Getting ready to apply: useful dates

Everyone does their research and makes their application in slightly different ways and at different times, but here are a few guidelines for your calendar:

What: Decide what course and where
Visit university websites, gather prospectuses, attend open days, visit UCAS, talk to schools career advisors
When: Year 12 and beginning of Year 13 (AS and A level years)

What: Complete the application form
Write a personal statement, gather references, complete UCAS application form
When: From October in the year before study to deadline of 15 January (i.e. to start the course in September of that year)

What: Attend an interview
Many courses invite applicants to attend an interview- it’s a good opportunity for academic staff to meet applicants and for students to ask detailed questions about the course
When: October onwards

What: Wait for decisions
Receive confirmations from universities
When: October onwards

What: Accept/decline offers
Decide on a firm choice and an insurance (second) choice. Respond to UCAS- they will inform your son or daughter of the deadline that they need to reply by

What: Results day
If your son or daughter has met their required grades, they should wait for a firm confirmation from their university of choice from UCAS. If they haven’t obtained the required grades, they’ll need to contact the university to see whether they may still be offered a place. If not, they should then contact their insurance university. If they are not accepted here, they will need to go through Clearing.
When: mid August

What: Clearing
This is the process by which students who are not holding an offer at universities may be offered a place at another university. You can read more about the Clearing process on the UCAS website
When: On or after results day in mid August

What: Start of term
Move in day, registration and induction take place before teaching begins.
When: mid to end September
Take a look at all the term dates for the next academic year at Worcester.