2022 Applying for Higher Education – UCAS

This guide has been created to help you navigate the world of UCAS and the application process. The guide includes a checklist, key deadlines and information on the different stages. This version is ready to be downloaded or sent to print.

Advice from Universities & Employers

With so many options, we've collected some advice from our university and business partners.

Alternative Pathways to Higher Education

This recorded workshop helps students to explore the different routes available to them after finishing Year 11, and how these pathways can lead to Higher Education.

Applying for Competitive Courses Webinar – Lancaster University

In this recorded session for Hello Future Expo 2020, Lancaster University share some top tips for applying to competitive university courses.

Edge Hill University’s Youtube Channel

Here you will find a wide range of videos showcasing Edge Hill University's academic offer, interviews, facilities and campus tours.

Getting in… financial and practical support

Why accessing financial and practical support is important when at university.

Getting in… gaining experience

Why it's important to gain experience to help you with university applications.

Getting on… student life

A guide to all aspects of student life.

Getting to know… the people

Why getting to know the people at university is important.

Getting to know… the place

When thinking about university, one key consideration is the kind of place where you might like to study and live.

Getting to know… universities

Learn why choosing the right university is so crucial.

Higher Education Fairs and Online Open Days Webinar – Lancaster University

This recorded webinar from Hello Future Live 2021 explores how to make the most of online fairs and open days.

Higher Education Jargon Buster

We know that all of the lingo and abbreviations in education can be confusing, so we have spent time collecting all of the key terms and put this resource together to help you navigate the websites, applications and course materials. Click to download our Higher Education Jargon Buster poster.

How to survive Clearing

If you don't get the grades you need for the university course you're applying to, Clearing is an opportunity to grab a spot on a similar course. This could be at the same university or a different one. This blog by Gill Sharp (Careers Advisor) walks you through the clearing process.

Intro to HE – Edge Hill University

In this recorded session for Hello Future Live 2021, Edge Hill University and Hello Future deliver a live workshop to cover an introduction to Higher Education, along with a couple of quizzes.

Lancaster University’s Youtube Channel

Here you will find a wide range of videos showcasing Lancaster University's academic offer, interviews, facilities and campus tours.

Options After Year 11

Hear from current students, employers and lecturers who have some great advice to share about their experiences.

Options After Year 13

Some helpful advice and ideas to explore when planning your next steps.

Parent & Carer Case Study – Adam

In this video, we hear from Adam's Dad about his experience of supporting both his sons through their higher education journeys. Adam is from Cornwall, in the South West of England.

Parent & Carer Case Study – Mark

In this video, Mark speaks with his Dad about how it was for him, supporting Mark through his HE Journey. Mark is from West Cumbria.

Parent & Carer Case Study – Sophie

In this video, Sophie interviews her Mum about what it is like to support a child through Higher Education. Sophie is from a small coastal town in the North West of England and chose to attend University.

Parents and Supporters Session with Edge Hill University

In this session from Hello Future Expo 2020, Edge Hill University provide advice to Parents and Supporters on how to support a student through Higher Education.

Personal Statements and Interviews – Edge Hill University

In this recorded session for Hello Future Live 2021, Edge Hill University deliver a live workshop to understand what makes a good personal statement and interview for university applications.

Preparing for Higher Education Fairs & Open Days – Edge Hill University

This recorded workshop from Hello Future Live 2021 explores how to make the most of virtual fairs and open days.

Prospects

Find out how to apply for university courses and student finance.

Russell Group

Discover which subjects and qualifications (not just A levels) lead to different degrees, and what careers these degrees can lead to.

savethestudent.org

Their website houses tones of useful student money info, from finance, banking, saving, jobs, bills, shopping and much more! Click the link to dive in and find out more!

Spotlight on Business Studies with Edge Hill University

This recorded interview with Edge Hill University from Hello Future Live 2021 tells you everything about Business Studies, with top tips from current and past students.

StudentCrowd

Created by students, these reviews have been created to help you find accommodation, get a job, research courses and more.

The Complete University Guide

Other options to complete study.

The Student Room

The Student Room is a community of and for students.

The Uni Guide – Explorer Tool

What to study, where to go and how to get there.

UCAS Applications and University Interviews – University of Cumbria

In this recorded session for Hello Future live 2021, University of Cumbria deliver a workshop about what UCAS is, the application process and some tips for tackling university interviews.

UCAS Personal Statement Advice

Get advice on writing a UCAS personal statement

UCAS Statement Template

Here you can find a template to help you structure a UCAS statement.

UCAS Terms Explained

There are many different key terms used throughout the application process. Untangle UCAS terminology with this useful link.

UCLan’s ‘Pathways to Medicine’ Programme

This programme supports Year 12 students from under-represented backgrounds at universities, specifically from the North-West of England, in going on to study Medicine at university. It also allows you to apply to specific Uclan scholarships for Medicine, and will support your current A Level studies.

UCLan’s Youtube Channel

Here you will find a wide range of videos showcasing University of Central Lancashire's academic offer, interviews, facilities and campus tours.

Uni Stats

The official website for comparing UK higher education course data.

University of Cumbria – Youtube Channel

Here you will find a wide range of videos showcasing the University of Cumbria's academic offer, interviews, facilities and campus tours.

University Student Experience with Edge Hill University

In this session for Hello Future Expo 2020, students at Edge Hill University share their university experience and answer questions about student life.

Whatuni

Find courses at top universities. Free, trusted advice to help you decide which university is best for you.

Where creativity becomes a career – Arts courses at the University of Cumbria

Are you interested in arts and creative subjects? Check out this resource, detailing the University of Cumbria's course offer.

Where to study?

Begin your tour of a uni city including what you can do for fun, local area tips and more...

The Uni Guide – University

What to do, when – for university

A Student’s Guide to Higher and Degree Apprenticeships

This is an 'all you need to know' guide to Higher and Degree Apprenticeships. There is information at the back for you to discuss with your parents/carers as a great choice of post-18 employment and study. Click to download this guide.

Advice from Universities & Employers

With so many options, we've collected some advice from our university and business partners.

Alternative Pathways to Higher Education

This recorded workshop helps students to explore the different routes available to them after finishing Year 11, and how these pathways can lead to Higher Education.

Alternatives to university

If the prospect of student debt and full-time study doesn't sound appealing, you've many options when it comes to deciding what to do instead.

Day in the life of a Corporate Department Apprentice

Meet Anthony Oldcorn, who is currently working at HMA Moore & Smalley as a Corporate Department Apprentice in Kendal, Cumbria.

Day in the life of a Mechanical Technician

Meet Ryan Bowron, who is a Mechanical Engineering Apprentice with Kimberly-Clark. Ryan is studying at Furness College.

Day in the life of an IT Apprentice

Meet Daniel Jackson, who is currently an IT Apprentice at Innovia Films, Cumbria.

Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education: Response to Covid-19

Get the latest updates relating to Covid-19 and how the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education is working to support students and employers.

Options After Year 11

Hear from current students, employers and lecturers who have some great advice to share about their experiences.

Options After Year 13

Some helpful advice and ideas to explore when planning your next steps.

Paths into Higher Education – Charlotte’s Story

Meet Charlotte Howland, Project Management Apprentice

Paths into Higher Education – Eleanor’s Story

Meet Eleanor Ball, Project Management Apprentice

Paths into Higher Education – Emily’s Story

Meet Emily Garroway, Mechanical Design Apprentice.

Paths into Higher Education – Jade’s Story

Meet Jade Taylorson, BBC Reporter at Radio Cumbria

Paths into Higher Education – Kia’s Story

Meet Kia Nicholson, Student Physician Associate

Paths into Higher Education – Leejay’s Story

Meet Leejay Books, Integrated Project Management Scheme

Paths into Higher Education – Tyler’s Story

Meet Tyler Fawcett, Chemical Analyst

Prospects

Find out how to apply for university courses and student finance.

St Benedicts Schools – Paths into Higher Education

We have met up with some students currently on a variety of apprenticeship programmes to find out how they are getting on. Hear what they have to say about their experience and what advice they would give to someone who might be interested.

T LEVELS RESOURCES FOR TEACHERS & CAREERS ADVISERS

These resources help you to explore the opportunities available through T Level courses, including guides, posters and course outlines. Click the link to discover more.

All About Careers

Read about career and study options, money, and independent living.

Alternative Pathways to Higher Education

This recorded workshop helps students to explore the different routes available to them after finishing Year 11, and how these pathways can lead to Higher Education.

Career Pilot

Research career and study choices, and see videos of those who have pursued various routes

Careers

Whether you’re deciding what to study, taking your exams, planning a career, or just curious, BBC Bitesize have created a page of resources to help explain the world of work, with advice from young people, employers and celebrities on finding your perfect job and figuring out your next steps.

Careers Box

See videos about what it’s like to work in different jobs and for different organisations

‘How To Become…’ Careers Guides

This website features a variety of helpful guides, exploring the entry routes, skills and qualifications needed to enter different industries. Click the link to explore.

How to write a CV personal statement

National Careers Service

Explore job descriptions and career options, and contact careers advisers.

Options After Year 11

Hear from current students, employers and lecturers who have some great advice to share about their experiences.

Options After Year 13

Some helpful advice and ideas to explore when planning your next steps.

Parents & Carers Guide – Helping your child begin their career journey

The guide covers a variety of topics, including choosing a career path; pathways into work; university; apprenticeships; employability skills; work experience; gap years; how to future-proof your child's career; subject journeys and action plans.

Paths into Higher Education – Charlotte’s Story

Meet Charlotte Howland, Project Management Apprentice

Paths into Higher Education – Eleanor’s Story

Meet Eleanor Ball, Project Management Apprentice

Paths into Higher Education – Emily’s Story

Meet Emily Garroway, Mechanical Design Apprentice.

Paths into Higher Education – Jade’s Story

Meet Jade Taylorson, BBC Reporter at Radio Cumbria

Paths into Higher Education – Kia’s Story

Meet Kia Nicholson, Student Physician Associate

Paths into Higher Education – Leejay’s Story

Meet Leejay Books, Integrated Project Management Scheme

Paths into Higher Education – Tyler’s Story

Meet Tyler Fawcett, Chemical Analyst

Prospects

Find out what different degrees could lead to, how to choose the right course for you, and how to apply for courses and student finance.

SACU

Identify or research future careers with a quick image-based Spartan test.

Skills Builder

Everyone needs eight essential skills to succeed - whatever their path in life. The Skills Builder Partnership is providing a range of resources for building these skills in a home setting. Set the skill level from beginner to expert (suitable for 11-18 years old) and pick from the list of 8 skills you want to develop, including: Listening, Problem solving, Staying positive, Leadership and Teamwork

Skills Employers Are Looking For – Video

Want to know what employers are looking for? Well, we asked them!

Spotlight on Business Studies with Edge Hill University

This recorded interview with Edge Hill University from Hello Future Live 2021 tells you everything about Business Studies, with top tips from current and past students.

StartProfile

Find job descriptions, salaries and hours, routes into different careers.

The Princes Trust – Career planning

Working out what to do with your life and how to get your dream job can be a long and complicated process. To make things a bit easier, read through these simple steps to help you on the path.

UCLan’s ‘Pathways to Medicine’ Programme

This programme supports Year 12 students from under-represented backgrounds at universities, specifically from the North-West of England, in going on to study Medicine at university. It also allows you to apply to specific Uclan scholarships for Medicine, and will support your current A Level studies.

Your Next Steps in Music (Further Education)

This recorded session from Hello Future Live 2021 features a discussion about the options available for studying Music at college level.

E-Learning for Young People with Cumbria Youth Alliance & Embrace Resiliance

Cumbria Youth Alliance has teamed up with Embrace Resilience to offer all young people in Cumbria and all all staff & volunteers working with young people in Cumbria a large range of online learning modules free of charge. Some of the topics include health & wellbeing, support with your career, improve your CV and skills & knowledge.

Resources for young people during the Coronavirus outbreak

If you’re a young person, MindMate can help you understand the way you’re feeling and manage your wellbeing and mental health during the Coronavirus outbreak and period of social isolation.

Study Skills Webinar – Edge Hill University

This webinar from Hello Future Live 2021 offers top tips on how to revise well.

Studying during Lockdown – Short Films

The Sussex Learning Network has created various short films offering advice from local student mentors on studying and taking care of yourself during lockdown. These include advice from: Uyi a Pharmacy Student at University of Brighton, Imogen a Film Student at University of Chichester and Tiwa's 'Top Tips' for staying motivated!

Free digital & numeracy courses to build your skills

Want to learn a new skill while at home? Find free, high quality digital and numeracy courses in The Skills Toolkit. You can choose from a selection of high quality courses put together in collaboration with experts. Find a level and time to study that’s right for you. The Skills Toolkit makes it easy for you to boost your skills.

How to Evaluate Internet Sources – Preparing for university and your studies

Websites form a useful tool to gather information and research a topic, so its important to make sure you can spot if its a reliable source for your work. This guide shares some top tips for how to evaluate internet sources and whether its suitable for your argument.

Improving Your Reading Skills – Prepare for university and your studies

Check our this guide that UCLan has put together to help you explore the different reading style needed for academic study. This handout looks at journals, academic papers, reading strategies and literature surveys.

Managing wellbeing whilst studying at home

When studying/working from home it can be difficult to remember the importance of keeping yourself well and sticking to a work schedule. This article provides practical advice that will support you in caring for your well-being during this uncertain and stressful time.

Prospects

Find out how to apply for university courses and student finance.

PUSH TALKS – Youtube Channel

Push is an award-winning organisation that delivers outreach and information to help students get excited about their choices and develop the employability skills to get what they want from life. Check out their Youtube channel for a bank of useful video content.

Resources for young people during the Coronavirus outbreak

If you’re a young person, MindMate can help you understand the way you’re feeling and manage your wellbeing and mental health during the Coronavirus outbreak and period of social isolation.

Skills Builder

Everyone needs eight essential skills to succeed - whatever their path in life. The Skills Builder Partnership is providing a range of resources for building these skills in a home setting. Set the skill level from beginner to expert (suitable for 11-18 years old) and pick from the list of 8 skills you want to develop, including: Listening, Problem solving, Staying positive, Leadership and Teamwork

Study Skills Webinar – Edge Hill University

This webinar from Hello Future Live 2021 offers top tips on how to revise well.

Studying during Lockdown – Short Films

The Sussex Learning Network has created various short films offering advice from local student mentors on studying and taking care of yourself during lockdown. These include advice from: Uyi a Pharmacy Student at University of Brighton, Imogen a Film Student at University of Chichester and Tiwa's 'Top Tips' for staying motivated!

Write It Out

Read real stories from people who have had, or are living with, mental health issues. Hearing from someone going through a similar experience can be supportive whilst you are going through the demands of higher education and facing the difficulties of life.