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Applying to university can be overwhelming, but if you break it down it's actually not that bad! We're here to talk you through the five steps to completing your UCAS application so you don't have to stress about what might come up on the form, or how you even find the application form.
CONTENTS
- Step 1: Register with UCAS Hub
- Step 2: Fill out the details in your application
- Step 3: Write your personal statement
- Step 4: Get a reference
- Step 5: Submit your application
Step 1: Register with UCAS Hub
The first step on your journey to university is to register with UCAS Hub. This free online platform has everything you need for making your application, as well as loads of information on subjects, courses, personal statements and CV writing.
It’s easy to sign up and use. Just fill out your details on the registration page, then once you’ve verified your account you can browse courses and other helpful content.
Read our full guide to applying through UCAS.
Step 2: Fill out all your details in your application
Your application is made online through UCAS Hub. You don’t need to complete it all at once, but make sure you save as you go as there’s lots to do!
You’ll be asked to fill out a number of sections, including information on:
- Your residency status
- Monitoring questions – these are just for UK students and will include things like your ethnicity and national identity. The information you give won’t affect the outcome of your application, as it’s only shared after you’ve accepted a place
- Personal circumstances including your parental education or if you’ve ever been in care – this helps universities provide you with the right support
- How you’re planning on funding your studies (although you’ll need to apply for student finance separately)
- Your education history, qualifications and any results you’re still awaiting
- Your employment history
- Up to five course choices – the order you choose doesn’t matter, and the institutions won’t see where else you’ve applied until after you reply to any offers
Step 3: Write your personal statement
Your personal statement is one of the most important parts of your application. To help you get started it’s a good idea to look at the websites of the unis you’re applying to. They might have tips or example statements you can take inspiration from.
In general, tutors are looking for
- Commitment and passion for your chosen subject
- Existing knowledge of your subject, shown through previous study and qualifications
- Good writing skills with the ability to communicate fluently in English (or Welsh if you’re applying for courses in Wales)
- A positive attitude to learning and personal development
- Enthusiasm for university life
As every uni you apply to will see the same statement, it needs to work for multiple universities and not be too specific. Most places will be looking for similar qualities from potential students, so you can tailor your statement in this way.
Things you do want to be specific about, however, are your personal and academic achievements. Unis will want to know what topics you’ve covered, especially material relevant to the course you’re applying for.
They’ll also be interested in your hobbies and extracurricular activities, showing you’ll engage well with both academic studies and other areas of university life. Depending on your own experience, this might include volunteering, sports, involvement in school clubs or a part-time job. We recommend your statement should be about 80% academic achievements and 20% extracurricular activities.
The tone of your statement should be enthusiastic, polite and professional. When you’ve finished, ask a friend, parent or teacher to give their opinion and proofread for you. Check, check and check again!
For more detailed advice, check out our ultimate guide on how to write the best personal statement.
Step 4: Get a reference
Along with your statement you’ll also need a reference from a teacher or other academic professional. It should be someone who can talk about your suitability for undergraduate studies. If you’ve been away from education for a long time, you can also ask your employer, a volunteer supervisor or trainer. You can’t ask family or friends. If you do, your application could be rejected.
The written reference might include things like
- Your career goals
- Your work experience
- Your achievements in specific courses or modules
- With your permission, any challenges you’ve faced which might have affected your academic work – this might include illness or personal circumstances that impacted your grades
As you can see, it’s important your referee knows you well. You might like to arrange a chat with them before they start writing your reference so you can discuss the above points together.
Nearly everyone needs a reference to be able to submit their application. If you don’t want to include one, you’ll need to get permission from your chosen universities.
Step 5: Submit your application
Once you’ve completed all the sections, written a winning personal statement and sorted your reference, you’ll need to pay an application fee. For 2024 entry this fee costs £27.50.
Depending on the course, you may also be asked to attend an interview or audition, or you might need to send a copy of your portfolio. All of these may entail extra costs, either payable through UCAS or directly to the university. You’ll be told how much these fees are during the application.
When all fees have been paid, it’s time to click submit. Good luck!
Still unsure where to apply? Why not book onto an open day to help you pick your five course options.
