UCAS

UCAS checklist

UCAS checklist

So you curiously log in to the UCAS portal to find out what the hassle is all about. But lo and behold! You are taken back by what appears to be what can be only be called the most complex application layout in the world. But worry not for we are here with a comprehensive guide that summarizes for you the essence of the application process.

Choices

This is the guiding point of the rest of the application. You are allowed to choose a maximum of 5 courses from either the same or different universities. All the research that you have done should reflect itself in a careful selection of the 5 degrees you aim to get enrolled in. Ideally, it is suggested to keep an ambitious risky choice, also called the ‘firm’ choice, complemented by 2 or 3 safer choices, and another ‘insurance’ choice that will definitely accept you. The firm choice will base its conditional offer on a difficult grade requirement, whereas the insurance choice will demand a lenient grade for admission.

Employment

You are expected to enter details only of paid work that you have done before. It is always favorable for universities to see that you have direct work experience in the subject area, as it demonstrates a better aptitude for the degree. However, if your portfolio only includes unpaid internships or social work, it’s better to talk about it in the next section.

Personal statement

The personal statement is meant to be a reflection of your dreams, your aspirations, and your work ethic. It is supposed to outline your past experiences and how they have shaped you. It should convey how you will be the best applicant to utilize the university’s resources to benefit society. It must capture the entirety of your thoughts and opinions about the degree you aim to pursue and why you will be a far worthy candidate than the rest. A well-written personal statement can go a long way in securing your admission, and may well be just your best bet to outpace the severe competition that awaits you. For more information on writing a brilliant personal statement, click here.

Reference

For this portion, you need to request a tutor to provide his opinion about your abilities and talents as a student. A third person opinion on your personality goes a long way to guide universities about your suitability as an applicant. Make sure to get it done from someone who can genuinely testify to your worth as a student.
So there you have it, an article that covers all the sections of the UCAS application. We hope that the task ahead of you has become at least the slightest bit less intimidating. Best of luck!