A Guide for Students Applying for University in the UK
Are you going to be in your last year of secondary school? Do you want to study at a university in the UK? We know that applying to university can feel like you’re navigating a maze, but don’t worry, this blog will teach you how to tackle the UCAS journey with confidence!
Mark the Key 2026 Dates
- 13 May 2025: UCAS Hub application open
- 2 Sep 2025: When your application can officially be submitted
- 15 Oct 2025: Deadline for applications to University of Oxford and Cambridge, and courses in Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science
- 14 Jan 2026: General deadline for most other undergraduate courses
- 26 Feb 2026: UCAS Extra opens if you’ve used 5 choices and still want a place
- 30 Jun 2026: Last date to submit an application before Clearing
- 4 Jul 2026: Last chance to add an Extra choice
- 5 Jul 2026: Clearing officially opens
- 19 Oct 2026: Final day to add a Clearing choice
Tip: Aim to submit by 14 Jan 2026 to ensure your application receives equal consideration and gives you the best chance to plan ahead.
Step-by-Step Application Journey
Research your Courses & Choices
- Start using the UCAS Hub from May 2025 to browse universities, courses, and entry requirements.
- Think about your interests, career goals, and learning style, do you want something more theory-heavy or practical? Large campus life or city vibes?
- Check things like course content, placement opportunities, entry requirements, and how the course is assessed.
- Don’t forget the location! Once you’ve got a shortlist of universities, Gobritanya can help you explore what student life looks like there, such as available student accommodation, transport, and community.
Tip: Attend university open days (in person or virtual) to get a real feel for the environment!
Write a Spotlight-Worthy Personal Statement
- This is your chance to shine! It’s the only part of your UCAS application where you get to speak directly to universities.
- Focus on why you’re passionate about the course and what sparked your interest.
- Highlight relevant experiences: school projects, books you've read, work experience, extracurriculars, volunteering, anything that shows your dedication.
- Reflect on your skills (teamwork, problem-solving, time management) and how they relate to the course.
- Keep it clear, structured, and personal.
Tip: Don’t stress if you don’t have course-related experience yet! You can use the summer to get started! Try launching a passion project, joining a club, volunteering, or taking an online course. Even small steps show initiative and interest. While you're at it, start drafting your personal statement and ask a teacher or advisor for feedback.
Secure a Reference & Pay the Fee
- Ask a teacher, tutor, or mentor to write your reference as early as possible, especially if they have lots of students to support.
- The reference should give insight into your academic ability, attitude, and potential.
- Your application also needs payment to be complete:
- The fee is around £28.50 (for up to 5 course choices).
- You pay this directly through the UCAS Hub.
Submit via UCAS Hub
- Once your personal information, course choices, personal statement, reference, and payment are all complete, you’re ready to submit.
- You can submit your application from 2 September 2025, and the final main deadline is 14 January 2026 (or 15 October 2025 if you're applying to Oxford, Cambridge, medicine, dentistry, or veterinary courses).
- Submitting early gives you peace of mind, and more time to focus on accommodation, finances, and prepping for interviews (if needed).
What Happens Next
- After you apply, universities begin reviewing. Offers usually arrive by late March 2026 following the 14th January submission.
- Respond to offers: pick a firm and optionally an insurance choice.
- Missed your top picks? Use UCAS Extra (from 26th February to 4th July) for another chance.
- If you're still not placed by 30th June, head into Clearing (from 5th July), where late options pop up.
Finding Student Accommodation
Once your university place is confirmed, you can start thinking about housing! Gobritanya helps you:
- Beat the rush: Book early to get the best locations and prices.
- Match your lifestyle: We offer studio rooms, ensuites, and twin studios
- View (virtually or IRL): No need to worry about missing out on a perfect flat.
- One-to-one accommodation expert: Our professional sales team will help you choose the best student accommodation for you and guide you through the booking process, contracts, payments, and move-in.
Why choose Gobritanya?
- 20+ locations across London (Zones 1–2): Live close to university, nightlife, and top attractions
- No UK guarantor needed: Want to pay in instalments? You can!
- Price-Match Guarantee: Found a better price elsewhere? We'll match it.
- Short stays available: Perfect if you're on a language course or exchange program
- Flexible start dates: Move in when it suits you
