Applying to university

Taking you through the process

The process of applying to university may seem a little daunting. The more you know about the process and the more research you do the better prepared you will be. There are three main stages you should be aware of - information gathering or research, applying and enrolling.

Information gathering

Before you start applying to universities you will need to do some research and information gathering to weigh up the options available and find what is right for you. You will need to think about where to study, what to study and whether you have the suitable qualifications.

Checklist:

• Research course/career options - Research your course carefully as it is likely to influence your future career - see course options for some food for thought. You may also find it helpful to speak to a careers adviser in your school or college or friends and family who have been through the process.
  UWE course search - search from over 250 undergraduate UWE courses
  UCAS course search - search HE courses from all UK Universities and Colleges.

• Request a prospectus - requests can usually be made over the phone, online or by e-mailing the University.
  Request a UWE prospectus

• Attend a UCAS Higher Education fair - a comprehensive list of UK HE Conventions can be found online. These events are held throughout the UK between March and July.

• Register for a University Open Day - Open days run throughout the year and offer the chance to speak to tutors and current students and generally get a 'feel' for the University.
  Register for a UWE Open Day

Applying

Application deadline

15 January 2010 (with the exception of Oxford and Cambridge applications, dentistry and veterinary science applications - visit the UCAS website for these deadlines).

The application process usually starts the September prior to the year of entry. Once you have made your decision you will submit your application to UCAS, by the following January, to a maximum of five shortlisted universities.

Personal statement

Schools and Colleges will work with students to ensure their personal statement is completed correctly and to offer advice along the way. UCAS also provides useful guidance on writing your personal statement.

Clearing

For those students who don't get the grades they were hoping for or decide late in the process to apply for a university course they could always find a course through 'Clearing'. This system enables an applicant who has not yet secured a place to apply for University course vacancies - see UCAS Clearing pages for further information.

• UWE Bristol Clearing

UCAS

UCAS is an invaluable resource when applying to university. Here you will find a timetable of key dates in the application process, information on getting started and all those alien terms explained.

• UCAS for students
• UCAS for parents

Enrolling (or registering)

Once the application process is complete and you meet the conditions of your offer from your chosen university, the enrolment process or registration can begin. At UWE this is done online prior to the start date - leaving the first day free for socialising and getting to know your new home. See how we welcome new students to UWE.

Between applying and enrolling it is advisable to investigate accommodation options and any financial considerations such as tuition fees, loans, grants and bursaries - see money matters. Much of the information gathering can be done online or at a university Open Day.