Alternatives to higher education
If you're undecided about uni or your plans have changed, there are other options after secondary education, such as apprenticeships, gap years, overseas study, and more. This page explains university alternatives.
Information and advice pages
Alternatives to higher education
If you're undecided about uni or your plans have changed, there are other options after secondary education, such as apprenticeships, gap years, overseas study, and more. This page explains university alternatives.
Amy, Level 6 design engineering technical apprentice
Amy Lauder is in her third year of a four-year Level 6 graduate apprenticeship with aerospace company Leonardo. She will qualify with a BEng (Hons) in Engineering: Design and Manufacture from the University of Strathclyde.
Anthropology 2026 personal statement guide
Write about what fascinates you about humans, and your desire to study our behaviour and biology further at university.
Applying for a finance and accounting apprenticeship
Looking to start a career in finance and accounting? While academic routes are often the first thought when entering the field, there is no better way to gain hands-on experience in the sector than embarking on an apprenticeship and working while you learn. In the guide below, we'll help you on the first stage of your journey in applying for an apprenticeship, what to expect at the interview stage, and some advice and guidance from live employers in the space.
Applying for an apprenticeship: What your students need to know
Find out how you can support your students to apply for a work-based option.
Applying through UCAS Conservatoires
You make your application online. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying to a conservatoire.
Applying to the UK – advanced practitioner tips
View the advanced practitioner tips from our online International Teachers' and Advisers' Conference.
Applying to university as an international student
Discover any information you might need to succeed in applying to UK institutions as an international student. Find advice on visas, English language skills, why you should study in the UK and what your qualifications will mean.
Apprenticeship glossary
An apprenticeship is a way to achieve a recognised qualification while gaining industry experience. It involves working and studying at the same time.
Apprenticeships
Interested in an apprenticeship? Check out some of the great resources, useful hints and tips, and vacancies UCAS has to offer.
Apprenticeships in England
Everything you need to know about apprenticeships in England, including what they are, entry requirements, and more.
Apprenticeships in Northern Ireland
Everything you need to know about apprenticeships in Northern Ireland.
Apprenticeships in Scotland
Everything you need to know about apprenticeships in Scotland, including what levels are available, entry requirements, and more.
Apprenticeships in Wales
Everything you need to know about apprenticeships in Wales, including what they are, how they work, and more.
Apprenticeships Podcast Series
Following the success of our Clearing Choices Podcast series, our Apprenticeships Podcast Series gives you the chance to promote your brand to our database of around 700,000 students searching for their future path.
Apprenticeships: Discover the extraordinary
We brought together industry leaders, inspiring speakers, and thought-provoking discussions to explore how apprenticeships unlock opportunities and connect employers with the next generation of talent.
Archaeology 2026 personal statement guide
Dig deep into what fascinates you about archaeology and what you hope to discover on a course like this.