Apply 2017 – how to apply...

UCAS Undergraduate Apply 2017 is now up and running – so you can start filling in your application, ready to send it on its way to the universities in September. Even though your application deadline may seem ages away, it’s worth registering as early as possible to save any last minute dramas. If you’re unsure where you want to go or what you want to study, you don’t need to select your universities or courses just yet.

However, you can start by filling in the other sections so you’re ahead of the game. So, where do you begin?

Getting started
Before you can start your application you need to register. When you register you’ll need to answer some basic questions about yourself.  We’ll give you a username and you’ll also be asked to create a password.

Personal details
Once you sign in, you’ll see a page like this:

This section requires you to fill in some personal details about yourself. If you’re unsure what to put in, click on the red question mark at the end of the question for some help.

Education
This section’s where you need to add any schools or colleges you’ve attended, from the age of 13 onwards, along with the qualifications you’ve taken. It’s worth having your certificates to hand as they’ll be useful if you’re unsure of any of the details, such as your awarding bodies. There’s quite a lot of info you need to add here so we’ve created this video to help you.


Personal statement
The personal statement section is your chance to show why you want to attend uni and study that course – in 4,000 characters, or 47 lines. We’ve got plenty of tools to help you perfect your personal statement. Try out our personal statement tool, personal statement timeline, and check out the advice from admissions staff from uni and colleges about what to include.

Reference
You need a reference before your application can be sent. This should be from a current or previous teacher, but can be from someone who knows you in a professional capacity, such as an employer.

Your referee can’t be a family member or friend.

There are a couple of ways to get a reference – read on to see which is the right way for you.

i) If you’re applying through your school or college: 

When you register, if you select that you’re applying through your school or college, you’ll be asked to enter a buzzword. This will link your application to your school or college, so your teacher can write your reference. They’ll also be able to look over your application and help you along the way. And when the time comes, they’ll send it to us on your behalf.

ii) If you’re applying independently: 

There are a couple of ways to get a reference if you’re applying independently. If your previous school or college is happy to complete a reference, in the ‘Options’ section select ‘ask a registered school, college or centre to write a reference only’. This route needs a buzzword from the school or college – so you’d have to discuss it with them.

Alternatively, you can enter your referee’s contact details in the reference section. We’ll then send them an email with instructions on what to do. If you want to do this, make sure you ask your referee if they’ll be able to provide you with a reference before you send them a request. Once they’ve completed it, we’ll email you, and the reference section will be marked with a red tick.

Good luck with your application! 

If you have any questions about applying then have a look on our website. You can also get in touch with our advisers on Facebook or Twitter and they’ll do their best to help.