Applying to UEL
Applying to UEL
Applying to the University of East London is easy, and to make things even easier we'll give you all the support you need - from advice about fees and funding to guidance from tutors on specific course requirements. Whether you're about to leave school, or you're thinking about a career change, we'll make your journey as smooth as possible.
Applying through UCAS
What is UCAS?
Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is the organisation responsible for processing applications to UK universities for all undergraduate courses.
Applying for a full-time course
If you want to start a full-time course at UEL in September, you should apply online via the 'Apply' button on the UCAS website. UCAS will accept applications from 1 September in the year before you want to start your course.
When applying through UCAS, you'll need the unique UCAS institution code (ELOND) and code for UEL (E28), as well as the UCAS code for the course you want to study. You'll find this code on the relevant course page.
You'll also need to pay a fee to UCAS to submit your application. This can be done online or via your school or college if they have an arrangement with UCAS.
If you encounter any problems with completing your UCAS application, please contact UCAS on +44 (0)871 468 0468. If you're calling from outside the UK and are unable to use this number, ring +44 (0)870 112 2211.
If you have any questions regarding potential applicants, new and current applications (UK only), feel free to talk to a member of our Applicant Engagement team:
Tel. +44 (0) 20 8223 3333 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm)
Live chat: Click the live chat icon
I'm in school/college in the UK
Entry to our courses is generally based on your performance in Level 3 qualifications such as A levels, BTECs and CACHE diplomas. In most cases, you'll need to have achieved a minimum number of UCAS Tariff points by the time the course starts.
Most of our degree courses accept qualifications in subjects other than the one covered by the degree. However, there are a few courses which require specific A-level (or equivalent) subjects. Some courses may also request that you prepare a portfolio of your work, attend an interview or audition or undertake some other form of pre-entry assessment.
You'll also need to have at least a grade C in GCSE English and mathematics (or equivalent Level 2 qualification such as Key Skills Level 2 in Application of Number and Communication) and three other GCSEs at grades A-C.
If you don't meet the entry requirements for a BA or BSc, many of our courses have the option of a foundation year that will prepare you for a successful transition to the bachelor's degree. If you take this option, you'll be studying for four years in total rather than three. You can use our course search to find a list of courses that offer the option of degree with a Foundation year.
I'm from the UK but not in school/college
As an inclusive university, we're proud to welcome students from all backgrounds and all ages. Mature students (i.e. students over the age of 21) make up almost half of our undergraduate population.
We recognise that applicants who have been out of education for some time may not have the formal qualifications usually required for entry to a course.
Rest assured, we welcome applications from those who can demonstrate their enthusiasm and commitment to study and have relevant life or work experience that equips them to succeed on the course.
We'll assess this from the information provided in your application, particularly your personal statement, and may ask you to attend an interview or submit a piece of work to help us decide on your eligibility for the course.
If you would like to talk to an advisor about the opportunities available to you, including entry requirements and part-time options, feel free to contact us and find out more about being a mature learner entering education.
I'm applying from outside the UK
If you're from outside the UK, you can apply directly to UEL. Visit your course page and click the 'Apply Now' button then click on the 'International' option. You will be asked to complete an application form.
Applicants from outside the UK and those students for whom English is not their first language must have a good standard of English, as evidenced by internationally recognised qualifications such as IELTS. These requirements vary by course so you'll need to check the course pages for further information.
We accept a wide range of qualifications from across the world - from individual countries as well as internationally recognised qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate. When applying, don't try to convert your qualifications to a UK equivalent. Simply give us the full award title, subject and grades/scores as they appear on your certificate(s).
If your qualification is from an EU country, please contact our Applicant Engagement team by phone on +44 (0)20 8223 3333, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm or Live chat: (Click the live chat icon in the bottom left of the screen) to find out whether it meets the requirements of UEL).
Our country pages contain information about acceptable qualifications from different countries. Our course pages list entry requirements specific to individual courses.
For more information about applying as an international applicant, visit our International pages, and find out more about international deadlines.
Applying without UCAS
If you want to study at the University of East London you don't need to go through UCAS to secure a place. We accept direct applications and have made the process very simple and easy. Your application will be quick and very simple.
Several courses can only be applied to via UCAS. Further details are available on each course page.
Call us on +44 (0) 20 8223 3333 to start your application or read all about applying to university without UCAS.
Applying for a part-time course
For part-time degrees, you can apply directly to us. Click on the 'Apply direct' button on our course pages and you will be directed to our application pages.
How we assess applications
As an inclusive university, we're proud to welcome students of all backgrounds and all ages. We’re proud to welcome students who are the first generation in their family to attend university, whilst mature students (over the age of 21) make up almost half of our undergraduate population.
UEL will look at your application as a whole, considering non-academic factors when making decisions and offering a place. For example, courses with assessment requirements such as a portfolio or interview will provide an opportunity (and therefore give weighting to) your talent or performance.
Additionally, if you have life or work experience that is relevant to your course, and can demonstrate your commitment to study, our Admissions team will consider this also.
More information
Funding calculator
Find out how much financial support you could get for your studies and living costs by answering a few quick questions.
Use our funding calculatorUndergraduate application FAQs
How do I apply for an undergraduate course at UEL?
Most full-time undergraduate courses are applied for through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Some courses also accept direct applications through UEL. Your course page will confirm which application route to use.
Can I apply if I don’t meet the standard entry requirements?
Yes. UEL considers a wide range of qualifications and experience. You may still be considered through:
- Contextual offers
- Foundation year routes
- Relevant professional or life experience
When should I apply?
You can apply as soon as UCAS or UEL applications open. Applying early is recommended, especially for high-demand courses. Some courses may continue to accept applications after the UCAS deadline if places are still available.
What support is available during the application process?
UEL provides guidance at every stage, including:
- Choosing the right course
- Understanding entry requirements
- Completing your application
- Preparing for interviews or portfolios, where required
What happens after I apply?
Once you submit your application, UEL will review it and contact you with the outcome.
If you receive an offer, you’ll be guided through:
- Accepting your place
- Applying for funding
- Preparing to start your course
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