UCAS Timeline
July – October 2026: UCAT.
The UCAT is an admissions test that many universities require. You can sit the exam anytime between July and September 2026. Check out the UCAT section of our blog for more information.
- Registration: May – September 2026
- Testing begins: July 2026
- Bursary application deadline: September 2026
- Last test date: September 2026.
- UCAS application deadline: 15 October 2026
September 2026: Submitting UCAS Application
From September you can submit and send your UCAS application, where it will be sent to the universities you have applied to. Your application includes your school grades and predicted grades, your employment history (usually only required if you are a graduate of gap year applicant), as well as your personal statement, course choices and your reference.
15th October 2026: Deadline for Medical Applications
This is a very important deadline, all medical school applications via UCAS have to be submitted before this day. It is also the deadline for Dental, Veterinary Medicine and Oxbridge applications.
November 2026 – March 2027: Invites to Interview.
The timings of interviews differ between medical schools. Some universities like to get all their interviews done before the new year, while others drag them out starting in December with interview dates going on till mid March. So don’t worry if you don’t get an interview straight away, there is still plenty of time! Check out our university by university guides, which give you specific information on the interview dates of different universities. Your invites will come through individual university portals and also through UCAS.
May 2026: Deadline for Responding to Offers
Deadline for you to reply to universities if you received offers before 31st March
May 2026: Deadline for Universities to Give Offers
Deadline for universities to reply to you with either an offer or rejection.
August 2026: A-Level Results Day
On results day, if things go well then your place in medical school will be confirmed! If you miss your grades, call up universities as they may still accept you. If you did not get any offers, you should still call up universities as Medicine offers can be found in clearing!
Frequently Asked Question
→What is UCAS?
UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is the central organisation responsible for managing applications to undergraduate courses in the UK. It provides a central application portal for students to apply to universities and colleges in the UK.
→When should I start thinking about UCAS applications?
It is recommended that students start thinking about UCAS applications in their penultimate year of secondary school. This allows for sufficient time to research universities and courses, prepare for admission tests (if required), and complete the application process.
→When is the UCAS application deadline?
The UCAS application deadline varies depending on the course and university, but the main deadline for most courses is 15 January. Some courses, such as medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science, have earlier deadlines, usually in October.
→What are the steps in the UCAS application process?
The UCAS application process involves several steps, including researching universities and courses, registering on the UCAS website, completing the online application form, submitting a personal statement, obtaining references, and paying the application fee.
→Can I apply to more than one course through UCAS?
Yes, you can apply to up to five courses through UCAS, either at the same university or at different universities. It is important to ensure that the courses you choose are suitable for your interests and qualifications.
→How can I prepare for UCAS applications?
To prepare for UCAS applications, you can research universities and courses, attend university open days, prepare for admission tests (if required), and start drafting your personal statement. It is also important to ensure that you meet the entry requirements for the courses you are interested in.
→What support is available for UCAS applicants?
There are various sources of support available for UCAS applicants, including school or college counselors, UCAS advisors, and online resources such as the UCAS website and social media channels. It is also important to seek advice and support from family and friends.
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