That’s the message from the University of Bedfordshire’s Director of Admissions Bob Cozens.

“Our team is busy processing last minute applications and popular courses may have limited availability but there is no need to panic,” he says. “We are on hand if you need any help but get your application in so that we can give it equal consideration alongside everyone else who applies by the deadline.”

Here is Bob’s ABC guide to help you meet the UCAS deadline:

A – Ask questions. Do you want a campus or city university and do you want to be close to home or further away?  Campus tours are a great way to find out where you will be spending most of your time. They are generally available during January and February even after the deadline. It might even be worth contacting the institution directly for a private tour. Are the halls of residence close by or a bus journey away? What are the entry requirements for your course? Are you likely to meet them or are you overestimating your grades? What are graduates doing after they leave?

B – Be personal. Your personal statement is about you and is an opportunity to ensure you stand out from the crowd so give yourself enough time to do a good job. What are you studying at the moment and how does it relate to what you want to study at university? Your application shouldn’t just be about your academic ability. Mention your interests and any work experience you have done.  Have you volunteered? Make sure you include all these things and write in plain English.

C – Check and check again.  Admissions tutors are dealing with thousands of applications so first impressions count. Check for spelling and grammar and make sure you read through your application several times so that it makes sense. If you can, get someone else to read your personal statement.  An extra pair of eyes will pick up mistakes you may have missed. If you miss the deadline check with your chosen institution to see whether they take late applications.

Apply via UCAS online or call or email Bedfordshire’s Admissions Team for advice – call 0300 3300 073, email admission@beds.ac.uk or chat online at Uniofbeds live chat.