UCAS
Applying to the majority of Higher Education courses, including nursing from 2008 entry, is done through UCAS (The University and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS is a centralised system that allows you to apply to up to 5 courses on one form. Your applications are concurrent (this means they are all considered at the same time, without any reference to each other). Consequently you can receive up to 5 offers of a place.
When all your choices have replied you have to narrow down to a maximum of 2 offers. You decide on a first (or firm) offer and a second (insurance) offer.
There are two separate elements within the UCAS system: a Specialist scheme for most Art and Design courses, and a Standard one for all other courses.
- Standard applications begin in September and the main closing date is in January (but most people apply well before then).
- The Specialist Art and Design scheme has two routes, A and B, which allow applicants to apply at different times of the year to allow time to develop a portfolio.
For help with your UCAS application, try going to the Your UCAS form page.
CUKAS
For applications to practice-based music courses at the 7 UK conservatoires. Applications are required very early, starting in July and ending by October.
Direct applications
There are a few colleges that take direct applications – for example some specialist Dance and Drama courses and the Art Foundation Course at local colleges. You should contact them direct for guidance on how to apply.
Don’t miss closing dates – look at the timeline on the next page for more information.
