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.
Amendments to the Tariff consultation
In July 2021 UCAS launched a consultation into a number of proposals relating to the information we make available about qualifications and their use in progression to higher education. The scope of this consultation included the current Tariff (but not the methodology behind the calculation of Tariff points) and Qualification Information Profiles.
Amy, Level 3 rugby development apprentice
Amy Rothero has completed a Level 3 rugby development apprenticeship at the Welsh Rugby Union. Following her experience, Amy decided to go on to study a degree in sport management at Cardiff Metropolitan 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 a legal apprenticeship
Do you want to start a legal career among experienced professionals? Legal apprenticeships, including the 6-year solicitor apprenticeship, are the perfect way to gain practical skills and real-world context on the route to becoming a qualified solicitor. In this guide, we walk you through applying for one type of legal apprenticeship, the solicitor apprenticeship - which includes a Law Degree and all the professional examinations you need to qualify - with top tips from employers about what they look for in an apprentice.
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 for an engineering apprenticeship
Are you eager to take on a career in engineering? Engineering apprenticeships offer students at all levels the opportunity to acquire hands-on skills and real-world experience while on the path towards becoming a qualified engineer. In this guide, we'll take you through the process of applying for an engineering apprenticeship, including invaluable advice from employers on what they seek in an apprentice.
Applying to the UK – advanced practitioner tips
View the advanced practitioner tips from our online International Teachers' and Advisers' Conference.
Apprentices' rights and responsibilities
Know your rights and responsibilities as an apprentice in the world of work.
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.
Becoming a UCAS centre
Schools, colleges, advisers or agents can become registered UCAS centres and get unique access to their students' higher education applications.
Budgeting
Most students find themselves on a tight budget, so managing your money is really important to cover everything you need. Learn how to budget properly and save money at university.
Build lifelong connections with Gen-Z
UCAS offers a unique and trusted media ecosystem designed and built around the student application journey.
Career Finder terms and conditions
View our terms and conditions for use of the Career Finder service.
Career goals: Mechanical design engineer
Design engineer Adam chose to take an apprenticeship over university. Here he explains his role, how he juggled work with studying and why he's glad he took the apprenticeship path.