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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.

Alternatives to university

Going to uni or doing an apprenticeship isn’t right for everybody. When researching post-16 plans, it’s important your child weighs up all their options to make the right decision for them in the long-term.

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.

Appealing your grades

Here we'll keep you updated with the latest information on how to appeal your grades.

Applicant experience

Supporting Professionalism in Admissions (SPA) was an independent and objective voice on UK higher education admissions, to promote professionalism, fair admissions, and access to higher education.

Applying for a creative apprenticeship

Do you want to start a career in the creative industries? The creative industries cover a whole host of careers, and apprenticeships too. From craftspeople, to TV, film and radio and everything in between. Whether you're looking to learn practical skills, media processes or management techniques, an apprenticeship in the creative industries can give you the qualifications and experience you need to set you up with a career for life.

Applying for a digital and IT apprenticeship

Looking to start a career in the digital and IT sector? There's no better way to immerse yourself in the tech world than an apprenticeship, where you will get access to industry-standard tools, equipment and work on live projects on a daily basis. Take a look through our digital and IT apprenticeship application guide below, and find out the first steps of your journey into a future in the tech space.

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 healthcare apprenticeship

Are you interested in a career in healthcare? Whether you're looking at frontline dentistry, nursing, or a behind the scenes in the lab with science and medicine - an apprenticeship can help you get there, bringing practical experience together with academic qualifications, it could be the pathway for you.

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 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.