UCAS has announced important dates for students planning to apply to UK universities for the 2027 academic year. Aspiring applicants can now start preparing their applications as registration opened on May 12, 2026. This article outlines the crucial timeline and key actions needed for a successful application process.
Key UCAS Dates for 2027 Entry
- April 28, 2026: UCAS search tool shows 2027 entry courses.
- May 12, 2026: UCAS Undergraduate applications open for registration.
- July 7, 2026: UCAS Conservatoires applications open for 2027 entry.
- September 1, 2026: Submission of completed UCAS Undergraduate applications begins.
- October 1, 2026, 6 PM (UK time): Deadline for conservatoire music courses.
- October 15, 2026, 6 PM (UK time): Deadline for applications to Oxford, Cambridge, and certain medical courses.
- January 13, 2027, 6 PM (UK time): Deadline for most undergraduate courses.
- February 25, 2027: UCAS Extra opens for students needing to apply for additional university options.
- June 30, 2027, 6 PM (UK time): Final date for applications with choices.
- July 4, 2027: Deadline for adding choices through UCAS Extra.
- July 5, 2027: Opening of Clearing.
- October 18, 2027: Final date to add a Clearing choice.
Preparing Applications
From May 2026, students can utilize the UCAS Hub to prepare their applications. It is an essential time for them to:
- Create a UCAS account.
- Research courses and universities.
- Draft personal statements.
- Organize references.
- Prepare for admissions tests and interviews.
Students intending to enroll in September 2026 should note that they are already part of the current admissions cycle. Consequently, it is vital to stay informed about deadlines related to their applications.
Important Considerations for Specific Courses
Students aiming for competitive courses, such as those at the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge, should pay close attention to the October 15 deadline. Many of these programs require:
- Admissions tests.
- Interviews.
- Additional written work.
- Evidence of relevant work experience.
To increase their chances of success, applicants are urged to commence preparations early.
University Open Days
Throughout the summer and autumn of 2026, numerous UK universities will hold open days. These events typically offer:
- Campus tours.
- Accommodation visits.
- Subject talks.
- Financial guidance.
- Opportunities to interact with current students and admissions staff.
Some confirmed open day dates include:
| University | Date(s) |
|---|---|
| University of Oxford | July 1-2, September 18, 2026 |
| University of Cambridge | July 9-10, September 11, 2026 |
| University College London | June 26-27, 2026 |
| Imperial College London | June 24-25, 2026 |
| University of Manchester | June 27, July 4 (in-person), and several virtual dates in July and November 2026 |
Students should regularly check individual university websites for additional open day announcements.
Understanding UCAS Extra and Clearing
For those who do not secure university offers after selecting five choices, UCAS Extra will open from February to July 2027. This option allows students another chance to gain a place at a university. Subsequently, Clearing will open in July 2027, providing opportunities for students to apply for remaining vacancies.
Clearing can be a valuable pathway for those who changed their minds or had unexpected exam results and should not be viewed as a negative option.
