What is UCAS?

UCAS is the centralised system used to apply for undergraduate courses in the UK, simplifying the process for both local and international students. Understanding what UCAS is and how it supports your application journey is the first step towards a successful UK education experience. 

What is UCAS and why does it exist? 

UCAS stands for Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS simplifies the process by allowing students to apply to multiple institutions through a single application. 

A short history of UCAS 

Established in 1992, UCAS was formed by merging the Universities Central Council on Admissions (UCCA) and the Polytechnics Central Admissions System (PCAS). This unification aimed to streamline the application process for higher education in the UK. 

Applying through UCAS can seem overwhelming at first, but it's straightforward once broken down. This section will outline the UCAS application process in simple bullet points to help you get started on the right foot. 

Applying through UCAS involves several steps: 

• Research Courses and Universities: Identify courses and institutions that align with your interests and qualifications. 

• Register with UCAS: Create an account on the UCAS website. 

• Complete the Application: Fill in personal details, educational history, and course choices. 

• Write a Personal Statement: Explain your motivation and suitability for the chosen courses. 

• Obtain References: Secure a reference from a teacher or advisor.  

• Submit the Application: Pay the application fee and submit it before the deadline. 

• Track Application Status: Use the UCAS track system to monitor responses from universities. 

Your UCAS application consists of several key components, each playing a vital role in your university admission. This section breaks down each step numerically to help you confidently navigate the application form. 

• Personal Details: Name, address, date of birth, and contact information. 

• Additional Information: Nationality, residency status, and any special needs. 

• Student Finance: Information on how you plan to fund your studies. 

• Course Choices: Up to five courses at different universities. 

• Education History: Details of schools attended and qualifications obtained. 

• Employment History: Any paid jobs or work experience. 

• Personal Statement: A written piece explaining your interest in the chosen courses. 

• References: A recommendation from someone who knows you academically. 

 Before you start: Top tips 

• Start Early: Give yourself ample time to research and complete the application. 

• Be Honest: Provide accurate and truthful information. 

• Tailor Your Personal Statement: Reflect on your experiences and how they relate to your chosen field. 

• Seek Guidance: Consult teachers or advisors for feedback. 

• Proofread: Check for spelling and grammatical errors. 

  Contact IDP Counsellors Now 

UCAS deadlines 

Deadlines vary depending on the course and university: 

• 15 October: For courses at the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and most medicine, veterinary, and dentistry courses. 

• 15 January: Main application deadline for most courses. 

• 30 June: Applications received after this date enter Clearing. 

UCAS Extra 

If you’ve used all five choices and haven’t received any offers, UCAS Extra allows you to apply for additional courses one at a time. 

UCAS Clearing 

Clearing is for students who didn’t receive offers or didn’t meet the conditions of their offers. It provides an opportunity to find alternative courses with vacancies. 

UK study info 

International students in UAE can benefit from resources like:  

• IELTS exam preparation 

• Information on UK university deadlines 

• Application processes 

• Personal statement guidance 

• Supporting documents 

• Scholarships 

• University rankings 

• And more 

  Help me study in the UK 

UCAS Clearing provides a second chance for students to secure a place at university. Below you’ll find a timeline of 2025 Clearing dates and deadlines, along with tips to make the most of this process. 

Clearing for 2025 opens on the 5^th of July 2025 and closes on the 21^st of October 2025. Students can use this period to apply for courses that still have vacancies. 

Beyond simply applying to multiple universities, UCAS offers strategic advantages. It’s essential for all students and it enhances your chances of success. 

How does Clearing work? 

Clearing matches students without offers to universities with available spots. Students can search for courses, contact universities directly, and secure a place. 

 How to choose your courses in UCAS Clearing? 

• Research Thoroughly: Understand the course content and requirements. 

• Be Flexible: Consider related courses or different universities. 

• Act Quickly: Vacancies fill up fast; prompt action is essential. 

 Benefits to Prospective Students 

• Simplified Process: One application for multiple courses. 

•  Centralised Communication: Track all applications in one place. 

•  Access to Resources: Guidance on personal statements, references, and more. 

UCAS points help universities assess your academic qualifications. Below is how UCAS points work in details:  

How to calculate UCAS points 

UCAS points are calculated based on your qualifications and grades. For example: 

• A-levels: A* = 56 points, A = 48, B = 40, C = 32, D = 24, E = 16. 

• AS-levels: A = 20, B = 16, C = 12, D = 10, E = 6. 

Use the UCAS Tariff Calculator to determine your total points. 

What are UCAS points? 

UCAS points, or tariff points, are a way to standardise different qualifications for university admissions. They help universities compare applicants with varying educational backgrounds. 

IDP helps international students in UAE connect with the best UK universities through the UCAS system. Learn how our expert counsellors can simplify your application process and guide you to the right course and institution. 

Visit our IDP UAE offices  

Is UCAS for UK students only?  

No. International students can also use UCAS to apply to UK universities. 

How many UCAS points is an A* A* A? 

A* A* A equals 160 UCAS points. 

What does UCAS stand for in the UK?  

UCAS stands for Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. 

How to apply to the University of Cambridge without choosing a specific college?  

You can make an open application when you fill out your UCAS form. 

How to make an open application? 

On the UCAS form, just select “open application” instead of a specific college. 

How to write a great personal statement? 

Talk about why you love the subject, your skills, and your goals. Be honest and clear. 

How does my child apply to university through UCAS?  

They create a UCAS account, fill out the form, and choose up to 5 courses. 

When must my child submit their application to UCAS?  

The main deadline is 31 January. Some courses and universities (like the University of Oxford and University of Cambridge) have a deadline of 15 October.