Everything you must know for a perfect UCAS application
Applying for university is one of the biggest decisions in your life. However, rest assured, if you’re struggling to get to grips with the UCAS application process, help is at hand.
The UK is one of the world’s most popular destinations to study higher education, as well as one of the top choices for international students. In fact, UK universities are among the best in the world – so it comes as no surprise that competition for places can become fierce.
So, how do you land a place at your dream university? It all begins with the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) application process.
Read on and watch the adjacent video to learn more about crafting the perfect UCAS application to make sure you stand out, and discover how our experts will provide you with unmatched UCAS application support at every stage of the process…
5 things you must know for a perfect UCAS application
1. UCAS and key deadlines
Generally speaking, the main application deadlines are in October and January, depending on the chosen course and/or university. However, some universities, such as Oxford and Cambridge, as well as specialist courses such as medicine or veterinary science, may have earlier deadlines.
Whichever university you decide to apply for though, the earlier you start your application, the greater your chances of success will be! Although applications for 2023 entry will soon be closing, there’s no time like the present to start preparing for your 2024 application!
How William Clarence will help: We will make recommendations well in advance of the UCAS registration date so that you have plenty of time to work on your application.
2. University and course selection
In the UK, there are over 50,000 courses to choose from, so when it comes to choosing the right one for you, the key is to have fun researching, attend plenty of open days, and check entry requirements to ensure you are eligible.
However, it’s important to note that you cannot apply for two different courses at the same university, and you cannot apply to Oxford and Cambridge in the same year either.
If you aren’t sure which university or course is right for you, the UCAS website has a useful course search tool to help you out.
How William Clarence will help: By organising a programme of subject-specific wider reading to develop your curiosity and engagement.
3. The UCAS form
Once you have selected your five university choices, you will then need to fill out a UCAS form with your personal details and other essential information.
How William Clarence will help: We will provide dedicated support to ensure that you fill out the form appropriately.
4. The personal statement
Your personal statement is one of the most important parts of your application - and with a maximum of 47 lines or 4,000 characters to play with, it’s really important that your personal statement stands out!
You can only write one personal statement, and you’ll need to alter your approach depending on if you’ve chosen similar subjects or a variety of different subjects to make sure your personal statement is relevant.
If you’re not sure where to begin, be sure to read our blog to discover five steps to a standout personal statement.
How William Clarence will help: We will provide you with comprehensive guidance on drafting your personal statement.
5. The final steps
Last but not least, to complete your UCAS application, you will need a reference from a teacher or another professional – so be sure to pick someone who knows you well!
Once your form is completed, make sure you are prepared for potential interviews, additional written work, or admissions tests.
Finally, remember that your offers from universities are likely to be conditional, meaning your place will not be confirmed until you receive your A-Level (or equivalent) results.
How William Clarence will help: By offering any necessary tailored support with any additional application steps.
Need further help and advice?
Every year at William Clarence, we work with families from the UK and around the world, providing unbiased advice on the best courses and universities for every student.
For more information on any of the above or to arrange a consultation with William Clarence to discuss UCAS application support, get in touch with our education experts today.
Contact us on 0207 412 8988 to discuss your particular needs, or email info@williamclarence.com. Plus, in the meantime, don’t miss our 10 top tips for a brilliant UCAS application for further help and advice.
