Uk University Applications: Trends And Statistics

Applying to university is an important step for many students. In the UK, the application process is managed by the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), which allows students to select up to five universities or courses at once. In 2023, there were 752,000 applications for university in the UK, with 554,000 applicants accepted. The number of applicants has been increasing over the years, with a record high of applicants in 2020, 2021, and 2022. The UK is a popular destination for international students, with over 600,000 international students enrolled in the 2020/21 academic year.

UCAS: the centralised application service for UK universities

UCAS, or the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, is the centralised application service for UK universities. It is an independent charity that manages the application process for undergraduate courses.

Students can apply to up to five universities using the same application on UCAS. This can be for the same course at five different universities or five different courses at the same university. Students submit one personal statement for all five choices.

The process is straightforward. Students create an account on the UCAS website, fill in the application form, and submit their application. Once the application has been sent, students will receive either offers or rejections from the universities.

UCAS also offers a service called UCAS Extra, which allows students to apply to additional universities one at a time if their initial five choices are rejected or declined. It is important to note that not all universities participate in UCAS Extra, and applying through this service does not guarantee a place at the university.

The UCAS application process is competitive, and students are advised to start their applications early, research the institutions and their entry requirements, and submit a well-written and complete application.

Application fees

The UK is a global hub for education, offering career opportunities and multiple options in terms of educational courses and disciplines. The country is home to some of the top-ranked institutions in the world. However, studying in the UK can be expensive, with costs including tuition fees, accommodation, and travel expenses.

When it comes to application fees, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) charges a fee for undergraduate applications. For 2024 entry, the fee for all undergraduate applications is £27.50. This allows students to apply to up to five different universities for the same course or five different courses at the same university. It is important to note that this fee is likely non-refundable and must be paid at the time of application.

Additionally, some universities in the UK may charge an application fee for processing applications. These fees can range from £20 to £100 per university. However, it is worth noting that many universities in the UK have waived their application fees, especially for international students. According to LeapScholar, some of the top universities in the UK that do not charge an application fee include the University of Glasgow, the University of Birmingham, the University of Leeds, the University of Liverpool, Queen Mary University of London, Newcastle University, and the University of Dundee.

Waiving the application fee can provide several benefits, such as cost savings, a wider range of options, enhanced competitiveness, and increased accessibility for students from all financial backgrounds.

When applying to universities in the UK, it is essential to consider the associated costs, including application fees, tuition fees, and living expenses. By planning and researching the application process, students can make informed decisions and maximise their chances of securing admission to their desired universities.

Application deadlines

The deadlines for university applications in the UK vary depending on the course and institution. Here are the key dates for the 2025 intake:

Undergraduate Applications

For undergraduate applications, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is the centralised admissions service that manages the application process. The UCAS deadlines for 2025 are as follows:

• 15th October 2024: All courses at Cambridge and Oxford, and most Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and Dentistry courses at other institutions.
• 29th January 2025: 'Equal Consideration' deadline for many UK universities. Applications received after this date may not be guaranteed consideration, and some popular courses may no longer have vacancies.
• 30th June 2025: Deadline for all other undergraduate courses for international students. Applications received after this date will be entered into UCAS Clearing.

It's important to note that some universities, such as Cambridge and Oxford, and certain courses like Medicine, have much earlier deadlines. Therefore, it is crucial for applicants to be aware of the specific deadlines for their chosen universities and courses.

Postgraduate Applications

Postgraduate degree applications in the UK are typically open on a rolling basis, without a set deadline. However, it is recommended to apply as early as possible, especially for competitive programmes.

International Students

Many universities and colleges in the UK continue to accept applications from international students until later in the year, closer to the start of the course. International students should be mindful of additional requirements, such as visas, English language skills, and financial preparations, when planning their applications.

Early Application Suggestion

Students are generally advised to start their university applications as early as possible. This allows them to carefully research their chosen universities and courses, meet all the requirements, and submit their applications before the deadlines. Early applications also enable students to make necessary arrangements, such as immigration, travel, and accommodation plans, well in advance of their intended start date.

International students

The UK is one of the world's most popular destinations for international students. In the 2020/21 academic year, more than 600,000 international students enrolled to study in the UK, with over 150,000 from the EU. The number of international students has been steadily increasing over the years, with a record high of applicants in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

There are a few key considerations for international students when applying to UK universities. Firstly, they need to be aware of visa conditions, English language requirements, and work permit restrictions. International students need a visa with sponsorship from their chosen institution and must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their living expenses during their stay. Additionally, they may need to demonstrate their English language proficiency through a Secure English Language Test (SELT).

Another important factor for international students is the cost of tuition fees, which can vary between institutions. Since Brexit, most EU and EEA nationals are no longer eligible for home fee status unless they are from Ireland or already living in the UK and registered under the EU Settlement Scheme. International students are advised to submit their applications well before the deadline, especially if they are applying to one of the UK's top universities.

Overall, the UK offers a wide range of academic options for international students, with a well-respected higher education system and a straightforward application process through UCAS.

Postgraduate applications

If your qualifications were obtained outside the UK, you will need to determine how they compare to the course entry requirements of your chosen university. Some universities provide details about this on their websites, or you can contact them for guidance. If you need a 'statement of comparability', you can contact UK ENIC (for which a fee will be charged).

International students may need to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to study in the UK without recourse to public funds. You will need to prove that you have enough money to pay your course fees for a year, plus £1,334 a month for the first nine months if you are studying in London, or £1,023 per month if you are based elsewhere. Postgraduate students bringing their families will need to prove they have enough funds for them, too.

English language skills usually need to be supported by a Secure English Language Test (SELT). There are many approved centres that offer suitable tests. Many universities have specific language requirements, so check for details of what’s needed for your course of study. If you’re from an English-speaking country or studied at degree-level in an English-speaking country, you may be exempt – be sure to check the visa guidance.

As well as paying for a visa, international students must pay a health surcharge for each year they’re granted leave to remain in the UK. This amount is paid upfront as part of your visa application. It will also need to be paid by any dependent family members going with postgraduate students.

You should apply for your visa at least one month, and no more than six months, before coming to the UK. If you're already in the UK, the earliest you can apply is three months before your course starts. Guidance on Student route visas is available on the UK Government website. For more information, see UKCISA.

Frequently asked questions