When to apply

1. Make sure your completed application reaches us.
2. Your reference is included.
3. You've paid your application fee.

Leave yourself plenty of time to do everything

• You might need time to sort out any problems your teachers or advisers point out.
• Schools and colleges sometimes give you earlier deadlines to fill in your application than ours – this is to make sure they can write your reference and send your application to us on time.
• If you're applying as an independent applicant (not through a school), we recommend you ask your referee to complete your reference well in advance of the deadline to avoid any delays.

Also remember to look into student finance. It's a separate application to your UCAS one, so if you're applying for any loans or support make sure you know what you need to do and when.

If you're applying for courses starting between January and May you might need to apply earlier than for courses with the more typical start dates of September/October.

• This kind of variation in course start dates can affect deadlines, so get in touch with the university or college to make sure.
• You can add further choices with more typical start dates to your application later on, (as long as you haven't yet accepted any offers), but if you're interested in any courses with earlier start dates, make sure you don't miss any of the earlier deadlines.

If you miss your deadline, most universities and colleges will still look at your application if they have vacancies left on the course you apply for, but there are no guarantees.

• Late applications can be sent up to 30 June.
• We recommend you ask the university or college if you're allowed to apply late – especially for courses with a 15 October deadline, as it's unusual for them to consider late applications because theIr courses are really competitive.

If you decide to take a year out you can still apply now and defer your start date by a year.

• This way you can get all your results confirmed and hopefully receive an unconditional offer for the following year.
• If you're applying for deferred entry in 2014 you'll still need to meet the relevant deadlines and meet any offer conditions by 31 August 2013. Then you'd be free to enjoy your year out without worrying about your application!
• However, make sure you check with the university or college that they're happy to consider an application for deferred entry – otherwise your choice might be wasted.