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UCAS & Personal Statements
Georgie Smith
Schools and Colleges Liaison
Applications Process
UCAS
Web-based application system, called Apply
Track system
5 choices of University
What is an admissions tutor looking for?
• Appropriate academic qualifications
• A good reference
• A good personal statement
A good starting point..
• Research course details
• Make sure you understand jargon
• Think about why the course interests you
• Can apply for more than one course, universities can not see for what and where else you have applied.
About the course/subject
• What you enjoy about the subject • Why you want to study it in more depth• Show evidence of research• Courses attended/field trips• Relevant work experience • Career plans
• Don’t all start with “I’ve always wanted to study…”
What we look for in an applicant
Work Experience
• Work experience and part-time employment
• Tutors want to see reflection • Be analytical • Highlight transferable skills
What we look for in an applicant
Extra curricular activities
• Anything outside of school or college
• Positions of responsibility
• Volunteer work
• Evidence of self-motivation
• Any hurdles you have overcome
• Sports, hobbies and interests
• Gap year plans
What we look for in an applicant
General points
• Plan it first
• Type in Word 12pt, then cut and paste
• Check spelling!
• Sell yourself – but avoid sounding boastful
• Don’t unnecessarily repeat material
• Don’t try to be funny or controversial
• Be honest
• Try to sound natural
• Proof read and get someone else to proof read
What we look for in an applicant
Timeline
Start researching courses
Write personal statement
Fill in UCAS form
Oxford/Cambridge/ medicine deadline
Receive offers and choose
2 universities
Fill in Finance Forms
Now
Summer Holidays
September onwards
October 15th
January – Easter
Spring
2013
2014
Decision Process
UCAS sends the application form to all the chosen Universities
You may get asked for an interview
Decisions are made as follows:
Conditional Offer = offer made with conditions attached
Unconditional Offer = offer made with no conditions attached
Reject = unsuccessful application
Replying to Offers
Once decisions on all choices have been made a Final Decision Letter is sent.
You need to:Accept one University as Firm ChoiceAccept one University as Insurance ChoiceDecline the other offers
Be aware of deadlines and ensure replies reach UCAS on time.
What happens if:
• I receive NO offers? – UCAS EXTRA
What happens next?
• Get the grades - University of your choice
• Miss the grades - Clearing/ re-apply next year
Questions?