Failed First Year

1

Hey, so I failed my first year of university. I have no choice but to reapply as a 2026 UCAS applicant. I was now wondering whether I should mention my year at university. Do I need to mention I failed? If I don't mention it, how do I frame the two-year gap so it doesn't seem like I did nothing? I would really appreciate any help, especially from people who have faced the same thing.

Also what are my chances for top unis.

(edited 3 months ago)

Reply 1

normaw

Volunteer Section Leader, Clearing and Applications Advisor

20

Original post

by anoynimouas

Hey, so I failed my first year of university, including resits. I have no choice but to reapply as a 2026 UCAS applicant. I was now wondering whether I should mention my year at university. Do I need to mention I failed? If I don't mention it, how do I frame the two-year gap so it doesn't seem like I did nothing? I would really appreciate any help, especially from people who have faced the same thing.

Also what are my chances for top unis.

You have to include your full educational history otherwise your application could be considered fraudulent. The unis you apply to will want to see a reference and a grade transcript from your current uni. If you have failed twice, do you think it is realistic to start a new course? Also, be aware that if you have used two years of student finance, you will have to fund the first year of a new degree yourself.

Reply 2

CCCU Official

Official Rep

18

Yes, as above you will need to include your full education. Are you wanting to reapply for the same course?

Reply 3

McGinger

20

You must list your previous Uni study - and btw, UCAS and the Unis all have ways of spotting those who lie about this. Be aware that most Unis will want you to use your previous Uni for your reference - and they will want to see a copy of your Uni grade transcript.

You do have to be realistic about your ability to immediately restart, and your ability to actually succeed on a degree course elsewhere. It may be better to either do an OU unit to show that you do actually have the required ability and focus, or to look at somethink more practical like a degree apprenticeship.

Reply 4

LSBU

Official Rep

11

Original post

by anoynimouas

Hey, so I failed my first year of university, including resits. I have no choice but to reapply as a 2026 UCAS applicant. I was now wondering whether I should mention my year at university. Do I need to mention I failed? If I don't mention it, how do I frame the two-year gap so it doesn't seem like I did nothing? I would really appreciate any help, especially from people who have faced the same thing.
Also what are my chances for top unis.

Hi there,
Firstly, don’t be too hard on yourself; it takes courage to reflect on your situation and plan your next steps. Many students face setbacks in their first year at university, and what matters most now is how you move forward and present your experience in a positive, honest way.

Yes, you do need to mention your previous year at university in your UCAS application. UCAS asks all applicants to declare any higher education studies, even if they didn’t complete the course. Failing to disclose it could cause issues later if universities request transcripts or if UCAS cross-checks your records. However, you don’t need to go into detail about “failing”; instead, you can briefly and maturely explain that you started a course but realised it wasn’t the right fit at that time, and you’ve since gained clarity and motivation for your new subject.

When it comes to the two-year gap, focus on showing how you used that time productively. You can mention things like part-time work, volunteering, independent study, online courses, caring responsibilities, or personal development. Even if you took time to reflect or reset, you can frame it as a period where you developed skills like resilience, independence, and self-awareness, all qualities universities value.

If you’re considering reapplying to London South Bank University (LSBU), we welcome students who are looking for a fresh start and want to re-engage with their studies. LSBU has a supportive admissions process, and we look at your full profile, not just your academic history, but also your motivation and potential to succeed. Many of our students have rejoined higher education after breaks or course changes and gone on to achieve great success.

In terms of your chances at top universities, it depends on your grades, personal statement, and references, but having an honest and reflective explanation will not automatically hold you back. Admissions tutors appreciate maturity and self-awareness. Focus your personal statement on what you’ve learned from the experience and why you’re now ready to succeed.

If you want more tailored advice, LSBU’s admissions team can guide you through reapplying and how to present your gap years effectively. You can also join our Open Day on Saturday, the 15th of November, to chat with advisors and get help shaping your new application.

👉 You can sign up here: LSBU Open Day.
👉 You can also chat with our students through our Unibuddy platform: Chat with our students.

Remember, a setback doesn’t define your future; it’s how you respond that counts. With the right mindset and preparation, you can absolutely make a strong comeback and succeed the second time around.

Reply 5

anoynimouas

OP

1

Original post

by normaw

You have to include your full educational history otherwise your application could be considered fraudulent. The unis you apply to will want to see a reference and a grade transcript from your current uni. If you have failed twice, do you think it is realistic to start a new course? Also, be aware that if you have used two years of student finance, you will have to fund the first year of a new degree yourself.

Okay understood thanks, when I said resits I meant resit exams not the year.

Failed First Year

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