UCAS Applications 2026/27

Applying to university is an exciting step towards your future education and career. The Sixth Form team will support you throughout the UCAS application process, from researching courses and universities to submitting your application and responding to offers.

Below is a range of useful resources and guidance to help you at every stage of the application journey.

Before You Apply

Before submitting an application, it is important to carry out thorough research to ensure that you choose the course and university that best suits your interests, aspirations, and career goals.

Useful links:

• Advice for parents, guardians and carers | UCAS
• Researching university options | UCAS
• How to pay for uni | UCAS
• University Open Days | Visit Universities and Colleges | UCAS
• What and where to study at a University, College or Conservatoire
• Student Finance And Support Available | UCAS

Students are strongly encouraged to attend university open days, speak to admissions teams, and research entry requirements before making their final choices.

Completing Your UCAS Application

Your UCAS application is your opportunity to showcase your academic achievements, skills, interests, and future ambitions.

Helpful guidance:

• Applying to University - learn about everything involved
• Dates and deadlines for uni applications | UCAS
• Learn all about filling in your UCAS application for uni
• University Entry Requirements | UCAS
• Writing your personal statement | UCAS

Our Sixth Form team will provide dedicated support with:

• Personal statement planning and proofreading
• Course and university selection
• Admissions test preparation where required
• Interview preparation
• Application timeline management

Oxbridge, Medicine and Competitive Courses

Students applying for Oxford, Cambridge, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, and other highly competitive courses will receive additional support through our OAT Co-ordinator, including:

• Early application guidance
• Admissions test preparation
• Mock interviews
• Specialist subject mentoring
• Personal statement workshops

Students considering these pathways should inform their tutor as early as possible.

After You Submit Your Application

Once your UCAS application has been submitted, universities will begin making decisions. You may receive:

• Conditional offers
• Unconditional offers
• Invitations to interview or assessment days
• Unsuccessful decisions

You will then need to respond to your offers by selecting a Firm Choice and an Insurance Choice through UCAS.

UCAS Extra

If you are not successful in receiving offers from your original five choices, or you choose to decline all your offers, you may be eligible to apply for additional courses through UCAS Extra.

Useful link:

• UCAS Extra

This service allows students to add further choices before Clearing becomes available.

Results Day, Clearing and Adjustment

Following publication of your examination results, UCAS provides support through the Clearing process.

Useful link:

• Clearing and results day | UCAS

Clearing can help students who:

• Have not secured a university place
• Have exceeded their expected grades and wish to explore other opportunities
• Decide to apply to university after the main application cycle

The Sixth Form team will be available on Results Day to offer advice and guidance regarding university places, clearing opportunities, and alternative pathways.

Alternative Post-18 Pathways

University is only one of many progression routes available. Students may also wish to consider:

• Degree Apprenticeships
• Higher Apprenticeships
• Employment with Training
• Further Education and Specialist Colleges
• Gap Year Opportunities

Students should discuss all available progression routes with their tutor, the Sixth Form team or careers adviser to ensure they make the most suitable choice for their future.