Getting started
Information for advisers on how to support your students in making a UCAS application and moving into higher education.
Information and advice pages
Getting started
Information for advisers on how to support your students in making a UCAS application and moving into higher education.
HE provider good practice briefing for care experienced students
This is for staff working in universities and colleges. It outlines the common challenges for students who are care experienced (CE) and provides examples of good practice found around the UK to improve access to and success in higher education (HE).
HE provider good practice briefing for estranged students
This good practice briefing is written for staff working in universities and colleges and supports the introduction of the new flag to identify estranged students in the UCAS application for 2023 entry. We have worked with Stand Alone 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.
HE provider good practice briefing for refugees, asylum seekers, and students with limited leave to remain
This briefing is for staff working in universities and colleges, supporting the introduction of the new UCAS flag to identify applicants who are refugees, asylum seekers, and those with limited leave to remain in the UK. We have worked with STAR Network, Refugee Education UK and We Belong to 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.
HE provider good practice briefing for students in receipt of free school meals (FSM)
This briefing is for staff working in universities and colleges and supports the introduction of the new UCAS flag to identify applicants who have been in receipt of free school meals (FSM). Here, we outline the common challenges for these students, share examples of good practice around the UK to improve access to and success in higher education, and provide considerations ahead of the new question.
HE provider good practice briefing for students who participated in WP and outreach activities
This briefing is for staff working in universities and colleges. Here, we outline common challenges for students who participated in widening participation (WP) and outreach activities, and share examples of good practice being done around the UK to improve access to and success in higher education.
HE provider good practice briefing for students with parenting responsibilities
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.
HE provider good practice briefing for students with care responsibilities
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.
HEP1 and HEP2
These are two of our testing environments for higher education providers (HEP) to test the integration of UCAS products with their own systems – including web-link (applicant data), xml-link, and HESA data (Star J).
How can diversifying providers help meet the challenge of a Journey to a Million?
Joy Elliott-Bowman, Director of Policy and Development, Independent Higher Education (IHE)
How do you include apprenticeships in your workforce planning?
Higher and degree apprenticeships aren’t just an increasingly popular form of education. We know they’re already playing an essential role in workforce planning.
How past students can inspire current students
One of your top resources as a teacher offering higher education (HE) guidance is your student alumni, now at university. So how do you keep in touch with past students and make the most of their experiences?
Improve your competitive strategy
Combine your data with ours to differentiate your university or college from your competitors. With extensive insights and unrivalled higher education expertise, we'll help you develop stand-out plans to gain the advantage.
Individual needs?
No matter what background or specific needs you may have, education is an inclusive environment. Find out how universities and colleges can help you throughout your higher education.
Inspire your students in National Apprenticeship Week 2025
National Apprenticeship Week is the perfect time to highlight a pathway that combines education, experience, and earning – helping students launch their careers with real-world skills.
International
UCAS has a wide range of information, resources and services to support international students, advisers and UK universities and colleges. This ranges from advice and guidance on the UK higher education admissions journey, to data dashboards and insights.
International events
It's a good idea to talk about your higher education options in person. Go to a course provider open day to explore the campus and get insights from staff and students – or take a virtual tour. We also recommend you go to UK events or one of the British Council events around the world. You'll find lots of helpful advice, and can ask any questions you may have.
International guides to studying in the UK
If you're thinking about studying in the UK, download our guide to higher education and UCAS applications.
Managing money
Is the cost of living making your next steps harder? Whether you’re interested in a traditional degree or becoming an apprentice, we’re here to support you on your higher education journey.