UCAS Application tips
Hi everyone,
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
Reply 1
Original post
by pinklemonpiggyHi everyone,
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
What are your predicted grades (A Level equivalent)? The unis above are nom-LNAT and typically A*AA/AAA.
Some people may prefer Russell Group unis, below are RG unis grouped according to requirements:
A*AA and requiring LNAT: Bristol, Durham and 3 London unis(KCL, LSE and UCL). Oxbridge are closed to applications now. LNAT is highly unpredictable and try limiting to not more than 2 in uour UCAS choices.
A*AA: Exeter, Manchester, Nottingham and Warwick.
A*AA/AAA: Leeds, Liverpool and York.
AAA/AAB: Cardiff and Sheffield.
Reading and SOAS are decent non-RG unis requiring AAB/ABB.
Reply 2
Original post
by cksiuWhat are your predicted grades (A Level equivalent)? The unis above are nom-LNAT and typically A*AA/AAA.
Some people may prefer Russell Group unis, below are RG unis grouped according to requirements:
A*AA and requiring LNAT: Bristol, Durham and 3 London unis(KCL, LSE and UCL). Oxbridge are closed to applications now. LNAT is highly unpredictable and try limiting to not more than 2 in uour UCAS choices.
A*AA: Exeter, Manchester, Nottingham and Warwick.
A*AA/AAA: Leeds, Liverpool and York.
AAA/AAB: Cardiff and Sheffield.
Reading and SOAS are decent non-RG unis requiring AAB/ABB.
Some people may prefer Russell Group unis, below are RG unis grouped according to requirements:
A*AA and requiring LNAT: Bristol, Durham and 3 London unis(KCL, LSE and UCL). Oxbridge are closed to applications now. LNAT is highly unpredictable and try limiting to not more than 2 in uour UCAS choices.
A*AA: Exeter, Manchester, Nottingham and Warwick.
A*AA/AAA: Leeds, Liverpool and York.
AAA/AAB: Cardiff and Sheffield.
Reading and SOAS are decent non-RG unis requiring AAB/ABB.
I’m already aware of which unis require the LNAT — I even visited Durham just in case — but I’m not really interested in putting myself through that stress unless it genuinely helps. I’m unsure whether taking the LNAT would actually make me look “more dedicated to law,” if that makes sense, or if unis don’t care unless they specifically require it.
Most of the unis I’m looking at historically accept people with predicted percentages ranging from around 70% up to the high 90s. Do you think that means they’re still expecting the exact A Level equivalents (like AAA/AAA)? Or would something like AA B / AAB be viewed similarly to AAA even though it’s not literally the same combination?
Basically: if the percentages line up, does that give me some flexibility, or do they strictly want the specific grade pattern?
Reply 3
Original post
by pinklemonpiggyMy predicted grades are A*, A, B
I’m already aware of which unis require the LNAT — I even visited Durham just in case — but I’m not really interested in putting myself through that stress unless it genuinely helps. I’m unsure whether taking the LNAT would actually make me look “more dedicated to law,” if that makes sense, or if unis don’t care unless they specifically require it.
Most of the unis I’m looking at historically accept people with predicted percentages ranging from around 70% up to the high 90s. Do you think that means they’re still expecting the exact A Level equivalents (like AAA/AAA)? Or would something like AA B / AAB be viewed similarly to AAA even though it’s not literally the same combination?
Basically: if the percentages line up, does that give me some flexibility, or do they strictly want the specific grade pattern?
I’m already aware of which unis require the LNAT — I even visited Durham just in case — but I’m not really interested in putting myself through that stress unless it genuinely helps. I’m unsure whether taking the LNAT would actually make me look “more dedicated to law,” if that makes sense, or if unis don’t care unless they specifically require it.
Most of the unis I’m looking at historically accept people with predicted percentages ranging from around 70% up to the high 90s. Do you think that means they’re still expecting the exact A Level equivalents (like AAA/AAA)? Or would something like AA B / AAB be viewed similarly to AAA even though it’s not literally the same combination?
Basically: if the percentages line up, does that give me some flexibility, or do they strictly want the specific grade pattern?
Non-LNAT unis won't know whether you are taking the LNAT. So it is absolutely no need to take LNAT if you are not applying to the LNAT unis. It depends on whether you want Bristol and Durham.
UCAS statistics on previous admission grades might not be as straightforward one think of. First it includes contextual offers. It is also possible that the applicant was offered A*AA or AAA, missed 1 grade (i.e. achieved A*AA/AAB) and the uni was lenient and still admitted the student. So securing an offer is important.
Frankly, the grade B is critical. Is it possible to push up the B to A? If so, you may apply to 3 to 4 A*AA unis and 1 to 2 AAA uni. Otherwise, you may consider still applying to A*AA and AAA unis, with 1 or 2 AAB uni.
Majority of ABB/BBB unis went into Clearing in previously years, so these unis might be a bit overly safe at the main cycle. Good luck.
Reply 4
Original post
by pinklemonpiggyHi everyone,
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
Heyy @pinklemonpiggy!
Finalising your UCAS choices is a very stressful time, but it sounds like you’re thinking about all the right things! You raised some good question about Lancaster University so I’ll do my best to answer them!
LNAT:
As you’ve already mentioned, you don’t need the LNAT to study Law at Lancaster. While taking it can open doors to a few high-ranking Law schools that require it, if you’re happy with your LNAT-free options, there’s no need to put yourself under extra pressure.
That said, if you’re unsure about your options, it might be worth taking just to keep those options open. Otherwise, not taking the LNAT won’t disadvantage you academically. The test mainly assesses critical thinking, analysis, and the ability to interpret information under time pressure, skills you’ll naturally develop during your Law degree. It can give a small “head start,” but it’s far from essential.
Lancaster University Law School:
Lancaster is very research-focused, which means the lecturers are actively involved in current legal research and are specialists in their fields. This comes through in lectures and seminars, where they often reference their own work e.g., books, papers, or ongoing research. Modules are also regularly updated to reflect their expertise, giving students the chance to explore niche topics you might not find elsewhere.
A key part of our Law School experience is the Law Society. If you haven’t looked into Law Societies at other unis, I’d really recommend it, they’re a main point of contact outside of lecturers and academic advisors and can have a huge impact on your student experience.
Lancaster’s Law Society is very active and offers a ton of opportunities. They run mooting competitions, including the chance to compete internationally in events like the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot in Vienna. They also organise networking events with top law firms, we’ve had workshops and visits from Clifford Chance, Allen & Overy, Addleshaw Goddard, and more. On top of that, they run academic workshops, guidance on training contracts, application processes, and other career-focused advice.
Social Life + Student Experience:
Even though Lancaster is smaller than some other university towns, the social scene is still lively. We have three main clubs in town, including the student nightclub Sugarhouse, which is a big favourite. There are also lots of nice pubs, cocktail bars, and cafés, making for a more relaxed social scene outside of clubbing.
On campus, we also have college bars, which offer a cheaper and more relaxed alternative to going out in town. A lot of our sports teams and societies use the space for socials and events, and it’s always buzzing with people, making it a great place to meet friends and get involved in campus life.
If you’re after a bigger night out, Manchester is just an hour away by train, and tickets can be very affordable if booked in advance. It’s a perfect option for when you want a city vibe without having to live in one.
Accommodation + Campus:
At Lancaster University, we have 8 undergraduate colleges and 1 postgraduate college, so all of our accommodations are organised around these colleges. This gives a really strong sense of community, as each college has its own social spaces, events, and even bars.
Each college has its own unique vibe which makes it easy to find a community that feels like a good fit for you.
I like to think of the campus as its own little town because almost everything you need is right here. We have a wide range of food options, fast food like Sultans and Friends, cafés like Costa and The Deli, and even a bubble tea store. For groceries, there’s Spar and Co-op, and the campus also has a post office, WHSmith, and a GP clinic. Everything is within walking distance, so you can get what you need without having to leave the campus.
Sorry this has been a long message, but I hope it gives you a clear picture of what life and study are like at Lancaster! If you have any further questions, feel free to ask~
Rachel
Lancaster University Student Ambassador
(Third year Law Student)
Reply 5
Original post
by pinklemonpiggyHi everyone,
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
Hi @pinklemonpiggy,
If you’re worried about Exeter being far away as an international student, honestly most of us in that position settle in really quickly. The city is small, safe, and packed with students, so you never feel isolated. Once you’ve done the journey a couple of times, it stops feeling “far” and just becomes part of uni life.
Socially, Exeter is a lot more lively than people expect. It’s not a huge city, but because students make up such a big part of it, there’s always something going on - clubs, bars, pubs, societies, sports nights, you name it. It’s the kind of place where you bump into people you know everywhere, which makes it easy to make friends.
For Law, you don’t need the LNAT at all, so there’s no extra test stress. Exeter focuses on your top three grades, your personal statement, and your reference, and they do consider contextual factors. If your application is strong overall, you’ll be taken seriously even with one grade you’re worried about.
The Law school has a good reputation, and the support is strong - the staff are approachable, teaching is organised, and there are loads of opportunities like mooting, pro bono projects, career workshops, and links with firms for networking. It’s definitely a place where you can build a solid foundation for your legal career.
Accommodation is pretty standard for a campus uni: lots of choices, mostly modern, and everything is within walking distance of each other. The city is clean, safe, green, and very student-friendly - good balance of chill and fun.
If you’re leaning toward Exeter and the only thing holding you back is the distance or uncertainty, most international students end up feeling very at home here.
If you want more detail on life here, the Law course, or what it’s like settling in, just let me know! 🙂
Klaudia
University of Exeter Student Ambassador
(edited 4 weeks ago)
Reply 6
Original post
by ExeterStudentRepHi @pinklemonpiggy,
If you’re worried about Exeter being far away as an international student, honestly most of us in that position settle in really quickly. The city is small, safe, and packed with students, so you never feel isolated. Once you’ve done the journey a couple of times, it stops feeling “far” and just becomes part of uni life.
Socially, Exeter is a lot more lively than people expect. It’s not a huge city, but because students make up such a big part of it, there’s always something going on - clubs, bars, pubs, societies, sports nights, you name it. It’s the kind of place where you bump into people you know everywhere, which makes it easy to make friends.
For Law, you don’t need the LNAT at all, so there’s no extra test stress. Exeter focuses on your top three grades, your personal statement, and your reference, and they do consider contextual factors. If your application is strong overall, you’ll be taken seriously even with one grade you’re worried about.
The Law school has a good reputation, and the support is strong - the staff are approachable, teaching is organised, and there are loads of opportunities like mooting, pro bono projects, career workshops, and links with firms for networking. It’s definitely a place where you can build a solid foundation for your legal career.
Accommodation is pretty standard for a campus uni: lots of choices, mostly modern, and everything is within walking distance of each other. The city is clean, safe, green, and very student-friendly - good balance of chill and fun.
If you’re leaning toward Exeter and the only thing holding you back is the distance or uncertainty, most international students end up feeling very at home here.
If you want more detail on life here, the Law course, or what it’s like settling in, just let me know! 🙂
Klaudia
University of Exeter Student Ambassador
If you’re worried about Exeter being far away as an international student, honestly most of us in that position settle in really quickly. The city is small, safe, and packed with students, so you never feel isolated. Once you’ve done the journey a couple of times, it stops feeling “far” and just becomes part of uni life.
Socially, Exeter is a lot more lively than people expect. It’s not a huge city, but because students make up such a big part of it, there’s always something going on - clubs, bars, pubs, societies, sports nights, you name it. It’s the kind of place where you bump into people you know everywhere, which makes it easy to make friends.
For Law, you don’t need the LNAT at all, so there’s no extra test stress. Exeter focuses on your top three grades, your personal statement, and your reference, and they do consider contextual factors. If your application is strong overall, you’ll be taken seriously even with one grade you’re worried about.
The Law school has a good reputation, and the support is strong - the staff are approachable, teaching is organised, and there are loads of opportunities like mooting, pro bono projects, career workshops, and links with firms for networking. It’s definitely a place where you can build a solid foundation for your legal career.
Accommodation is pretty standard for a campus uni: lots of choices, mostly modern, and everything is within walking distance of each other. The city is clean, safe, green, and very student-friendly - good balance of chill and fun.
If you’re leaning toward Exeter and the only thing holding you back is the distance or uncertainty, most international students end up feeling very at home here.
If you want more detail on life here, the Law course, or what it’s like settling in, just let me know! 🙂
Klaudia
University of Exeter Student Ambassador
Hi Klaudia, thank you so much, this is really helpful!
I had one question about grades because I’ve seen a lot of mixed info online, and there isn’t too much clear info online specifically for Exeter Law entry requirements beyond the standard AAA. Do you know whether Exeter ever accepts applicants who are predicted slightly below AAA if the overall application is strong (e.g. A* A C or A* A B)?
I’m just wondering how much things like a strong personal statement, reference, or any relevant experience can balance out one weaker predicted grade. I really like Exeter, so I’m trying to understand how flexible admissions can be in practice.
Thanks again! 😊
Reply 7
Original post
by pinklemonpiggyHi everyone,
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
I’m currently trying to finalise my 5 UCAS choices for Law and I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed, so I’d really appreciate some advice or experiences!
Unis I’m considering so far:
Liverpool
Sheffield
York
Exeter
Lancaster
I live outside the UK, so technically everywhere is a plane or train journey anyway — but I keep worrying that Exeter might feel too far away. If anyone has experience studying there as an international student, how is the distance in reality?
My concerns / questions:
• LNAT — is it worth doing?
I know some unis don’t require it (e.g., the ones above), but I’m wondering if doing the LNAT widens my options or if it’s unnecessary stress if I’m happy with LNAT-free unis.
• Social life + student experience
What are social spaces and nightlife like at these unis?
I’ve heard Lancaster’s nightlife isn’t great — is that true or over-exaggerated?
How do Liverpool, Sheffield, York, and Exeter compare in terms of student atmosphere?
• Entry requirements
Are there good Law schools that aren’t super strict on needing AAA predicted? I care a lot about the course structure, facilities, and overall vibe, but I don’t want to aim only at unis that will reject me based on one grade.
• Course differences
If anyone knows:
Which of these unis has the strongest Law faculty?
Any major downsides to the Law course at these unis (teaching quality, assessment style, support, placement opportunities, etc.)?
• Accommodation + city life
What is the accommodation like at each? And the city/town environment? I want somewhere with a good balance — not too intense, but not dead either.
• Other unis I should consider?
Any suggestions for Law schools that are solid academically, not insanely competitive, and have a good student life?
Overall, I’m trying to balance:
course quality + accommodation + city vibes + reasonable entry requirements.
Right now everything feels confusing, so any advice, rankings, personal experiences, or comparisons would be amazing.
Thanks so much!
Hi there!
LNAT
As suggested below SOAS is a great option. Our grade requirements for law are AAB and with a contextual offer it would be ABB. In terms of the LNAT which you are worried about, it is not necessary to take it if you have completed a-level subjects. However, if you have completed BTEC subjects then you would need need to complete the LNAT. That being said, completing the LNAT can lead to lower offers being made.
Social Life + Student Experience
What's great about SOAS is that we have a lot of societies which enhance the student life. For example, we have Fashion Society, DJ Society, Law Society which have all held great events like balls and bar nights. We also have a bar within our university which offers great prices and is open from 4:30pm -11pm. The uni is based in Russell Square which is perfect for students as you get to explore the city alongside learning. We have Oxford Street, Kings Cross, The British Museum, The British Library and Euston nearby. Another advantage is that we are close to other universities like UCL and Birbeck, making the nightlife more lively. For more information on student experiences, you can chat with our students to see how they have found their journey at SOAS.
Course Structure
The Law course provides a lot of facilities to students. For example, we have options to complete Pro Bono work within our second and third year. We are able to connect with firms through campus ambassadors as well as networking events held by the societies. The lecturers are also individuals who have experience and have been in the field which makes their knowledge even more valuable. Another great aspect is that we can choose to study abroad for a year which would give you the diversity in experience and the opportunity to pick up new skills. Regarding the course structure I have linked the website here, where everything is broken down and you get a chance to see all the modules available.
Accommodation
We have accommodations available for first year students, located 5-10 minutes away (walking distance). You have the opportunity to choose if you would like to share accommodations with other university students from UCL, for example, or if you would like SOAS exclusive dorms. The accommodations are situated at a great area as you are close to the uni to study as well as the touristy areas to have that nightlife.
I would recommend coming to a campus tour if possible to check out the area and how the university is.
I hope this has helped.
Good Luck!
Sarah
Reply 8
i can't vouch for any of these uni's from a student's perspective but i've lived just outside of liverpool my whole life and let me tell you: it's got the best blend of nightlife and daylife. everyone is very friendly as long as you stay humble, the moment you step out of line (e.g. being a bully etc) you're pulled up by the collar and you're expected to dust yourself off and learn from it. we don't tolerate individualism, liverpool is very much a collective which is great news for anyone who wants to contribute to the community. it's a city but feels like a town once you get to know it, purely because of its closeknit nature. transport is great as we have regular trains, buses, subway and a ferry.
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