UCAS References: Don't Make it Difficult!

You’re in Charge… Kind Of!

I hope you're doing well! As you prepare your applications, I wanted to offer some advice on getting your reference sorted. While it’s a crucial part of the process, unlike your personal statement, you don’t have full control over your reference – and in many cases, you won’t even see it before it's submitted!

Here’s some tips to keep on top of it… as much as you can!

Here are some important steps to keep in mind:

1. If You’re Applying Through Your School: Make sure to fill in all sections online, pay the application fee, and ask your school for their UCAS buzzword to link your application to them. Your tutor or teacher will then be able to add your reference and submit it directly through UCAS.

2. If You’re Not in School: Reach out to your old school or an employer for a reference. Employers can also log into UCAS and submit the reference directly.

3. Who Can Provide a Reference: Remember, do not ask friends, relatives, or partners to write your reference—UCAS won’t accept these. A strong reference should come from a teacher, tutor, or employer who can speak about your academic suitability, relevant work experience, skills, predicted grades, and any exceptional circumstances that may have affected your performance.

4. Be Persistent, But Patient: Teachers and employers are busy people, so don’t hesitate to give them a nudge if you need to, but also be patient with them as they manage their time. This is why we say start all of this ✨ sooner rather than later!! ✨

Though managing your reference might feel stressful, handling it carefully will ensure it won’t hold you back in your application process.

Best of luck, and keep up the hard work!