The Student Room Group
Uni students - Complete our survey >>
Uni students - Complete our survey >>
Uni students - Complete our survey >>

How is the UCAS reference used by universities?

I never read on any university's website that they take the reference letter into consideration when choosing applicants. It's always grades/aptitude test/personal statement.

Why do they need a reference letter, then?

Does anyone know?
Original post by ib_hopeful
I never read on any university's website that they take the reference letter into consideration when choosing applicants. It's always grades/aptitude test/personal statement.

Why do they need a reference letter, then?

Does anyone know?


For verification of an applicant's grades.
For predicted grades.
For an explanation of any extenuating circumstances.
For an account of the applicant's strengths and sometimes weaknesses.
For an overview of what the applicant is like.
For confirmation that the applicant isn't totally hopeless/telling lies.
For a statement that the applicant is a suitable candidate for higher education.
etc. etc. etc.

Just because it doesn't expressly say the reference is used on the website, it doesn't mean for one minute that it isn't.
Original post by Carnationlilyrose
For verification of an applicant's grades.
For predicted grades.
For an explanation of any extenuating circumstances.
For an account of the applicant's strengths and sometimes weaknesses.
For an overview of what the applicant is like.
For confirmation that the applicant isn't totally hopeless/telling lies.
For a statement that the applicant is a suitable candidate for higher education.
etc. etc. etc.

Just because it doesn't expressly say the reference is used on the website, it doesn't mean for one minute that it isn't.


Besides your teacher and tutor who else is allowed to give a reference?
Original post by Raizelcadres
Besides your teacher and tutor who else is allowed to give a reference?


Someone who can comment on your academic qualities. For people who have been out of education for a while, it can be an employer, but it's not desirable and in cases like that, they should contact the university and discuss their options.
Original post by Carnationlilyrose
Someone who can comment on your academic qualities. For people who have been out of education for a while, it can be an employer, but it's not desirable and in cases like that, they should contact the university and discuss their options.


So my friend whos in his second year of university would not be allowed?
Original post by Raizelcadres
So my friend whos in his second year of university would not be allowed?


Not really, no.
Original post by Carnationlilyrose
Not really, no.


Thank you.

Quick Reply

Related discussions

Latest

Trending

Trending

Articles for you