Frequently asked questions

FAQS

Find answers to common questions about supporting your child through university — from applying to student support and life at UEL.

Applying to university

How does my child apply to UEL?

Your child applies through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).

They will need to:

Choose their course
Submit a personal statement
Provide predicted or achieved grades

UEL will review their application and respond through UCAS.

Is the University of East London a good university?

The University of East London is a good choice for students who want career-focused degrees and practical experience. UEL works closely with employers, offers strong student support, and helps students build skills for jobs after graduation. It is especially suited to students who want to study in London and gain real-world experience while learning.

What makes UEL different from other universities in London?

UEL stands out from other London universities because of its careers-first approach, campus-based experience, and strong student support. Courses are designed together with employers, students benefit from a close-knit campus community, whether at Docklands or Stratford, and the university focuses on building practical skills alongside academic learning.

What should parents look for when choosing a university?

Focus on what matters most to your child:

Course content and structure
Teaching quality and methods
Student support services
Location and accommodation
Career outcomes

Check what your child will study, how they will be taught, and what support is available. Visiting open days can help you compare options and make a confident decision.

When should my child apply to university?

Most students apply between September and January.

Applying early gives your child more time to prepare and respond to offers.

What grades does my child need to get into UEL?

Entry requirements vary by course.

Each course page lists the qualifications and grades needed. Encourage your child to check their chosen course carefully.

Can parents help with the application?

Yes. You can support your child by helping them:

Research courses and universities
Review their personal statement
Keep track of deadlines

Applications must be completed and submitted by the student.

What happens after my child applies?

UEL will review the application and may make an offer.

Your child can then:

Accept a firm and insurance choice
Track their application through UCAS
Prepare for results day and next steps

Fees and funding

How much does university cost?

Tuition fees and living costs vary depending on the course and where your child lives.

You can find detailed information on fees and funding on our course pages.

In addition, students need to budget for living costs such as accommodation, food, and travel. Most students cover these costs through a mix of loans, part-time work, and financial support.

Do parents have to pay for their child’s university education?

Parents are not required to pay tuition fees upfront, as these are covered by student loans. However, maintenance loans are partly based on household income. This means higher-income families may be expected to contribute towards living costs, especially for students under 25.

How do student loans work for university in the UK?

Student loans in the UK usually include a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan. The tuition fee loan is paid directly to the university, while the maintenance loan helps with living costs. Students do not pay anything upfront and only start repaying once they earn above a certain income threshold.

What financial support is available?

Students may be eligible for financial support, including:

Student loans for tuition fees and living costs
Scholarships, bursaries and grants

Check available funding options to understand what your child can apply for.

UEL offers financial advice and access to additional funding support to help students manage their finances.

How can my child manage living costs while studying?

Students can manage living costs through maintenance loans, budgeting, and part-time work. UEL also offers opportunities for paid work during studies and provides financial advice through its Student Money Advice and Rights Team.

Planning ahead and understanding available funding can help reduce financial pressure. Read our cost of living blog.

Accommodation and student life

Where will my child live?

Students can choose to live in UEL accommodation or privately rented housing.

UEL accommodation is close to campus and designed for student living.

Is student accommodation safe?

UEL provides a safe and supportive environment for students. Our Docklands and Stratford campuses have security measures in place, student accommodation is managed and secure.

Support services are available to help students with wellbeing or personal concerns. This helps students feel safe while studying and living in London.

Can I visit the university with my child?

Yes. Parents and carers are welcome at open days and campus tours.

These visits help you explore the campus and ask questions.

Support and wellbeing

What support is available if my child needs help?

UEL offers a range of support services, including:

Academic support and study skills
Mental health and wellbeing services
Disability and dyslexia support

Encourage your child to access support early if needed.

What happens if my child struggles during their course?

UEL supports students with academic help, mental health services, financial guidance, and specialist support if needed.

Students can access tutoring, wellbeing services, and advice throughout their studies, helping them manage challenges and succeed at university.

Can parents contact the university about their child?

Yes, but we will usually need your child’s permission to share information.

This helps protect their privacy while keeping you informed.

Staying involved as a parent

How can I stay involved while my child is at university?

You can support your child by staying in touch and encouraging them to use university services.

Universities support student independence, but guidance from parents remains important.

Career progression

When does careers support start at UEL?

From the first year. Students can access Career Zone, coaching, workshops, and employer events throughout their degree.

What is Career Zone?

Career Zone is UEL’s online careers platform where students find internships, placements, part-time work, mentoring, and book 1:1 career coaching.

Will my child get real work experience?

Yes. UEL supports students to take internships and placements, including funded opportunities with UEL and employer partners.

How does UEL help students get graduate jobs?

Students get coaching for CVs, applications and interviews, plus careers fairs and employer networking. This sits within UEL’s Careers Guarantee, which supports students through study and into work.

What career outcomes can UEL graduates expect?

UEL prepares students for employment through placements, internships, and career support from day one. Students develop practical skills and experience alongside their degree, helping them move into a wide range of careers after graduation. We focus on building confidence, communication, and job-ready skills.