Pre-degree applications

Before you choose a specialist degree level course you may want or need to undertake a pre-degree course.

How to apply

All applications should be made direct to UCA, using the University's online application form. Each pre-degree course has it's own specific application form and you can find links to these on the apply now page.

When to apply - home/EU students

Aged under 19 on 31 August prior to the start of your course: Our pre-degree courses are very popular. We receive the majority of applications between December and March so we recommend that you submit your application by the end of March at the latest. When places are filled we will close applications to these courses for this group of students.

Aged 19 or over on 31 August prior to the start of your course: Our pre-degree courses are very popular. In common with other providers, UCA receives government funding for a limited number of pre-degree places for UK and EU students aged 19 and over. We receive the majority of applications between December and March so we recommend that you submit your application by the end of March at the latest. When places are filled we will close applications to these courses for this group of students.

When to apply - international students

We accept applications throughout the year. There is no set deadline, though we encourage you to apply by 31 May to allow enough time to allocate you accommodation if required and you must ensure you have enough time to arrange your visa before you enrol onto a course.

What happens next

When we receive your application we send you an email which includes your login details for the applicant portal. This is where you are able to monitor the progress of your application at the University.

You can expect to receive timely updates on the applicant portal in respect to your application with admissions decisions being made as quickly as possible.

Entry requirements

All applications to courses are assessed against the course entry requirements and criteria. For most courses, we require a portfolio of visual work to provide evidence of practical and visual ability appropriate to the course you are applying for. Applicants are considered on a case by case basis and by their ability and readiness for university study.

For course-specific entry requirements, please refer to the relevant course page.

For general portfolio advice, please visit our portfolio advice page.

Your interview

The majority of our course provision require portfolio submission, generally submitted at interview. However, not all courses interview applicants due to the volume of applications received. Sometimes admissions staff decide to offer a place by looking at your application form, or after setting you some extra work, which you send to us. Where interviews are conducted, these are relaxed and informal occasions when you can ask us about the University and your chosen course.

If granted an interview, this will form part of the selection process in addition to your portfolio for deciding whether or not we can offer you a place. Interviews normally take place between December-June and we try to give you at least 10 days notice.

Who to contact with queries

If you have any queries regarding the admissions process or an application that you have made, please contact the relevant admissions team:

Home/EU admissions:
T: +44 (0) 1252 892718
E: feadmissions@ucreative.ac.uk

International admissions:
T:   + 44 (0) 1252 892785
E:  internationaladmissions@ucreative.ac.uk