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How do I apply for Uni while on an access course

For A level Universities would be sent predicted grades right?

So how does it work for Access courses and can I apply through clearing?
Original post by shimmyjimmyfor2
For A level Universities would be sent predicted grades right?

So how does it work for Access courses and can I apply through clearing?


Your Access course tutor should provide a reference and your predicted grades for your UCAS application. Why wait for clearing when you apply to five choices by the January deadline?
Original post by normaw
Your Access course tutor should provide a reference and your predicted grades for your UCAS application. Why wait for clearing when you apply to five choices by the January deadline?

I havent done much work and my tutor takes forever to respond how many units should i do to build a strong case?
Original post by shimmyjimmyfor2
I havent done much work and my tutor takes forever to respond how many units should i do to build a strong case?


I've seen other members on the forum mention 5/6 units, but your tutor should advise you.
Original post by normaw
I've seen other members on the forum mention 5/6 units, but your tutor should advise you.

you reckon i can do 5/6 before end of december?
Original post by shimmyjimmyfor2
you reckon i can do 5/6 before end of december?


I've not done an Access course so I can't answer that. Maybe ask in the following thread:

https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=7456429
Please read the guidence by the Access Course/ check with the college directly. Below is the process for the course I am currently studying.

Learn direct has a document called "UCAS 2025 Applications Guide" which lists all the deadlines and has a step by step guide how to fill your application form.

For the learndirect you need to:

complete 5 units before the college can provide a reference

complete 9 units before the college can provide predicted grades


If you are applying before 31 Jan 2025, you need submit your application form to UCAS before 20 Dec. It will then be sent to learndirect for a check. They will also provide a reference at this point and it will then be returned back to UCAS and only then UCAS will send your application to universities.

If you don't have 5 units and your application completed by 20 Dec, I suggest you apply as an independent student. You will have to provide a reference though yourself - i.e. from a current employer. You cannot submit your application without a reference (very important).
For clearning (have not been through this process myself, I suggest you check UCAS guides as well):

For learn direct:

30 June 2025 - Applications received by this deadline will be sent to (18:00 UK time) universities and colleges. After this time, applications are automatically entered into Clearing.
5 July 2025 Clearing opens.

You have to complete your course by 30 June 2025 if you intend to start your degree in Sept/ Oct 2025. It takes up to 6 weeks to finalie the results before they are ratified by the board and then sent to universities.
Original post by BelindaFlamazing
Please read the guidence by the Access Course/ check with the college directly. Below is the process for the course I am currently studying.
Learn direct has a document called "UCAS 2025 Applications Guide" which lists all the deadlines and has a step by step guide how to fill your application form.
For the learndirect you need to:

complete 5 units before the college can provide a reference

complete 9 units before the college can provide predicted grades


If you are applying before 31 Jan 2025, you need submit your application form to UCAS before 20 Dec. It will then be sent to learndirect for a check. They will also provide a reference at this point and it will then be returned back to UCAS and only then UCAS will send your application to universities.
If you don't have 5 units and your application completed by 20 Dec, I suggest you apply as an independent student. You will have to provide a reference though yourself - i.e. from a current employer. You cannot submit your application without a reference (very important).

Thank you

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