UCAS: A Guide to Unconditional Offers

An unconditional means…? We want unconditional offers to be used in exceptional circumstances and as a last resort. Sam Gyimah, Universities Minister

Welcome, parents! The purpose of this evening is to provide you with a better understanding of: Why universities make Unconditional offers and what this actually means What to do if your son/daughter is in receipt of such an offer What to do next

Why do universities make these offers and what do they mean? Having spoken to admissions advisors, they literally are unconditional – no requirement to even get a grade; they will accept U grades In total, over 87,540 applicants received at least one unconditional offer in 2018 – over 1/3 of all 18 year old applicants (and 1/7 of all applicants). In 2013, this number was just 2,570 (so there's been a massive increase since).

Just a few examples but can include Russell group too Nottingham Trent Sheffield Hallam Lincoln University Lancaster University Derby University Oxford Brookes University

Reduced requirement offers “We are delighted to make you a reduced offer of 104 UCAS tariff points because you are a strong candidate and we think Oxford Brookes is the place for you.” Sometimes there are cash incentives (extra bursaries ) and tempting accommodation/ equipment promises.

Why students might accept The assumed removal of stress and anxiety over preparing for exams, pressure off panic about any coursework, a clear decision about destination, ‘get on with life’. If they think that their predicted grades may be too high or that they won’t get in to a uni with what they fear they might achieve. Peer pressure and what friends say.

It’s not necessarily a bad thing??? But – what if it means you don’t work your utmost to attain the very highest grades you are capable of at A level? What if you get to the uni and decide to swap courses or re- apply to another uni? What are they basing their offer on – GCSE performance, predicted A level grades, school reference and personal statement – plus – their need to plan for filled courses, income from tuition fees, accommodation fees, their own PR for foreign students etc, competition with the uni ‘down the road’. But it could be WIN/WIN if you wanted to go and still do well at A levels to keep options open and that follow you throughout life.

If an Unconditional Offer has been made… Is it your first choice university? If it is, go for it! If not, have you visited there? Go and see what it’s like. Do not think you have to wait for an open day. Beware! Don’t feel you have to simply accept, tempting as that may be, if it’s not what you really want.

Challenges within school Sometimes, receiving and accepting these offers can lead to a ‘foot off the gas’ reaction – reduced effort, attendance, etc. However, largely we buck that trend, given the nature of our students. Perhaps a loss of confidence and even cynicism about higher education.

The Three Cs We advise students who have accepted unconditional offers to stay focussed for the following reasons: Currency – A Levels are important later in life – what if you end up disliking the course and wanting to switch to a different university? Character – shows your resilience and determination Culture – Here at Walton, we encourage students to do well for themselves (self- esteem) and for you - their parents!

What happens next? If you have received offers from everywhere you have applied to, accept the one you really want to go to and an insurance offer. There is a formal expectation but no ‘gun to the head’. Don’t sit back and think that’s it for school and A levels other than pride. Don’t automatically assume all will pan out for the best. Be proactive. Look at accommodation, student finance and bursaries.

Questions? I am happy to answer any questions you may have now. Should anything occur to you at a later time, please do not hesitate to contact me for further advice: a.silverwood@walton.staffs.sch.uk

Handouts Please ensure that you take one of our timelines away with you this evening for reference over the coming months