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    UCAS Undergraduate: getting started

    Undergraduate degree courses offer many benefits. Find out about university courses and get started with help from UCAS.

    What's on this page?

    Undergraduate higher education is a world of fascinating subjects that help you reach new careers and higher earnings. With a huge range of courses available, it's important to research what's right for you. We’ll show you all the options – including the alternatives to university – to help you see the best way forward. Then, if you’d like to apply for a course, we’ll show you how.

    What does a successful applicant look like?

    We asked university admissions staff what the main features of a successful applicant are.

    UCAS newsletters

    One of the best places to start is to sign up for our monthly newsletter. You can also follow us on social media, watch ‘how-to’ videos on our video wall, and read what our student bloggers have to say. This will ensure you don’t miss any deadlines and give you tips on applying and writing your personal statement.

    Are you a parent or guardian? Get updates and information you need to know about, along with timely explanations of the application process, by signing up for our monthly parent newsletter. 

    How UCAS can help you

    If you’re thinking about uni it’s hard to know where to start gathering information for that important decision.

    If you decide university or college is right for you, there's still a lot of decisions to make about locations and courses, so here are a few ideas to get you started with your research:

    1. Read about what to study and different types of course.
    2. Find out more at events and open days.
    3. Check when you should start your application.
    4. Learn how you can meet course entry requirements.
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    Flexible and part-time students

    More and more courses can now be studied at a distance, on the job or alongside other responsibilities.

    Mature students (over 21)

    It’s never too late to study a higher education course – here’s a guide to get you started.

    Students with individual needs

    Higher education has a wide range of support for care leavers and disabled students.

    Students from a UK Armed Forces background

    Veterans, or students whose parent(s), carer(s), or partner are current or former UK Armed Forces personnel may find there are unique circumstances to consider when applying, and may be able to get extra support.

    Find out about support for students from a UK Armed Forces background

    International and EU students

    There are many benefits to studying in the UK – here’s an introduction to get you started.

    Siaradwyr Cymraeg

    Gall astudio addysg uwch yn y Gymraeg gynnig nifer o ddewisiadau gyrfa i chi.

    Parents of applicants

    Here’s a guide to helping your son or daughter with their application to higher education.

    You can also sign up to our monthly newsletters for advice, guidance and timely information about the application process. 

    Looking for alternatives to uni?

    It’s good to know what all the options are, and to have a few backup ideas in case your plans change.

    Not sure what to do?

    We asked university admissions staff what advice they have for students who aren't sure what to do.

    UCAS events
    Research your options, meet unis, colleges and employers face-to-face, and get your questions answered at our events, and uni open days.