UCAS closed its ‘on-time’ application window on 29^th January, but prospective students can still apply to higher education institutions until 30^th June 2021 through the UCAS website as normal.

The UCAS application cycle runs until the end of June each year, with the January ‘on time’ deadline marking the date until which all universities must consider applications. Following the January deadline, it is down to the discretion of the individual institutions whether they continue to accept applicants or not.

Once the June deadline has passed, students will be required to apply to the University directly via clearing.

Bob Cozens, the University’s Director of Admissions, recommends that any students interested in applying to the University of Bedfordshire should do so sooner rather than later. About the June UCAS deadline, he said:

Students are still able to apply through UCAS until 30^th June, but I would recommend applying sooner rather than later to enable plenty of time to apply for student finance and get everything in place, to ensure you’re well prepared for your chosen course.

In previous cycles we have received about 30% of our total applications in the period following the January ‘on-time’ deadline, so rest assured it’s not too late to choose the University of Bedfordshire.

I’d also encourage prospective students to get a taste of the University by attending one of our upcoming online Open Days. The next one is taking place on 13^th February and will give viewers the opportunity to speak to academic staff and current students about courses and application advice. They will also get to experience virtual tours of our campuses including our new £40m STEM building.

There are so many reasons to join our thriving University. Achieving Silver in the Teaching Excellence Framework, a platinum ‘EcoCampus’ award last month and being ranked 8^th out of 150 universities in the sustainability ‘Green League’ are testament to our progression.

The University also offers a plethora of extra-curricular benefits to students such as the active and engaging Beds SU, Sports Scholarships opportunities, Get Active memberships, access to excellent Radio LaB and Library facilities and much more.

Courses at the University fall within four faculties: the Business School, the Faculty of Creative Arts, Technology and Science, the Faculty of Education and Sport and the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences. Every faculty at the University is continuing to accept applications and Bob Cozens has the following advice for prospective students who are still thinking about applying:

1. Do your research: Look carefully at the course you are interested in and what the entry requirements are. You should also consider what else is on offer to help support you with your studies at your chosen university. Following the pandemic, many universities may also offer home-learning options so it’s worth investigating the university’s virtual learning platforms and accessibility. At the University of Bedfordshire, mental health services and a Careers and Employability Service are just two of the many student support services on offer. The University also offers all full-time undergraduate students up to £1,500 in financial support to ensure finance is not a barrier to study. A student laptop loan scheme is also available to help those who may not be able to access a laptop or computer for study off campus. 
2. Make it personal: Your personal statement is your chance to ensure you stand out from the crowd, so give yourself enough time to do a good job. Don’t just focus on your academic achievements, but also mention your interests and any work experience you have done. 
3. Double check before submitting: First impressions count, so check your spelling and grammar and make sure it makes sense by reading through your application several times. Even better, ask someone else to read it through – an extra pair of eyes may pick up mistakes you have missed. 

For questions or assistance regarding your application, email study@beds.ac.uk or contact the University through the live chat service by visiting: https://www.beds.ac.uk/live-chat