Applying to university and UCAS deadlines

UCAS application deadlines

All applications to UK universities for full-time undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). No matter the course or university you're applying to, you need to keep UCAS deadlines in mind, as missing them could jeopardise your application. 

Don't leave your application to the last minute. Allow time to research courses and universities and attend open days, higher education fairs, and conferences. 

UCAS deadlines 2024

The infographic below contains the list of UCAS deadlines and key dates for students applying for 2024 entry. Some of the dates may not be relevant to you but make sure to read it through and note down any that are. They are also listed further down for screen readers. 

Remember, it never hurts to be organised long before a deadline. 

• 16 October 2023 - Deadline for applications to Oxford and Cambridge universities and for most medicine, veterinary, and dentistry courses. 
• 31 January 2024 - Deadline for most other undergraduate university applications. 
• 28 February 2024 - UCAS Extra opens for any applicants who received no offers, or who rejected all their offers. 
• 16 May 2024 - Decisions back from universities for 31 January applications.
• 6 June 2024 - Reply to offers by this date if you’ve received all your decisions on 16 May 2024.
• 30 June 2024 - Applications received after 6pm will automatically be entered into Clearing.  
• 4 July 2024 - Last date to add a UCAS Extra choice.  
• 5 July 2024 - Clearing 2023 opens.
• 24 July 2024 – Reply to offers if you get all your decisions by 12 July 2023.
• 21 September 2024 - Final date for 2023 UCAS undergraduate applications. 
• 21 October 2024 - Clearing 2024 closes.

UCAS online application 

The UCAS application process varies depending on the type of institution you’re applying for, the level of degree and how you're choosing to study. 

The UCAS online application procedure is available on the UCAS website, via UCAS Hub, alongside details of all the courses available. So, you can apply from any computer with access to the internet. 

UCAS works closely with schools, colleges, libraries and other agencies to ensure that all applicants have access to this system. 

Performing arts students can apply to a conservatoire. Applications to most of these institutions need to be made through UCAS Conservatoires. Many colleges also recruit through the UCAS system.  

Applications to part-time courses are slightly different, and you will need to contact universities individually to find out how to apply. 

If you are looking for postgraduate (PG) study, some are accessed via the UCAS postgraduate service, while most are processed by direct application. There is normally no limit as to the number of direct online applications you can make to PG courses.