Here you can find out about applying direct to universities, i.e. not through UCAS. This is mostly for applications to postgraduate degrees.
For most undergraduate programmes, you will apply through UCAS. However, for some courses, you will need, or have the option, to make a direct application. These include:
- Most postgraduate courses (Masters and Doctorates).
- Some postgraduate degrees and all PGCE courses take applications through UCAS.
- Courses with non-standard start dates (e.g. January entry).
- Courses specifically for international students such as International Year One (IY1).
- Degrees at a handful of (mostly newer) institutions such as Hult International Business School. For these, direct application is usually an option, although they also accept UCAS applications.
To make a direct application, you should go to the specific university website. Sometimes you will need to go to the course page for the programme you wish to apply for; sometimes there will be an ‘Apply Now’ button on the university homepage. In either case, you may need to look around the website a bit to find the button you need.
You will then complete an online application form and upload documents such as your personal statement and sometimes a CV. Unlike UCAS, you will need to do this for each university where you are making a direct application. The disadvantage of this is that you have to complete multiple forms, often with the same boring details. The advantage is that you can tailor your application, especially the personal statement to the exact course you are applying for.
Because direct application is organized by each institution individually, the exact application process and format may vary from one university to another.
If you need any help with the application form or if you are not sure whether you should apply direct or through UCAS, speak to your Application Workshop teacher or your programme manager.