Higher education conventions

UCAS conventions are a series of more than 50 higher education conventions held every year throughout the UK, including nine major events in 2010 held at large, prestigious venues. The conventions bring together universities and colleges within the UCAS scheme to inform and guide prospective university and college students. The events play a vital part in helping applicants decide about what and where to study within higher education. Prospectuses are available from most of the stands at the conventions.

The major conventions are organised by UCAS Media in conjunction with universities, Connexions, Careers Services and the Higher Education Liaison Officers Association (HELOA). The regional conventions are organised by Connexions, Careers Services, universities and HELOA.

They are designed mainly for 16-year-old and 17-year-old students (Year 12, Lower Sixth or Scottish Higher students in Scotland). Annually around 250,000 people attend the events.

Find out more about exhibiting at, or visiting higher education conventions

Conventions provide more than just information about higher education

Exhibitors also include further education colleges, Connexions, GAP Year organisations, student support services, professional bodies, student travel firms, student finance and lots more, depending on the event.

Many of the conventions also have an extensive seminar programme. Recent topics include 'Student Finance', 'Taking a Gap Year', and 'Applying through UCAS'.

Conventions are held between March and July in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and between August and October in Scotland.

Events are free of charge

Tickets are not necessary for UCAS higher education conventions. The events are free of charge to attend. School and college group bookings are usually made online at www.ucasevents.com/conventions. An invitation to book is usually sent to schools/colleges (including instructions on how to book) prior to when booking commences. You are also welcome to visit the convention as individuals on the day without any prior booking.

Click here to book to attend a higher education convention

If you require further information on UCAS education conventions contact:

UCAS Media Events
Rosehill
New Barn Lane
Cheltenham
Gloucestershire
GL52 3LZ

email: conventions@ucas.ac.uk
tel: 01242 544 729
fax: 01242 544 806