The UCAS Teacher Training system has no ability for training providers to operate a waiting list and applicants can only hold a single offer, so there is no way for them to indicate that they would be happy to be placed on a waiting list.
An applicant who has not received an official offer through UCAS Teacher Training is not holding a secure offer and will therefore still be able to actively add choices to their application in Apply 2, to be considered by other training providers. If a provider adds an applicant to their ‘waiting list’ and approaches them after the 40 working day period, there’s a chance the applicant may have already accepted an offer with another provider.
Training providers can contact previous applicants but before pursuing any conversation with them, they must confirm that the applicant is not holding any offers and does not currently have an application being considered by any other training provider.
If a training provider reopens a programme to allow an applicant on their ‘waiting list’ to apply, they may receive additional applications. All applications received while a training programme is open must be given equal consideration.
Unofficial waiting lists
We have been made aware that some training providers may be operating an unofficial ‘waiting list’ for their UCAS Teacher Training programmes, and we feel it would be beneficial to clarify the situation.