Writing undergraduate references for independent applicants
If you have been asked to write a reference for an independent applicant who is not currently attending school or college, please read through the advice below before starting.
Information and advice pages
Writing undergraduate references for independent applicants
If you have been asked to write a reference for an independent applicant who is not currently attending school or college, please read through the advice below before starting.
Writing your personal statement if you're a mature student: 2026 entry
If you're applying to start university and you're 21+, you're considered a mature student. Your background and experience may be different to those students who apply straight from school or college, so we've got some guidance on how to write your personal statement.
Writing your personal statement: Students with individual needs
Universities and colleges welcome students from diverse backgrounds and with a range of unique strengths and qualities. Here, we offer guidance on how to showcase the valuable and transferable skills drawn from your personal experiences and circumstances.
Yipiyap - redefining the gap year
Considering a gap year? Unis and employers love the maturity, motivation, and higher final grades of gap year students. Our friends at Yipiyap have experienced over a decade of well-planned years out transforming careers. Sponsored content.
Your guide to the UCAS Hub
Discover what the Hub has to offer for students exploring their next steps. Shine a light on the future.
Your pocket careers adviser: Results day and Clearing support
We've worked with university and school coach, Clementine Wade, to create articles, videos, and email tips to help you understand results day and Clearing, and get to grips with what you should be doing when to best support your child through the process.
Five ways to save money at university
Check out five easy and practical ways to save money while studying at university in the UK. The good news is that, as a student, there are lots of ways to save money – here's five tips to get you started.
How I got my project management degree apprenticeship
Tash is a project management degree apprenticeship at Atkins (a member of SNC-Lavalin Group). We spoke to Tash about her apprenticeship, including taking a different path when all her friends went to uni, balancing working and studying, and the application process.