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HE provider good practice briefing for students from UK Armed Forces Families (Service children)

This briefing is for staff working in universities and colleges and supports the introduction of the new UCAS flag to identify students from UK Armed Forces families, from 2023 entry. We have worked with the Service Children’s Progression (SCiP) Alliance and the Ministry of Defence to outline the common challenges for these students, share good practice around the UK, and provide considerations ahead of the new question.

How and where to study

There are many ways you can study, with different work combinations and locations, including distance or work-based learning, and more.

Patricka, UK Armed Forces Service leaver

Patricka Brice-Laughton has completed a HNC in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering) at Wiltshire College & University Centre and is currently in her first year at University of the West of England doing a BSc (Hons) Construction Project Management.

Preparing for your studies

We’ve put together a checklist for you, to make sure you’re ready to start your course and ten top tips for staying safe.

Study options

Discover what different degrees and courses are available and where to help you make the right decision about your future.

Supporting children from UK Armed Forces families (Service children)

If a student's parent(s) or carer(s) is serving as a Regular or Reservist in the UK Armed Forces, or has done so in the past, their experience of going to university may be different to their non-Service peers. This guide explains how you can practically support Service children along their journey to higher education.

Supporting UK Armed Forces veterans and service leavers

Students who have served in the UK Armed Forces as a Regular or Reservist may find there are unique challenges involved in applying to higher education. This guide will help you offer practical ways to help students explore their options and prepare for their next step.

The UK degree system

There are several differences between the education system of the UK and other countries at university level. On this page you’ll find a summary of the key traits of degrees in the UK and look at how these compare to your expectations.

Travelling around the UK

Getting a good idea of how transport works in the UK will make your time here easy and stress-free, meaning you can focus on having the best experience possible. You’ll also discover all the travel discounts available to students, helping you save money and reduce your cost of living.

UCAS Conservatoires: what to study

How to choose a conservatoire course and when to apply. Courses are available in music, dance, acting, and musical theatre at undergraduate and postgraduate level.

UK Armed Forces veterans and service leavers

If you have ever served as a Regular or Reservist in the UK Armed Forces, or remain a Reservist, you may find there are unique challenges involved in applying to university or college.

UKPASS privacy policy

UKPASS is a service provided and operated by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

University life in the UK

Your life as a university student in the UK will be a unique experience. You might encounter new ways of living, studying, and socialising that are different from the way students do it in your home country. This guide will help you succeed as a student, whether it’s understanding the different types of university in the UK, adopting good academic habits, or making friends.

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.

Architecture and planning 2026 personal statement guide

If you’re applying for architecture and planning, outline your reasons for wanting to study the course. The built environment encompasses lots of courses and professions, so be as specific as possible about your interests and enthusiasms.