UCAS

UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is the UK’s central organisation that manages applications to higher education. Instead of applying to each university separately, students apply through one online UCAS application.

What UCAS does

  • Allows students to apply to up to five university courses in one application
  • Collects and sends applications to universities and colleges
  • Manages offers, acceptances, and replies
  • Provides tools like course search, entry requirements, and application tracking
  • How students apply to university through UCAS

Students will be introduced to UCAS during their Transition & Careers lessons with their Head of Year. We will support students throughout each stage of their UCAS application, from writing their personal statement to selecting their university choices. 

We do not expect every student to complete a UCAS application and offer bespoke support to those wanting to explore other post-18 pathways.

My child wants to make a UCAS application, what are the stages?

  1. Create a UCAS account
    Students register on the UCAS website and fill in personal details (this is done in Transition & Careers lessons as applications need to be linked to Bishop Stopford School).
  2. Choose courses
    They select up to five courses (at the same or different universities).
  3. Write a personal statement
    This explains why they want to study the subject and why they are suitable.
  4. Add qualifications and experience
    Students list GCSEs, predicted grades, and any relevant work experience.
  5. The school will provide a reference
    Written by subject teachers and checked by the Sixth Form Team.
  6. Submit and pay the fee
    UCAS sends the application to the chosen universities. If your child is in receipt of free school meals this fee is wavered.
  7. Receive offers
    Universities reply with offers (conditional or unconditional).
  8. Respond to offers
    Students choose a firm and insurance option.
  9. Confirm place
    Once results are received, UCAS confirms the university place.

Throughout each of the above stages, students will receive support from the Sixth Form Team.