Search

The fair admissions code of practice demonstrates the higher education sector’s commitment to fair and transparent admissions practices.

For the 2026 cycle, we are introducing a new Tariff points structure that now includes Level 3 apprenticeships alongside A-levels, T Levels, and other post-16 qualifications. These changes aim to support apprentices' progression to higher education by creating a unified system that helps universities and colleges evaluate apprenticeship qualifications against traditional academic routes. This guide provides an overview of the recent changes, including the new calculation method, key points for providers, and the impact on apprenticeship pathways into higher education.

On your UCAS application, you can share a mental or health condition with your university. This’ll help you get the information and help you may need while at university and help put you at ease.

A carer is anyone who is responsible for providing unpaid care to a family member or friend who could not cope without their support.

Chris Kirk, Director of UCAS International, UCAS

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.

Discover a range of resources – created by UCAS with support from the HE sector – to help you with your admissions processes

Our range of products and services for providers can help you to connect with applicants, inform your student recruitment activity and ensure a smooth admissions cycle.

It's really important to tell your university or college about your individual needs as early as possible – this will ensure any adjustments and support are in place before you arrive.

Universities and colleges welcome students from a diverse range of backgrounds and experience. If you choose to disclose that you are a student with an imprisoned parent it will not negatively impact your application – it gives context to your circumstances.

Terms and conditions

Anne Marie Graham, Chief Executive, UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA)

This briefing is for staff working in universities and colleges to support the introduction of the new UCAS flag to identify students with parenting responsibilities from 2023 entry. Here, we outline the common challenges for these students, share good practice around the UK to improve access to and success in higher education, and provide considerations ahead of the new question.

This good practice briefing is written for staff working in universities and colleges and supports the introduction of the new UCAS flag to identify students with caring responsibilities from 2023 entry. We have worked with the Carers Trust to outline the common challenges for these students, share examples of good practice being done around the UK to improve access to and success in higher education, and provide considerations ahead of the new question.

In its newest report in the Next Steps series, UCAS, in partnership with the Unite Foundation, examines the educational experiences of students from a care background.

Reform and constant improvement are in UCAS’ DNA.