If you want to be challenged and inspired to achieve the extraordinary then we’d love to hear from you. 

Applying through UCAS

If you’re applying to us through UCAS, use our handy guide below to help you. 

1. Deadlines

For the best chance of receiving an offer, you’ll need to apply by 18:00 (GMT) on 29 January 2025. If you’re applying for Oxford, Cambridge, or Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science, then the application deadline is 15 October.  Your school or college may have their own deadline for you to apply so they have enough time to write your reference, so you’ll need to bear this in mind. 

If you're planning to apply next year, the deadline you'll need to apply by for the best chance of receiving an offer will be 18:00 (GMT) on 14 January 2026.

2. Register 

Register with UCAS.  If you’re applying through school or college then you’ll need a buzzword, so make sure you know what this is.  If you’re not applying through a school or college then you won’t need a buzzword.  When you register you’ll be given a username, will need to create your own password, and will be given a UCAS personal ID.  Make sure you keep these safe as you will need them a lot. 

3. Start your application

You can usually start your application from September for entry to university the following year.  The online system lets you complete your application in stages – simply save as you go along and you can return to it later. 

The application is made up of different sections, including your personal details, qualifications, course choices, a personal statement and a reference. 

UCAS have some great guides to help you complete your application on their website  

You can choose up to five courses.  Use the institution code D86 for Durham. 

4. What happens next 

Once you’ve submitted your application to UCAS they will let you know they have received it and will send it to all of your university choices. Selection processes vary between universities and courses so don’t worry if you don’t hear from your choices straight away. When the universities you have applied to are ready to make their decisions, you’ll be able to see them on at UCAS.  

What if you change your mind?

Throughout your application, you may decide your interests are in another course, or perhaps your circumstances have changed and you'd like to change your year of entry. Read our guidance about changes to your application to tell you more about the changes which might be possible, plus when and how to request these.

Hints and Tips

1. It’s never too early to start thinking about the course you want to study.  Do your online research and take advantage of Open Days, Campus Tours (virtual options available) and talking to current students to find out as much as you can about your subject and the universities you’re interested in. You only have a maximum of 5 choices on your UCAS application, so it’s important you take advantage of all the resources available to choose the right courses and universities for you.  

2. Give yourself enough time to complete your application before the deadline – don’t leave it until the last minute! You need to give yourself the best chance of getting an offer, so plan in enough time so you don’t need to rush. 

3. Double check each section before you submit your application. It’s especially important that factual information is correct, especially the grades you achieved in your qualifications. 

4. If you’re using a school email address then don’t forget to change this to a personal one before you leave.  Most universities send you information by email and don’t want you to miss important messages they might send during the summer months. 

5. Don’t forget, UCAS have lots of helpful hints and tips, including a video guide. Or you could Ask one of our friendly advisers, who are always happy to help.