eligibility criteria of those listed below to see if you are eligible.

University of BradfordPROGRESSION SCHEME

Applicants from par�cular groups will automa�cally receive an offer which is the equivalent of one A Level grade (8 UCAS points)

lower than the standard entry criteria upon fulfilling the criteria required.

https://www.brad.ac.uk/applicants/progression‐scheme/

University of HuddersfieldPARTNERSHIP SCHEME AND HEADSTART HUDDERSFIELD SCHEME

TRC's partnership agreement with the University of Huddersfield guarantees an interview/audi�on if applicable or condi�onal

offer if the student meets the published academic and nonacademic entry requirements.

https://www.hud.ac.uk/undergraduate/schools‐and‐colleges‐liaison‐service/

Headstart Huddersfield is a scheme that offers eligible students, interested in applying to the University of Huddersfield, the

opportunity to gain an extra 8 UCAS points and a guaranteed offer or interview

https://www.hud.ac.uk/undergraduate/schools‐and‐colleges‐liaison‐service/headstart/

University of HullSCHOOL LIAISON SUPPORT

TRC's partnership agreement with the University of Hull guarantees an interview/audi�on or offer if the student meets the

published academic and nonacademic entry requirements.

https://www.hull.ac.uk/work‐with‐us/more/schools‐and‐colleges/schools‐and‐colleges‐engagement

University of LeedsACCESS TO LEEDS

Access to Leeds is an alterna�ve admissions scheme for anyone of Widening Par�cipa�on criteria OR who has experienced

disrupted studies.

https://www.leeds.ac.uk/info/130588/access_to_leeds

Leeds Trinity UniversityREWARD SCHEME

This scheme is for students who have the talent and drive to go to university but might not be able to reflect their poten�al in

grades alone.

The programme allows you to earn up to 8 addi�onal UCAS points towards your applica�on to Leeds Trinity, as well as giving you

the chance to work with university lecturers in a higher educa�on se�ng to gain a real understanding of the university

experience.

https://www.leedstrinity.ac.uk/study/reward‐scheme‐residential/

Page 34

Support Available from Local Universities 2020 ‐ 21 ResourcesSection

Newcastle UniversityTHE PARTNERS PROGRAMME

This offers a range of support and opportuni�es to help young people make a successful applica�on to Newcastle University.

http://www.ncl.ac.uk/schools/partners//

University of NottinghamSUMMER SCHOOL

The Su�on Trust Summer School is an opportunity for Year 12 students from a Widening Par�cipa�on background to experience

higher educa�on and receive support for the applica�on process.

https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/schoolsliaison/services/sutton‐trust‐summer‐school.aspx

Sheffield Hallam UniversitySHU PROGRESS SCHEME

The Progress Scheme is available to TRC students whose personal circumstances might mean that they face barriers to going to

university.

A range of opportuni�es are available and addi�onal considera�on may be granted at the admission stage.

https://www.shu.ac.uk/Current‐students/Student‐support/Care‐Leavers/shu‐progress

University of YorkACCESS SCHEME

The aim of The University of York Access Scheme is to improve access to the university for applicants who have faced challenges

social, personal or educa�onal which may have affected their performance in educa�on.

http://www.york.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/applying/access‐scheme/

Page 35

What happens next?A�er processing your applica�on, UCAS will send you a Welcome Email containing your Personal ID, that confirms that your

applica�on has been sent off to your University choices. Please check the informa�on carefully and let them know immediately

if it is not correct by contac�ng the Customer Service Unit on 0371 468 0468. If you haven't received your Welcome Email

within 14 days from sending your applica�on to UCAS please contact the Customer Service Unit.

You will be able to view your applica�on in Track (www.ucas.com/students/track) using your Personal ID and the same password

you used to apply. If you do not know your password, please contact Customer Service Unit. You will be asked to answer some

security ques�ons.

You can use Track to:

Follow the progress of your applica�on. If you click on the course code it will give details of your offer. It may also lead you

to an electronic copy of a decision le�er.

Change your postal address, email address and/or telephone number

Make addi�onal choices of course (if you have not already made 5 choices)

You can swap a choice for a different one within 14 days of the date of your Welcome email within 7 days via Track a�er that

by contac�ng UCAS on the above telephone number

Apply for other courses in Extra (see later note)

Reply to your offers

Withdraw your applica�on

See if you have been accepted, on Alevel Results Day

To login, enter your Personal ID number and password.

Your password is case sensi�ve.

Your password is the same as you used when you made your applica�on online. For security, your password is not printed

on your Welcome Le�er.

After you apply

what happens next?

ResourcesSection

Page 36

Uncondi�onal offers were made to around 40% of applicants in the UK in the 2020 applica�on

cycle. Govt. ministers have pledged to clamp down on them, but here's what you need to know.

Why is this happening?Un�l recently, Higher Educa�on ins�tu�ons had a cap on the numbers they could recruit. The government has now removed this

cap, so ins�tu�ons are now in fiercer compe��on for students. The number of students affects the funding they receive.

Uncondi�onal offers are a consequence of the free market that has been created. They are offered by every type of ins�tu�on.

What is an Unconditional Offer?An Uncondi�onal Offer is usually made to an applicant who has a good GCSE record and is predicted to achieve at least the

required grades for their chosen HE course. It has no condi�ons a�ached and the offer stands even if the applicant does not

pass their examina�ons.

AdvantagesObviously, an Uncondi�onal Offer is very a�rac�ve to students, as you don't need to make an Insurance choice and it's reassuring

if you're doub�ul of your final grades

HOWEVER, THERE ARE DISADVANTAGES WHICH YOU MUST CONSIDER

The main one of these is that you may be tempted to relax your efforts. This would be a big mistake for the following reasons:

Occasionally things don't go to plan. For various reasons you may be unable to take up your offered place. You may start the

course and find it isn't for you. In such circumstances you may need to apply for a change of course or, in excep�onal cases,

leave the university and reapply the following year for something else. If you don't have the grades you won't be able to do

this.

Your results will not reflect your true ability you will be 'behind' your peers at university, and will have wasted the efforts you

have put in so far.

At university you will need to 'hit the ground' fast. Most people will not have had an uncondi�onal offer, and will se�le into

assignments, coursework and exams faster than you. As a new student you will have other things to think about than trying to

catch up, and even a small gap in effort can make a huge difference to performance.

Scholarships and bursaries offered to new students o�en depend on your A level or BTEC grades.

Clearing is not available if you are holding an uncondi�onal offer. This ma�ers even more to less confident students, because

those who do be�er than expected can 'trade up' to a more compe��ve course or university a�er the results come out.

Work placements are offered by most universi�es and can be invaluable in se�ng you up for a graduate job later. When you

apply to employers for these, the only indicator of your ability they will have is your A levels / BTEC results.

Graduate jobs are based on your degree result, and this will eclipse your A level or BTEC results. However, in a number of

professional areas and some larger organisa�ons, Level 3 results or point scores are taken into account as well.

UCAS unconditional offers ‐ friend or foe? ResourcesSection

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UCAS unconditional offers ‐ friend or foe?

STOP!Unconditional Offers should be considered very carefullyRemember, there is no rush to decide on offers the final date for replying is usually in May.

Hold your nerve and see what happens with your other choices – who knows, you may get more than one uncondi�onal offer! In

any case, by April, you should be more confident of the grades you are likely to get and may not actually need the security of an

uncondi�onal offer.

Students who have been predicted good grades are likely to have their place confirmed anyway, even if they miss a grade (or

more than one, in some cases). This is because a student who chose a course and impressed the university may be considered a

be�er prospect than someone who has the grades but applies late.

Points to consider If the offer was CONDITIONAL, would you s�ll choose it? If so, go ahead and take it, but con�nue to work hard to get the

best grades you can.

If you really would prefer to study elsewhere, don't choose it. Aim for what you really want, and take the uncondi�onal offer

as an Insurance offer, if that is allowed.

BE CAREFUL – some universi�es offer an uncondi�onal place only if you accept them as your first choice. If this is the case,

think about the op�ons you are giving up before accep�ng it.

If need be, speak to the Careers Team before taking any ac�on.

Never allow your grades to drop because of an unconditional offer.

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unconditional offers

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However tempting it is, DO NOT accept the first offer made to you, EVEN IF it is an unconditional offer! Wait to hear from ALL your choices.

UCAS will then give you an 'INDIVIDUAL REPLYBY DATE', by which you need to make your decision. This 'Reply by Date' will

appear on your summary page on Track when you receive your final offer.

So, what do I do in the meantime? Try to a�end an Open Day or an Applicant Day (same thing, but for those holding offers) or visit the ins�tu�on which has

made you an offer yourself, before you decide, if you've not already done so.

THINK VERY CAREFULLY before you decide which offers to accept because, once you accept an offer, including an insurance

offer, you are commi�ed to that course (or courses).

YOU MUST DISCUSS IT WITH YOUR PROGRESS TUTOR OR ONE OF THE CAREERS TEAM You can reply to offers without wai�ng to hear back from all your choices. You can cancel all outstanding decisions and reply

to the offers that you have received using Track.

BUT this is NOT at all recommended as courses may be withdrawn during the year. Also you must be 100% certain about the

offers you wish to accept, as once you have made your replies you will not be able to reverse any withdrawals.

If you are replying to a joint condi�onal offer, eg for a degree and HND, you are replying to the whole joint offer when your

exam results are published, the university or college will decide which part of the offer is most suitable for you

Replying to your offersWhen the �me comes, you reply to each offer in one of the following ways:

Firm acceptance

Insurance acceptance

Decline

Firm acceptance

Your firm acceptance is your preferred choice out of all the offers you have received.

You can only have one firm acceptance.

If your is a condi�onal offer you are agreeing that you will a�end the course at that university or college FIRM ACCEPTANCE

if you meet the condi�ons of the offer.

** You should then accept another offer as an Insurance choice (SEE BELOW) **

If your is an uncondi�onal offer (that's one where there are no requirements you have to meet), you are FIRM ACCEPTANCE

agreeing that you will a�end the course at that university or college, so you must decline any other offers.

** UCAS will send you a le�er explaining whether you need to do anything else **

Replying to your UCAS offers

replying to your offers

Very Important!

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Replying to your UCAS offers

Insurance acceptance

If your FIRM ACCEPTANCE is a condi�onal offer, you can accept another offer as an insurance choice. Your insurance choice can

be condi�onal or uncondi�onal and acts as a backup, so if you don't meet the condi�ons for your firm choice but meet the

condi�ons for your insurance, you will be commi�ed to the insurance choice.

You can only have one insurance choice.

The Purpose of an Insurance Choice:

Somewhere that you want to go to

Requires lower entry grades and so can act as a backup, should you not get the grades required for your firm choice.

Could be somewhere that has different GCSE requirements, if you are resi�ng Maths/English GCSE or doing

Numeracy/Literacy Level 2 qualifica�ons.

Decline

Once you have decided which offer to accept firmly and which to accept as an insurance, you must decline all other offers. If you

don't want to accept any of the offers, you can decline them all.

You may then be eligible to use Extra or Clearing, depending upon your circumstances – check with one of the Careers Advisers

before you do this.

To SummariseHow and when to reply to your offers:

Use Track to reply to your offers.

Your reply date will be displayed in Track.

If you don't reply by the date given, your offers will be declined by UCAS. If this happens, call UCAS Customer Contact Centre

immediately.

REMEMBER If you have a Conditional Offer as your Firm Choice, you need to have a lower Insurance Offer in place too!

IF YOU ARE IN ANY DOUBT, PLEASE ASK!

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What is 'EXTRA'?The Extra process is a way of applying to further universi�es or colleges. If you have already made 5 choices, received decisions

from all these choices and you have declined any offers you may have received, you can use the Extra process to apply for other

courses that s�ll have vacancies. You can only apply for in Extra.one course at a �me

The Extra process operates from 25 February each year. Course Search will tell you which courses have vacancies in Extra.

You should also confirm with universi�es and colleges that they can consider you . Most will allow you to before you apply

email a more relevant Personal Statement to them, if you are changing subject area from that on your ini�al applica�on form.

You do not have to wait un�l Clearing to apply for other courses.

You apply for courses in Extra using Track on the UCAS website.

Who is eligible?You will be eligible for Extra if:

you have used all 5 of your choices

AND

you have had unsuccessful or withdrawal decisions for all your choices

OR

you have cancelled your outstanding choices and hold no offers

OR

you have received decisions from all 5 choices and have declined all offers made to you.

Finally for more informa�on speak to one of the Careers Advisers or see the UCAS website www.ucas.com/ there are sec�ons

on 'Track Your Applica�on', 'Types of Offers' and 'Replying to Offers' plus short video clips that you will find helpful.

UCAS ‘EXTRA’

Extra choices

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If you have not logged onto 'Track' via the UCAS website, do so now!

Possible outcomesYou are accepted by your Firm choice

If you are accepted, UCAS will send you a Confirma�on le�er in the post. This le�er confirms that you will be a�ending the

university or college and will explain whether there is anything you need to do now.

You are accepted by your Firm choice AND you meet and exceed the condi�ons of the offer

If you meet and exceed the condi�ons of your Condi�onal Firm choice, you can apply through 'Adjustment', if you wish, to try

and gain a place at an ins�tu�on whose higher entry points/grades you now meet. (See below).

You will, however, also receive a Confirma�on le�er in the post for your Firm choice. If you'd prefer to keep your Firm choice

offer, you should follow the instruc�ons on the le�er. This le�er confirms that you will be a�ending the university or college and

will explain whether there is anything you need to do now.

AdjustmentTo be eligible to use Adjustment:

your results must have met AND exceeded the condi�ons of your Condi�onal Firm (CF) choice

and

you need to have paid the full applica�on fee of £25 (you can pay the addi�onal £5 if need be).

The Adjustment periodAdjustment runs from 13 August to 31 August 2021. However, your individual Adjustment period starts on 13 August or when

your Condi�onal Firm (CF) choice changes to Uncondi�onal Firm (UF), whichever is later. From this �me, you have a maximum of

five calendar days (including Saturdays and Sundays) to register and secure an alterna�ve course, if you decide this is what you

want to do.

If you want to try to find an alterna�ve course you must register to use Adjustment via Track so universi�es and colleges can view

your applica�on.

Further instruc�ons are available on Track.

You receive a 'changed course' offer

If you receive a changed course offer, it means that your university or college has been unable to confirm your place on the

course you accepted because you have not met the original condi�ons, but that they are willing to make an alterna�ve offer. The

change could be a change of course, start date or point of entry. You can reply to a changed course offer in Track and you will

have five days to reply. A�er five days, the offer will be declined automa�cally.

What to do on A Level results day

BRING YOUR UCAS I/D NUMBER

TO COLLEGE WITH YOU

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What to do on A Level results day

You are declined by your Firm choice and are accepted by your Insurance choice

If you are declined by your Firm choice and are accepted by your Insurance choice, it is assumed that you will be a�ending that

ins�tu�on and you will receive a Confirma�on le�er.

You are declined by your Firm choice and don't have an Insurance choice, or you are also declined by your Insurance

choice

If you are declined by your Firm choice (and Insurance choice, if you chose one), you will be entered into Clearing automa�cally

(see below). Log in to 'Track' to view your Clearing Number you can then start looking for another choice.

You are not holding any offers

You may not have any offers because you were declined earlier in the year, you declined any offers received, or you applied a�er

30 June. If you are not holding any offers, you will be entered into Clearing (see below) automa�cally. Log in to 'Track' to view

your Clearing Number as above you can then start looking for another choice.

ClearingGet some advice from the Careers Advisers, who will also be in college on Results Day, or your Progress Tutor.

Key points about Clearing:

You can approach as many universi�es and colleges as you wish during Clearing. Even those who may have rejected you

when you made your ini�al applica�on may now be willing to reconsider you if they have vacancies. Once you have checked

this out, you can get in touch with them. Telephone lines usually open at 6.00 am at each ins�tu�on and FIRST COME, FIRST

SERVED!

Think about the subjects you want to look for in Clearing: you can look for different ones if you want to and it may help to

broaden your area of interest or to look at courses offering combina�ons of subjects.

Think carefully about where you want to study also you will be

spending 3 or 4 years there, so it's really important that are you going

to be happy there.

Official vacancies are published on the UCAS website from

Thursday 13 August onwards.

Full instruc�ons on how to officially proceed through Clearing

are available via Track. Read these very carefully as there are

strict deadlines to meet.

If you think you are likely to need to go through Clearing, start looking at possible courses and ins�tu�ons of interest results day!before

and Clearing

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