Help with your application

We are committed to selecting the best students who will benefit most from the educational experience that the University is proud to offer. We therefore base our entry requirements on high levels of previous educational achievement and require applicants to demonstrate a strong commitment to the relevant degree programme.

The minimum entry requirements shown next to each programme represents the minimum offer that the University is likely to make to applicants. While for many programmes the minimum entry requirement provides a good guide to the level of offer, for the most popular programmes the offer level is likely to be higher than the minimum entry requirement. This is dependent on the total number and standard of applications received through the UCAS cycle in relation to the number of places available.

We recognise that not all applicants will have had the same educational opportunities, therefore, we consider each application individually and on its own merits. As well as expecting applicants to achieve at least the minimum academic entry requirements, admissions tutors will carefully consider the following criteria when making offers:

UCAS personal statement

Applicants are encouraged to provide a carefully prepared statement describing their background information, interests and reasons for choosing their programme. Please include any relevant work experience, voluntary work and reasons behind the choice of programme.

Hints and tips for writing your personal statement

The personal statement is your opportunity to create a positive impression and demonstrate your motivation, commitment and suitability for the programme you are applying for.

About 60% of the statement should focus on the programme itself and why you want to study it. State clearly why you are interested in this subject and show that you understand what the programme entails. Include something about your background interest in the subject (i.e. what you have studied so far that created your interest in this programme/subject area). Mention any aspects of the programme that particularly appeal to you. You could also link this to your future career aspirations.

The remaining 40% or so of content should include details of relevant skills and abilities you have developed from interests outside of academic school work, including part-time employment and/or unpaid work experience, sporting or music activities interests, volunteering activities and hobbies. Remember to incorporate details of the transferable skills you will have gained from these activities, such as communication, organisational and team working skills. You may also wish to demonstrate evidence of responsibility and initiative both in and out of school (for example, school prefect, Duke of Edinburgh Award).

Finally, remember to check and double-check the finished statement for simple spelling and grammar errors.

Reference

The reference submitted by your referee will be used as important supplementary information in your application. This should be submitted by a teacher, tutor or other professional who is able to comment on your application and ability to complete your intended programme of study.

Background circumstances

We are committed to widening access to students from backgrounds with comparatively low participation in higher education. This can take the form of low progression rate from the secondary school you have attended, if your parents or guardians have not previously attended University or other similar considerations. We also recognise that some applicants will have experienced disruption to their formal studies through factors such as ill health, family circumstances or dealing with a disability.

Recognised access programmes

We work with a number of partners in widening access.In particular we welcome applications from our local recognised partners such as LEAPS and SWAP East. For more information on who we work with have a look at our widening participation pages.