What happens next?
Once you’ve submitted your application, we process it as quickly as possible. Here is guidance on what to expect.
Selection process
As soon as possible after we receive your application we will:
- acknowledge that we have received the application
- make our decision or take things to the next stage – which could involve an interview or the offer of a place.
If you have applied through UCAS they will also acknowledge receipt of your application and keep you posted on subsequent decisions we make.
Selection decisions
You will be told of our decision as soon as possible. There are five possibilities, which are:
- an unconditional place – this means you have a fixed offer to attend the programme you applied for at the start date you requested
- a conditional place – this means you have a place on the programme you applied for at the start date you requested, provided you achieve certain agreed exam grades (eg, agreed A Level grades/UCAS tariff points)
- invitation to interview – this is a standard part of the selection process on many programmes. Programme details normally advise you if you are likely to be called for interview (see More about UEL interviews)
- alternative programme – if we feel that you are unlikely to meet the required grades for your first-choice degree programme, we may offer you a place on an extended or foundation degree programme
- rejection – this means that unfortunately we are unable to offer you a place on the programme you applied for at the start date you requested.
More about UEL interviews
Some programme tutors interview all applicants, while others select candidates if they feel the application form did not provide enough information to make a decision.
You will be asked questions relevant to the programme, but this is also a chance for informal face-to-face discussions about your work experience and other interests.
The tutor is looking for evidence of real interest in your chosen subject, and they also want to be certain that you have the ability and enthusiasm to complete the programme successfully.
After your results
If you have a received a conditional place that depends on certain exam results, we wait to hear the results. If you have achieved the grades we asked for, we can upgrade your offer from a conditional to an unconditional (firm) offer and will notify you that you have a place.
If you have not received the required grades we may offer you a place on an alternative programme, such as an extended degree. If we do not feel that you would be unable to succeed at UEL we may withdraw our offer by issuing a rejection.
Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) & health checks
For some programmes, we undertake background checks to determine suitability to work within your chosen field. This includes work with young people and vulnerable members of the community. Find out more.
