UCAS application deadlines are approaching very fast, if you are not considering on time you can miss your chance to apply to university. If you’re considering applying to university in 2023, you’ll need to have a good understanding of the UCAS deadline and application process.
I will take you through everything you need to know about the UCAS deadline for 2024, including how UCAS works, key dates, and tips for preparing your application and accepting offers.
Let’s jump in and read carefully.
TLTR;
- UCAS application opens on 5 September 2023
- The UCAS deadline for most courses is 31 January 2024
- UCAS Oxbridge deadline is on 16 October 2023
- Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary UCAS deadline is on 16 October 2023
- If you miss the deadline, try Clearing or UCAS Extra service
What is UCAS?
UCAS is the centralised organisation responsible for managing all university applications in the United Kingdom. UCAS allows applicants to apply for up to five courses at five different universities or colleges using a single application form. Here you can learn more about how to choose a university course.
How UCAS Works for Applicants
The first step in the UCAS process is researching and selecting the courses and universities that you’re interested in applying for.
Once you’ve decided which courses you’d like to apply for, you can start filling out your application form on the UCAS Hub.
Your application will include your personal details, academic qualifications, and a personal statement explaining why you want to do the course.
After you’ve submitted your UCAS application, the universities will review your application and make offers based on your predicted grades, qualifications, personal statement, reference letter and other relevant factors.
You can choose to accept or decline offers as they come in.
If you need help read our step-by-step guide:
The Role of Universities
Each university or college has its admission guideline and sets its entry requirements for admission. These entry requirements typically include A-level grades, predicted grades, personal statements, and reference letters from your teachers.
To meet specific entry criteria for the chosen course, try to research entry requirements on time. Don’t hesitate to contact the university and admission staff for specific courses for more information. This is especially valuable for programmes in medicine or dentistry.
UCAS Deadlines for 2024 Entry
When UCAS Application Starts
For early UCAS applicants, you can start your undergraduate application on 16 May 2023. You can work on the application, write your UCAS personal statement, choose courses and add the necessary information.
Keep in mind you will not be able to apply to UCAS before 5 September 2023. That’s the date when the official application starts.
Applying early can give you an edge in the application process and help secure your place in your preferred course. Some universities will start sending offers as soon as they receive applications. Keep in mind this is not common practice for all universities.
When Is Ucas Deadline in 2024?
The main UCAS application deadline is on 31 January 2024.
This deadline applies to the majority of courses and universities and marks the end of the main application period.
While you can continue to apply after the main deadline, your application will be considered a second priority.
It’s important to note that international students can apply after 31 January 2023 for most of the universities in the UK. Read more about UCAS Application Process for International Students.
UCAS Deadline for Oxbridge
UCAS’s deadline for Oxbridge is different from the other universities. Due to its popularity, prestigious status and highly competitive admission process, the deadline for Oxbridge is earlier, on 16 October 2023.
If you miss this deadline you can’t apply for 2024 entry anymore.
UCAS Deadline for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary
For applicants in Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary, UCAS opens on 5 September 2023.
The final date and deadline to apply is 16 October 2023.
UCAS Clearing and Adjustment Deadlines
UCAS Clearing and the Adjustment period is when universities and colleges fill any remaining places they may have for a particular course.
Clearing typically begins in July, and adjustment follows after A-level results day. If you haven’t received any offers on Results Day, you can use Clearing to find another course that suits your interests and abilities.
Recommended guides:
How to Prepare For UCAS Key Dates?
Choosing the Right Course and University
The first step in preparing your UCAS application is to research your options and select the right course and university for your interests and abilities.
You’ll want to consider factors such as the course content, the location, the facilities, and the employment outcomes.
Writing a Standout Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to convince the admissions tutors that you’re the best candidate for the course.
Be sure to explain why you’re interested in the course and how your experiences and skills make you a suitable candidate. It’s important to be specific and demonstrate a genuine interest in the subject.
Check our guides to better understand personal statements:
- UCAS Personal Statement: A Writing Guide And Tips For Success
- How to Write a Personal Statement
- Personal Statement Examples UK
- Tips for Writing a Personal Statement for the University
Get a Teacher Reference Letter
Your teachers or tutors will be responsible for providing your Reference letter, so it’s essential to build a good rapport with them and ensure they’re aware of your future plans.
They should be able to attest to your academic ability, work ethic, and potential for future success. Read our guide to better understand the UCAS reference letter.
Meeting Entry Requirements and Predicted Grades
Most courses require specific A-level grades or equivalent qualifications for admission. It’s essential to ensure that you’re predicted to achieve these grades and that you’re meeting any other entry requirements, such as language proficiency or practical assessments.
You will find all this information in the course description or on the websites of the universities.
What After Submitting Your UCAS Application?
Receiving and Responding to Offers
After submitting your UCAS application, you’ll start receiving offers from the universities you’ve applied to.
You can choose to accept, decline or defer offers depending on your preferences and circumstances.
If you receive multiple offers, choose wisely your best option.
Take your Entry Exams
In most of the courses, Law, Engineering, Medicine, etc, you will need to pass the test required by the university. For example, for a Law course, this is usually the LNAT test, and for the Medicine BMAT test or UCAT exam.
Preparing for University Interviews
Some courses and universities require interviews as part of the admissions process, so it’s essential to prepare beforehand. This is the case with Oxbridge applications, Medicine, and Dentistry.
Research the course and the university, practice your interview skills and learn about the key skills and attributes that the university is looking for.
UCAS Extra & Clearing
If you haven’t received any offers on Results Day, you can use UCAS Extra or Clearing to apply for alternative courses and universities.
Furthermore, UCAS Extra allows you to apply for additional courses, while Clearing lists available courses and universities for you to consider.
It’s important to keep an open mind and consider all available options. Read more in our guides:
Planning for Results Day
Results Day can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it’s important to remember that there are always alternative routes to achieving your goals.
Whether you’ve received an offer, been rejected, or haven’t received an offer, it’s essential to have a plan in place.
Consider alternative courses, gap years, or apprenticeships, and don’t be afraid to seek advice from career advisors or university admissions tutors.
What if your application is rejected? Consider applying to university after a gap year.
Final Thoughts on UCAS Deadlines
Applying to a university in the UK through UCAS can be a seamless and easy process with the right research, preparation, and application. Remember to keep on top of the key UCAS deadlines, choose the right course and university for you, and ensure that your application meets all the entry requirements and predicted grades.