The 2024 cycle contextual data measures will be available from the 01 September 2023 and can be found here
This is alongside the POLAR4, POLAR3 and the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) updates.
The contextual data can be used to assess an applicant’s achievement and potential, in light of their educational and socioeconomic background.
To use the contextual data service, you need to register with us, and ensure that applicants are aware that you’re accessing this information and how it is being used in the admissions process.
You only need to sign up once to receive contextual data annually. If you haven’t already registered or want more information, please email our Customer Success Team at CST@ucas.ac.uk.
Systems will remain available while this work takes place, however once complete, you may see a larger volume of data than expected in your next import of data via xml-link or odbc-link.
The view/methods being updated are:
- ODBC-Link View - 'CVREFSCHOOLCONTEXTUALDATA' (please note this will only be available until December 2023 when ODBC-Link is decommissioned)
- XML-Link Methods - getUCASApplicantContextualData , getContextualData