1. Applying to study in the UK An introduction to UCAS 1

2. Why choose the UK for your studies? The UK has a long history of welcoming international students Every year 110,000 people from outside the UK apply through UCAS UK Qualifications are recognised and respected throughout the world A UK degree will ensure you are well- placed to secure global employment British universities and colleges provide a multicultural, diverse, creative and inviting environment 2

3. Higher education in the UK Number of institutions Number of courses Number of students accepted in 2012 Over 12% of these were international students 300+ 35,000 464,910 57,519 Teaching Excellence Essential Skills English Language Iconic Culture Creative Industries Multicultural society 3

4. About UCAS 4

5. What is UCAS? UCAS is the organisation responsible for connecting people to UK higher education You can apply for up to five different courses on one UCAS application Applications are made online at www.ucas.com 5

6. The UCAS Website Research courses Find out about universities and colleges Read blogs from international students See entry requirements Make and track your application UCAS Tariff Guidance Statistics Parents Advice Plus... Video guides 6

7. Research – Additional sources UCAS Publications Open Days/Taster Courses British Council events Unistats – unistats.direct.gov.uk Meeting uni/college reps in your own country Or find us online at: www.facebook.com/ucasonline www.twitter.com/ucas_online www.youtube.com/ucasonline www.ucasconnect.com/blogs 7

8. 8 When to apply 1 SeptemberFirst day for receipt of applications 15 OctoberMedicine, Veterinary and Dentistry, Oxford or Cambridge 15 JanuaryAdvisory application deadline 24 MarchMany art & design courses (check each course for deadline) 30 JuneApplications after this date held for Clearing

9. The UCAS Application 9

10. 10 The UCAS application process

11. References can be done by your school or college, or by someone who knows you well. Every applicant has to complete: Personal details Student finance (UK and EU only) Choices Education Employment Personal statement A reference Making a UCAS application 11

12. 12 Personal Statement Gives you the chance to tell universities and colleges why they should want you as a student Every personal statement should be unique. Just keep in mind that it’s your chance to sell yourself What you might include: Why you want to study in the UK Evidence to show you can complete a higher education course taught in English Examples of leadership, communication skills or other relevant experience Any preparation you have done for the course

13. Institutions may also request an interview, ask to see your portfolio or ask you to take admissions tests Decision - making by institutions An admissions tutor may make one of three decisions: Unconditional offer Conditional offer Unsuccessful Or they may offer a place on an alternative course 13

14. Track You can see what’s happening with your application, like whether you’ve received any offers and the replies you’ve made. Enables you to follow the progress of your application (24/7, access via password) Quickest way to find out about new offers Shows choices, offers, personal information You can reply to offers online Track is our online system that allows you to follow the progress of your application 14

15. Applicant replies to offers Once the final decision has been received from your chosen institutions, a maximum of two offers may be held. Applicants have a choice of three reply options: Firm acceptance – Your first choice Insurance acceptance – Optional. Acts as a back-up Decline the offer If all decisions and replies are made and you are not holding a place, you may be able to use UCAS Extra or Clearing to find available places. See www.ucas.com for details. 15

16. Other things to consider 16

17. English language requirements The university or college you choose will tell you what standard of English you need Most will require you to demonstrate proficiency in English or take an English language test Look at their website or contact their admissions or international office to find out which tests are acceptable Available tests include ESOL, IELTS and TOEFL 17

18. Other things to consider Finance – Course fees, travel and living costs Immigration/visas – visit www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk Travel – to and from your country, and within the UK Accommodation – Uni halls or private residences?...are you ready to ‘go it alone’? Living away from home... 18

19. Or call our Customer Contact Centre on: +44 330 333 0230 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 – 18:00 (UK time) For more information Ask us a question online: www.ucas.com Or find us on: 19