UCAS - Other options

Other options

If you haven't found the place you're looking for, or you've changed your mind about going to university or college this year, there are plenty of options that can help you improve your knowledge and learn new skills or just give you a well-deserved break.

Get some experience

If you're planning to reapply for higher education it's worth taking part in something that will help you get accepted onto a course. For example, if you're hoping to study medicine, try to get some work experience at a local surgery or hospital. If you would like to study a language, visit the country and practice your skills.

Having some experience to put on your UCAS application will help you get ahead of the competition.

Take a gap year

Taking a gap year can be a great experience and one which helps you get the skills you need for higher education. Gap years cover loads of options, from travelling abroad to work or volunteer, retaking qualifications, or learning something new that hasn't been an option before.

Whatever you choose, check that you can afford it and get plenty of advice before you decide. There are lots of sites to help you choose your gap year so search for what you're interested in. The Year Out Group at www.yearoutgroup.com is a good place to start.

Reapply to university or college

If you'd like to start university or college next year, you'll need to reapply (we can't reuse an application from a previous year). Go to the Apply page to register.

Study in another country

You could consider studying in a different country.

For the USA, a good place to start is the Fulbright Commission.
For Ireland, go to the Central Applications Office at www.cao.ie.
Another useful lead is the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
The British Council also offers advice, visit www.educationuk.org.
The embassies of other countries will usually be happy to provide guidance.

Do some research

If you're considering any of these options, take a look at our online bookstore - we provide useful guides to choosing a career, taking a gap year, and the 'Top Universities Guide', which gives worldwide university rankings. Even if you choose not to go to university, there's a guide there to help. Go to the UCAS bookstore to see for yourself.

Need more information?

If you need some help deciding what to do, speak to your local careers service or Connexions office for advice, or contact learndirect.