UCAS application with predicted grades but no reference

4

I'm an independent candidate and recently recieved predicted grades from an exam centre. They did state on their website that they have no contact with ucas so I have to figure out the ref stuff myself which leaves me in a tough spot. I have no one to do my reference. Do i contact someone from my old college to say smth? Or would it not be valid considering my predicted grades aren't from them and are from a centre? Or can i contact unis directly and explain that i have the grades but not the reference, would i still be considered? Any help would be appreciated, thanks!

(edited 2 months ago)

Reply 1

Torrades

9

Try by all means to get a reference. I would start with your old college. Otherwise a tutor or employer. If in doubt, call UCAS and they will advise you too. Good luck.

Reply 2

mesub

Volunteer Team, Clearing and Applications Advisor

22

Original post

by DreamyParfait

I'm an independent candidate and recently recieved predicted grades from an exam centre. They did state on their website that they have no contact with ucas so I have to figure out the ref stuff myself which leaves me in a tough spot. I have no one to do my reference. Do i contact someone from my old college to say smth? Or would it not be valid considering my predicted grades aren't from them and are from a centre? Or can i contact unis directly and explain that i have the grades but not the reference, would i still be considered? Any help would be appreciated, thanks!

You can try and get a reference from your old college, yes.

Reply 3

De Montfort University

Official Rep

17

Original post

by DreamyParfait

I'm an independent candidate and recently recieved predicted grades from an exam centre. They did state on their website that they have no contact with ucas so I have to figure out the ref stuff myself which leaves me in a tough spot. I have no one to do my reference. Do i contact someone from my old college to say smth? Or would it not be valid considering my predicted grades aren't from them and are from a centre? Or can i contact unis directly and explain that i have the grades but not the reference, would i still be considered? Any help would be appreciated, thanks!

Hi there,

For UCAS applications, a reference is still required, even if your predicted grades come from an exam centre that does not submit references or liaise with UCAS. The reference does not have to come from the same place that provided your predicted grades.

Your best option is usually to contact:

•

A teacher or tutor from your previous college/sixth form, or

•

Someone who has taught or academically supported you before.

That reference would still be valid, as it is intended to comment on your academic ability, work ethic, and suitability for higher education. It’s very normal for independent candidates to have predicted grades and references coming from different sources.

If contacting your old college isn’t possible, another option could be:

•

A private tutor,

•

An access course tutor

•

In some cases, a professional academic supervisor (e.g. from recognised study or training).

In terms of contacting universities directly, you can absolutely explain your circumstances, and admissions teams are generally understanding. However, most universities (including DMU) would still expect a UCAS reference to be submitted for the application to be considered formally.

If you explain your situation clearly to a former tutor, most are happy to help, especially if you provide them with your personal statement and details of what you’re applying for.

Hope that helps,
Elmehdi - DMU representative and current student

UCAS application with predicted grades but no reference

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