Applying to university
Applying to university is an exciting yet nerve-wracking process for students across the UK. From choosing your dream course to perfecting your personal statement, there’s a lot to think about—but we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Whether you’re navigating the UCAS application system or seeking advice on acing your interviews, our comprehensive guides are designed to make the process smoother. With expert advice, practical tips, and insights from current students, you’ll feel confident about taking this important step toward your future. No matter where you are in your application journey, we’ve got the tools and support to help you succeed.
Understanding the application process is the first step in getting into your dream university. We break down everything from choosing your courses to submitting your application via UCAS, so you’re always one step ahead. Stay organised, meet the key deadlines, and make sure your application stands out for all the right reasons.
Applying to university doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and we’re here to make the process as stress-free as possible. From decoding UCAS terminology to offering advice on applications for scholarships and student finance, our resources are designed to help you every step of the way. If you’re feeling stuck, we’ve got plenty of expert advice and practical solutions to get you back on track.
UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is the central system used to apply to universities in the UK. You’ll create an account, fill in your personal details, choose up to five courses, write a personal statement, and submit references. Once your application is sent, UCAS communicates with universities on your behalf, letting you track offers and make decisions.
The main deadline for UCAS applications is 31 January, but some courses (like medicine, dentistry, and veterinary) and universities (such as Oxford and Cambridge) have earlier deadlines, typically around mid-October. Always double-check deadlines for your chosen courses to ensure you don’t miss out!
Yes, you can swap your course choices within 14 days of submitting your application, provided the deadlines haven’t passed. However, if you’re applying for different courses, it’s a good idea to contact the universities directly to ensure your personal statement is still relevant.
If you don’t receive offers, you can apply for more courses through UCAS Extra, which runs from February to July, or wait for Clearing to open in the summer. Don’t panic—there are always opportunities to find a course that fits your goals.
No, if you’ve applied through UCAS, your school or college will usually send your results directly to UCAS, who will pass them on to the universities. However, if you’re applying as an independent candidate, you may need to send your results directly to the universities.
Got more questions? Check out our University application FAQ Hub for answers written by real students.
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Featured student writers
Hi I’m Sophie! I’m a creative writing student currently studying in London. I love writing both fiction ranging from short stories to flash fiction and non-fiction consisting mainly of book reviews. In my spare time aside from writing fiction I'm usually head down into a book or two.
Top tip for students? You deserve to be exactly where you are and deserve to want more. Always be willing to take on opportunities that will help you move forward in your career.
Hi I'm Mia, a History & Sociology Student studying in Manchester. My current favourite hobby is taking photos of rave culture at events with my friends in the city, as an EDM music lover myself. I love to post my pictures on my personal blog and fall into wormholes on Pinterest. If I'm not with a camera in hand, I'm probably curled up with a cuppa creating another vision board collage.
Top tip for students? Don't let bad grades in your first year get you down too much. It is such a huge step up from the school system and everyone, even the overachievers (me) need time to adjust. Academic validation isn't everything, but you are capable of anything if you take it one step at a time!
Hi, I'm Rachel! I'm a student at the University of Exeter and I study French and International Relations. When I'm not doing my seminar prep, I'm either reading a good fiction book, listening to a pop culture podcast or on the New York Times website! I enjoy writing the articles and guides I wished I had when I first started university.
Top tip for students? Make use of your professors' office hours as much as you can!
Hi, I'm Aiden! I'm a student at the University of Manchester studying Medicine! I'm passionate about writing and sharing my experiences to try and keep students well-informed. When I'm not in lecture or at the library, you can find me spending time with my friends, hiking on a scenic trail in the Peak District or in my flat's common room writing with a snack in hand.
Top tip for students? Ask why and how, and link new material to things you already know; don't just commit things to memory. A deeper understanding will help you remember, apply, and perform better.
Hi I’m Thea! I'm an undergrad anthropology student at the SOAS. I love all things pop culture, going to concerts, journaling and reading romance books.
Top tip for students? Time management is key - waiting until the deadline to start your assignment will only make your life harder (trust me I would know).
I'm Lola, an English Literature student in Bangor University. I'm passionate about Wesh culture, and poetry.
Top tip for students? Always make sure you find a good study space! It'll help you get your work done easier.
Hiya! I'm Jessica and I'm studying English at Ulster University where I spend most of my days trying out the local coffee shops with a good book in hand. My course allows me to do the thing I love (reading) both inside and outside of the classroom!
Top tip for students? Get involved! This is a fantastic way to make friends as well as elevate your uni experience.
I’m currently an English and Classics student in Birmingham. I’m an avid reader, and I love everything from modern French classics to ancient Greek poetry. In my free time, I also like gaming, art, and listening to music with my trusty noise-cancelling headphones!
Top tip for students? Try as many new things as you can! It may seem intimidating, especially if you’re in a new place or on your own, but stepping outside your comfort zone can lead you to discover things you love.
Hi I'm Emily and I'm a journalism student currently studying at Sheffield Hallam University. I've been in love with writing since I was ten, back when all my stories involved vampires. These days, I love writing about the realities of student life - sharing honest experiences and perspectives to help others. I'm also a big fan of long walks, live music, and Wes Anderson films!
Top tip for students? It's okay to take your time - university might feel weird at first, but it will settle. Go at your own pace and prioritise your mental health.
Hi, I'm Tori! I'm a recent Business & Management graduate from UWE Bristol. I'm an avid concert attendee outside (and alongside...) my studies, with my favourite genre being K-pop! As I take my first steps into a professional career, I'm using writing to bridge the transition between full-time academic writing to a corporate lifestyle.
Top tip for students? Don't get complacent! University might seem to take a step back and seem more chill than college but it's never too early to prepare for things, and there aren't always times when you will be prompted to start, so stay vigilant, and stay ahead. Good luck!
Hi! I’m Bea, and I’m a master’s student, studying History at Durham University. When I’m not studying or writing, you can usually find me listening to music, trying new recipes, or getting involved with theatre at uni. I love all things arts and culture, and will get involved at any opportunity.
Top tip for students? Throw yourself into everything! If it interests you, give it a go - you never know where new opportunities will take you.