The Student Room Group

What to consider before the UCAS deadline.

Hi everyone!

As the UCAS deadline creeps up, I'd like to share a few important points to consider whether you have, or have not, submitted your application yes.

Start Now ⌛️
If you have not started your application yet, I highly suggest getting started. It is not a task that can just be completed the night before, especially if you are applying through your school.

Once you have completed your personal statement, your school must check it for errors, this can take time and you may need to correct some mistakes, additionally they will be checking other applications at the same time, so don't leave it till last minute.

Make sure you have appropriate options 🏆
It's excellent to have high aspirations, but don't forget to provide yourself a plan B. The general rule is 1-2 aspirational options, 2-3 options that match your grades, then at least one safety option that is below your predicted grades.

Cost of Living 💵
Whether you are travelling or moving, it's important to check the how much things cost. This could be trains, buses, fuel or this could be cost of accommodations both private and university owned. Personally, one of the reasons I chose the University of Lancashire was the low accommodation costs, which has massively reduced my financial stress compared to friends I have spoken to at different universities. It's best to research and be prepared, rather than surprised.

Visit the campus 🏙
Try and visit the campus before the deadline if possible, even if it's not an open day. If this is not possible, see if a virtual tour is available, or look at many photos. Getting a feel for the campus can be important. If this is impossible, try to attend an offer holder after the deadline.

I wish you all luck in your applications, please feel free to ask me any questions,
-Sophia (University of Lancashire)

Reply 1

Preparing for a university interview or audition

We know interviews can be nerve-wracking, but we want to make your experience an enjoyable one. By viewing your work and meeting with you we can assess your suitability for the course. The interview is also a good opportunity for you to ask questions to make sure we're right for you. On this page you’ll find some advice, what to expect on the day and as well as where to find your subject specific guidance. Here's some frequently asked questions:

How long will my interview take?
Interviews vary depending on the course you have applied for; some will take longer than others. For full guidance please refer to the notes you were provided on the original email inviting you to interview.

I have booked an interview but not yet received a Microsoft Teams link. What do I do?
You will receive your individual Teams link via email and this may only be sent to you the day before the interview or the day of the interview. If you have not received it then please contact Admissions on +44 (0) 1772 892444 and they will be able to help you.

When will I hear the outcome of my interview?
We will aim to update you on the outcome of your interview as soon as possible. For courses with a limited number of places available we do have to interview all shortlisted candidates who submitted their application before the UCAS equal considerations deadline. As a result, it may be a few weeks before you hear back, please do not panic, our admission team will be in contact. Make sure you keep checking your emails and UCAS Hub (previously UCAS Track) for updates.

For more advice and frequently asked questions, please visit here 🙂

Let me know if you have any questions and best of luck,
^Zac

Reply 2

Join our online personal statement session ✍️ 8 January - 6pm - 7pm

We'll share tips from our experts and answer your questions ahead of the personal statement deadline (14 Jan 2026)

Are you writing your UCAS personal statement, but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we're here to help. Join our personal statement session online for the latest guidance.

During the session, our team will explain what to include in a successful personal statement. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions, so you can feel confident.

Book your place here!

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