🎓 What Are Contextual University Admissions?

At The University of Law, and at other universities across the UK, we know that grades alone don’t tell the whole story about a student’s potential. Some students face barriers that can impact their academic results, and that’s exactly why contextual admissions exist.

Put simply, contextual admissions mean looking at your grades in context, considering your background, personal circumstances, and life experiences alongside your academic achievements. This can sometimes lead to a contextual offer, where entry requirements are adjusted to reflect your potential to succeed.

(edited 2 months ago)

Reply 1

TheUniofLawStaff

Official Rep

Original post

by TheUniofLawStaff

At The University of Law, and at other universities across the UK, we know that grades alone don’t tell the whole story about a student’s potential. Some students face barriers that can impact their academic results, and that’s exactly why contextual admissions exist.
Put simply, contextual admissions mean looking at your grades in context, considering your background, personal circumstances, and life experiences alongside your academic achievements. This can sometimes lead to a contextual offer, where entry requirements are adjusted to reflect your potential to succeed.

📌 Types of Contextual Offers
Every university does things a little differently, but here are the most common types of contextual offers:

•

Reduced offer – You might be given an offer that’s one or two grades lower than the standard entry requirements. In some cases, you might be offered a place on a foundation year to help you prepare and succeed at university.

•

Guaranteed interview – Some contextual offers include guaranteed interviews, unconditional offers, or extra consideration during the admissions process.

•

Enrichment schemes – If you’re not yet applying, some universities (including The University of Law) offer schemes for eligible students that give you a taste of university life and study. These might include summer schools, skills workshops, or subject-specific taster days. Taking part can sometimes mean you get extra support or even a guaranteed offer when you apply.

Reply 2

TheUniofLawStaff

Official Rep

Original post

by TheUniofLawStaff

📌 Types of Contextual Offers
Every university does things a little differently, but here are the most common types of contextual offers:

•

Guaranteed interview – Some contextual offers include guaranteed interviews, unconditional offers, or extra consideration during the admissions process.

•

✅ Am I Eligible?
Each university has its own criteria, but you might be eligible if:

•

📍 You live in an area where few people go to university or that’s considered high deprivation

•

🏠 You’ve been in care or lived with a guardian/kinship carer

•

✂️ You’re estranged from your parents

•

❤️ You have unpaid caring responsibilities

•

🛂 You’re a refugee

•

🏫 You attended a school or college with below-average results or low progression to higher education

•

♿ You have a disability, learning difference, mental health condition, or long-term health condition

…and other factors, depending on the university.

Reply 3

TheUniofLawStaff

Official Rep

Original post

by TheUniofLawStaff

✅ Am I Eligible?
Each university has its own criteria, but you might be eligible if:

•

📍 You live in an area where few people go to university or that’s considered high deprivation

•

🏠 You’ve been in care or lived with a guardian/kinship carer

•

✂️ You’re estranged from your parents

•

❤️ You have unpaid caring responsibilities

•

🛂 You’re a refugee

•

🏫 You attended a school or college with below-average results or low progression to higher education

•

♿ You have a disability, learning difference, mental health condition, or long-term health condition

…and other factors, depending on the university.

🔍 Finding and Applying for Contextual Offers
Because criteria vary, it’s always worth checking the university’s website; some even have online eligibility tools that tell you if you qualify.

If in doubt, get in touch with the admissions team; they’ll be happy to help.

Applying is simple: when you complete your UCAS application, make sure you include all relevant information about your circumstances. This allows the university to see if you’re eligible for contextual admissions straight away.

At The University of Law, we believe in giving talented students every opportunity to succeed—so if you think you might be eligible, it’s worth exploring your options!

— Beth, Schools Outreach Officer, The University of Law