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.
Applications and acceptances for types of higher education course — 2018
Our detailed data resources are published at the end of each application cycle.
Applications and acceptances for types of higher education course — 2017
Our detailed data resources are published at the end of each application cycle.
Applications and acceptances for types of higher education course - 2016
Our detailed data resources are published at the end of each application cycle.
Businesses, employers and higher education providers
As the gateway to higher education in the UK, we have unrivalled data, insight and trusted channels to reach students. Here's how you can reach them too.
Events and summer schools to prepare students for higher education
Organising events in your school or college is a great way to help students make smart choices about higher education (HE) or find alternative routes. There’s a wealth of activities outside school too.
Higher education options explained
There's more than one route into higher education. Open your students' eyes to all the possibilities – from degree apprenticeships to studying abroad – and debunk some common myths about university.
How can continued innovation in higher education help us meet national and international demand?
Dr Anthony Manning, Director and Dean of Global Lifelong Learning, University of Kent.
Studying at a higher education college
Higher education (HE) courses don’t have to be studied at a university – there are more than 240 colleges in the UK that offer a range of higher education courses.
What can the higher education sector learn from the growth in demand that is being experienced within the school and college sector?
Pat Carvalho, Principal, Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMET).
What does the Journey to a Million mean for the nature of competition in higher education?
Nicola Dandridge, Professor of Higher Education Policy, University of Bristol.
What will an increase in demand mean for smaller and specialist higher education institutions?
Anthony McClaran, Vice-Chancellor St Mary’s University Twickenham and Chair of GuildHE
Why choose higher education?
Going to uni is a great way to expand your knowledge, meet new people, and enjoy new experiences. Find out what it's all about, and decide if it's right for you.
2017 End of Cycle Report
The UCAS End of Cycle Report 2017 is the first national overview of demand for, and acceptances to, UK higher education (HE) for the 2017 admissions cycle.
2018 End of Cycle Report
The UCAS End of Cycle Report 2018 is the first national overview of demand for, and acceptances to, undergraduate UK higher education (HE) for the 2018 admissions cycle.
2019 End of Cycle Report
The UCAS End of Cycle Report 2019 is the first national overview of demand for, and acceptances to, undergraduate UK higher education (HE) for the 2019 admissions cycle.
2025 dates and deadlines consultation
Every year, UCAS supports 1.5 million students to explore entering higher education, employment and apprenticeships.
Addressing the apprenticeship information gap: How employers and the education sector can improve access by finding solutions together
Taking the first steps out of school and into higher education is an exciting time in many students’ journeys. But school leavers can’t make key decisions about their future without understanding the full range of choices and opportunities available – and importantly, how to access them.
Admissions Good Practice
The fair admissions code of practice demonstrates the higher education sector’s commitment to fair and transparent admissions practices.