Applying to university is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming process. Your UCAS application is your gateway to higher education and getting it right can make all the difference in securing a place on the course that’s right for you! Whether you're deciding what to study, preparing your personal statement, or looking for the key deadlines, this guide will walk you through every step of the application journey.
1. Why go to university?
Going to university offers many opportunities beyond just earning a degree. It’s a chance to discover new talents—both academically and personally—while developing essential life skills such as time management, budgeting, and even cooking for yourself! For many students, it’s their first experience of living independently, learning to balance study, work, and social life. University also helps build confidence, with opportunities to mentor others, engage with student communities, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds. Employers often scout for top talent directly from universities, and many graduate roles come with higher salaries and faster career progression. Additionally, the study skills you develop can open doors to part-time work related to your field, giving you valuable experience before you graduate. Since you’ll be committing to your chosen subject for three or more years, it’s crucial to pick something you enjoy and fully engage with university life and the services available to make the most of the experience.
2. What subject is right for me?
Choosing the right subject is a very important choice in your university journey. Even if you already have a subject in mind, you should research course content carefully to ensure the course meets your expectations.
With your ambitions in mind, you should consider potential career paths and whether the course offers opportunities such as placements or internships. Some degrees offer clear professional pathways, while others provide transferable skills that can lead to a variety of careers.
Taking the time to explore your options thoroughly, this will help you choose a subject you’re passionate about and set yourself up for success. Don’t forget to review the entry requirements to make sure you meet the qualifications!
Once you have researched into your chosen subject field, the next step would be visiting the university. Researching your subject is one part of finding the right course for you, another important part is finding a university that is right for you and makes you feel at home.
The best day to visit a university is an open day. At ³ÉÈËÖ±²¥â€™s Open Days you can learn a lot about the various courses by attending talks and speaking individually to the staff that will actually be teaching you. Your visit will also provide valuable insights into accommodation options, campus facilities, and the overall student experience.
If you cannot attend an on-campus event, we also run online sessions and campus tours throughout the year, which are also beneficial as they gives you a chance to speak to the people who know ³ÉÈËÖ±²¥ best!
3. Academic qualifications needed
When applying to university, a range of academic qualifications are considered for entry.
Scottish Highers, Advanced Highers, and National 5s are Scottish qualifications, while A-levels apply to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Irish students can present the Irish Leaving Certificate as an equivalent qualification.
Some institutions offer articulation routes for HNC and HND holders, allowing students direct entry into the second or third year of university. Access courses are accepted, and QM Advance specifically supports adult returners to education. For more information on routes to university, visit the .
³ÉÈËÖ±²¥ also recognises a range of other qualifications including the International Baccalaureate (IB) and T-Levels
Beyond academic qualifications, non-academic criteria such as work or volunteer experience are increasingly valued by universities, demonstrating an applicant’s practical skills and commitment to personal development.
If you have further questions about qualifications that might be accepted, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Admissions team!
4. How do universities make their decisions?
Universities assess applications using a combination of academic grades and personal statements, looking beyond just qualifications to understand an applicant’s motivation, experience, and life skills. A strong personal statement should highlight relevant experiences, demonstrate empathy, and showcase key attributes suited to the chosen course.
For some courses, applicants may go through a group interview, but rather than competing against others, the key is to be authentic and perform your best. If an interview is required for a course, this will be stated in the university prospectus and course page.
5. Applying through UCAS – step-by-step guide
The application process might seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make the process a lot simpler. From registering with UCAS to submitting your application, our detailed UCAS step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know. Read it now for a complete breakdown and all the key dates!
6. Dos and don’ts in your UCAS application personal statement
What to do:
✔ Research thoroughly – Understand the courses and universities you're applying to and tailor your statement accordingly.
✔ Practice and proofread – Write multiple drafts and carefully check for errors. Ask family or friends for feedback.
✔ Be concise yet informative – Highlight your strengths without unnecessary wordiness.
✔ Stay positive – Focus on your achievements and future potential.
What not to do:
✖ Don't just list qualifications – Connect experiences to your motivations and skills.
✖ Avoid clichés – Generic phrases can make your statement blend in rather than stand out.
✖ Don’t repeat the prospectus – Use the space to showcase your unique perspective and skills.
✖ Never lie or plagiarise – Authenticity is key to making a strong impression.
You can find more helpful dos and don'ts on the .
Now that you know how to navigate the UCAS application process, choose the right course, and craft a compelling personal statement, it’s time to take the next step! Whether that means booking an open day, reaching out for advice, or starting your application, make sure to give yourself the best chance of success. The journey to university is an exciting one—embrace it with confidence!
