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Deffering a year to do a Foundation Diploma

Hello, I’ve recently handed in my UCAS application to study BA Architecture at Nottingham, Liverpool, York and Edinburgh for 2026 entry. However, I am sure I would like to complete a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design before I go. If everything works out and I get offers for my choices, is anyone aware of the deferral policies for these universities? Is doing a foundation year a good enough reason to defer my place until 2027 entry? Thank you :smile:)

Reply 1

Original post
by gdunn08
Hello, I’ve recently handed in my UCAS application to study BA Architecture at Nottingham, Liverpool, York and Edinburgh for 2026 entry. However, I am sure I would like to complete a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design before I go. If everything works out and I get offers for my choices, is anyone aware of the deferral policies for these universities? Is doing a foundation year a good enough reason to defer my place until 2027 entry? Thank you :smile:)

Hi @gdunn08

Unfortunately I am unaware of the deferral policies, I don't know if it is the unis you might want to get in touch with for that information. However you may reapply for different unis during foundation year or change your mind.

In terms of whether it is a good enough reason to defer, I definitely think so! I did a foundation and I feel it was a great decision. I have a whole post on all the benefits if you are interested in knowing why I enjoyed it so much. Why study an art and design foundation (FAD) year? - The Student Room

I hope this helps :smile:
-Grace (Kingston Rep)

Reply 2

Just email or phone each of your Unis and ask the question. This doesn't mean you have to do this, you are literally 'just asking'. Most Unis will be fine with a straight forward deferral - and actually they wont care what you are actually doing during your gap-year, you could just be working in Tescos, it would still be fine.

Reply 3

Hello!

You can email [email protected] to request a deferral. In most cases, the admissions team can then amend the year of entry for your chosen course to the deferred year (2027). In terms of what is accepted, requests are considered on an individual, case-by-case basis, and approval is at the discretion of the university or the specific academic department.

You don't need to be holding an offer when you make this request. For some courses, late deferral requests (close to the start date) may not be possible, and you might be asked to reapply the following year - so it's best to do this as soon as you're sure. UG Admissions are happy to answer any questions you have!

Best of luck with your foundation diploma😇🖌️

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