Supporting UK Armed Forces veterans and service leavers

This toolkit was created in partnership with the Ministry of Defence and the University of South Wales.

Pre-application and research phase

Communication with students and their supporters

• Identify students who have previously served in the UK Armed Forces and flag that support is available to help them access higher education – read our information and advice.
• Mature applicants can also read our information and advice about progressing to higher education as an older student.

Supporting students to research their options

• Direct students to find out more information about the options specifically tailored to veterans and Service leavers – a good starting point is the MOD’s ELCAS website, which outlines the different schemes and funding available.
• Be aware that not all universities, colleges or courses are ELC approved – the ELCAS website has a search tool to help students find suitable universities, colleges, and approved courses.
• Ensure you and your student(s) know about Recognition/Accreditation of Prior Learning (RPL/APL), which enables former (and serving) Armed Forces personnel to apply for a higher education course using the relevant knowledge, skills, qualifications and experience they’ve gained, often in lieu of ‘traditional’ qualifications. In some cases, the student’s rank and qualifications are ‘matched’ to existing civilian qualifications. This can vary between different universities and colleges, so make sure they contact them directly to discuss their options.
• Advise the student to contact the academic tutor directly to discuss their circumstances before they apply – particularly if they are planning to apply with RPL/APL.
• Check what stage the student is at – are they still in the resettlement phase, or have they made a full transition to civilian life? Some support is specifically only available to those in the resettlement phase – the MOD’s Career Transitions Partnership (CTP) website provides more guidance. 

Think about practical matters early

• If the student also has caring and/or parenting responsibilities, signpost them to the right information and advice, and check any other relevant toolkits.
• For students who are disabled or who have mental health conditions, let them know there is support available in higher education, and signpost them to UCAS’ information and advice for disabled students and mental health and wellbeing support.  

When they’re applying

• Make sure students know they can share their UKAF background in the ‘More about me’ section of the application – along with any other relevant circumstances. Reassure them this information is only used positively to help support their success  – the FAQs page may help answer any questions.
• Encourage them to use the personal statement to highlight the many skills, experiences, training, and qualifications gained during their time in the UK Armed Forces and explain how these are valuable for the course they wish to study. This is especially important if they do not hold ‘traditional’ entry qualifications. More guidance about writing the personal statement.
• If they feel it's appropriate, students might want to request a reference from their commanding officer on discharge or educational resettlement officer. Read our guidance for independent references.

Post-application and offers

• Prompt students to apply for any funding as soon as possible – either through student finance or MOD schemes as applicable. Note that there may be a timeframe in which to apply for ELCAS funding so urge the student to check this.
• Make sure they have spoken to the university or college about any other support needs (e.g. if they are a carer or parent, are disabled, or have a mental health condition). 

During Confirmation and Clearing

• If the student is using Clearing to find a place, advise them to speak to the university or college to discuss their circumstances and check about support needs before making a final decision.
• Make sure they know where to get support if any results are lower than expected, or if their application is unsuccessful. 

Preparing for the transition to university or college

• Ask if they have all practical matters in hand (e.g. personal arrangements with finances, travel, childcare, accommodation).
• Check what academic support is offered by the university or college to fill gaps in skills, or to boost confidence and readiness.  
• Make students aware of online courses to help them prepare for higher education – such as the ‘Preparing for university course’ from FutureLearn. Also check if the university or college has any access-related online courses.
• Encourage students to meet with the academic tutor before the course begins to discuss any questions or concerns they may have.   
• Make sure they know who to contact at university or college if they have any questions or problems when they arrive. This may be a dedicated point-of-contact or the wider student support services team. 

Further support and resources

• Information and advice on ucas.com
• The MOD’s Service Leaver’s Guide and Career Transition Partnership (CTP) give information about educational support, and the schemes available to help veterans/Service leavers access higher education. 
• Find out more about the Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme on the ELCAS website.
• Find out how the Armed Forces Covenant can support students when applying to higher education
• For those affected by mental or physical injury through conflict or training, Walking With the Wounded (WWTW) helps with access to education, training, and employment.
• The College for Military Veterans and Emergency Services (CMVES) works with the veteran community, emergency services, and families to empower and motivate all in reaching their full potential in work, education, business, and the transition to civilian life.
• QUEST is an independent website offering information on education and careers for serving personnel and veterans.