Applying for a course

Applying for university is an exciting time but can also be a daunting process. With important deadlines and various things to consider, we're here to help break it down for you.

Use our blogs and tools to guide you through the process, this page contains information on applying as an undergraduate, postgraduate or international student. 

Undergraduate

Want to know how to apply for an undergraduate course? Explore your course options, read our UCAS guides and draft your personal statement.

September

UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) opens for full-time undergraduate applications for the following September.

September - December

Many universities hold open days during this time. They provide the ideal opportunity for you and your young person to take a look around the universities that they are interested in attending.

Find out more about our Undergraduate Open Days

January

31 January 2024: the deadline given by UCAS for the majority of undergraduate applications to be submitted. Certain courses may have an earlier or later deadline, such as applications to the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge and most dentistry, medicine or veterinary science courses. Schools and colleges will also have an internal deadline for references that need to be completed by a teacher.

February

  • 28 February 2024: UCAS Extra opens. If you have used all five university choices on UCAS and are not holding any offers, you can add more choices through this service

May

  • 16 May 2024: the deadline for all universities to respond to applications that they received by the January deadline

June

  • 6 June 2024: the deadline for students to respond to offers from universities if they received their offer by the May deadline
  • 30 June 2024: the UCAS main cycle closes for new applications. After this date, all applications must be made through Clearing

July

  • 4 July 2024: the last date to apply for a course in UCAS Extra
  • 5 July 2024: Clearing opens. This is an alternative way to apply to university. Students who don't already hold an offer can check which universities have places available. The main activity takes place around results day in August
  • 17 July 2024: the deadline for all universities to respond to applications that they received between 21 January and 30 June
  • 24 July 2024: the deadline for students to respond to offers received from universities by 17 July

August

  • 6 August 2024: SQA results are released
  • 15 August 2024: BTEC and A-level results are released

Students who don't meet the entry requirements for their firm or insurance choice can go into Clearing. They will need to contact universities directly to check if places are available. Clearing closes towards the middle of September, with most university courses starting around this time.

International students

Key dates throughout the year are still relevant to international students. Students will also need to consider visas and CAS as part of their application process and plan accordingly.

How to apply for an undergraduate course

Here’s all you need to know about applying for a full-time or part-time undergraduate course at the University of Derby if you are from the UK, have EU settled status or live overseas.

Staff helping student at an Open Day
How to apply directly

Are you a mature student? Do you already have your grades? Interested in a part-time course? You can apply for your course directly.

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Supporting your UCAS application

If you're interested in finding out more about how to apply for university, we're here to help. We have advice and tips to help guide you as you complete your university application.

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University Personal Statement writer

We can help you create your UCAS personal statement for your university application. Use our personal statement writer with useful guides and tips to draft what you want to write.

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How to apply through UCAS Clearing

If you have received an offer from us through Clearing, you now need to make your formal application to us via UCAS.

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Subjects

Looking for an undergraduate course at the University of Derby? Find out which course to study by taking a look through our undergraduate subject areas from Accounting to Fashion and Textiles to Journ...

Undergraduate course search

Postgraduate

Reach new academic heights and take on an exciting postgraduate degree.

How to apply for a postgraduate course

Find out how to apply directly to the University of Derby for a taught or research-based postgraduate course.

The Roaches in Derbyshire
Applying for a MPhil/PhD

Find out how to apply for a MPhil/PhD and what happens after you apply.

Postgraduate course search

Looking to study a postgraduate course at the University of Derby? Find out which course to study by taking a look through our postgraduate subject areas from Accounting to Fashion and Textiles t...

Postgraduate course search

International

Are you an international student interested in applying? Find information tailored to your specific region and explore our comprehensive guides for insights on applying for scholarships, bursaries, and understanding fees.

International students
Scholarships, bursaries and discounts

Here you can find details of the scholarships, bursaries and discounts available to international students which can be used together to reduce your tuition fees.

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Guidance for international applicants and current students

Use our guide for international students to find out more about accommodation, visa and immigration support, travelling to the UK, finances and student life.

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Fees and Finance

What will your course cost? And how do you plan to fund your studies? Explore your options, whether you're a UK or international student looking for an undergraduate or postgraduate course.

Find out more about fees and financeFind out more about fees and finance