Choosing the right course and university is a pivotal moment in a young person's life. It's good to start thinking about university options early, ideally around the same time as selecting A-level subjects or equivalent qualifications. This foresight allows you to align your subject choices with potential university courses, ensuring you meet the entry requirements for your desired course.

All applications for full-time undergraduate degrees are submitted through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). The UCAS Search tool that lists courses across the UK starting the following year will become available at the beginning of May each year.

Students typically begin preparing for university applications in the Spring before their final school year, researching courses and participating in work placements to gain insight into potential careers. While students can start their applications at this stage, submission does not open until the following September. 

From March to July, UCAS will host exhibitions across the UK offering students the chance to engage directly with university representatives, explore different institutions, and gather information on various courses. 

UCAS applications officially open in September, allowing students to submit their completed applications. All sections must be completed in full, with references added and the application fee paid. While schools and colleges often assist with this process, students can also apply independently.

September is also when most universities, including Queen's, hold their Open Days, giving students a chance to visit and explore their chosen institutions before submitting an application. 

When are the UCAS deadlines?

It's important to note that Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine/Science courses have early deadlines. If you're applying to Medicine or Dentistry courses at Queen's, your application will need to be submitted before the October deadline to be considered.

Students not applying for these courses will have until the end of January to finalise and submit their UCAS applications.

If you're an international student wishing to apply only to Queen's, you can apply directly to the university. 

How to Apply for an Undergraduate Degree at Queen's University Belfast

UCAS applications close for all courses at the end of January. Often, applications can be sent after this, but universities cannot guarantee they'll give it equal consideration.

UCAS Extra opens in early February, a service offered by UCAS whereby if you've used all five choices on your application, and you're not holding any offers, you could still find a place using UCAS Extra. This gives students another opportunity to gain a place at university for the coming September.

Over the coming months, you may start to receive offers from your universities and the deadline for universities to make offers is in May. Reply dates for your offers are based on when you get your last decision from your chosen university or colleges. Check your application for your personal deadline.

If you're an international student, you will be able to apply for your CAS and Visa once you have accepted an unconditional offer. 

When can I apply for university accommodation?

In January, our accommodation portfolio and prices will be published on our website, allowing you to find out more about what accommodation is available. Our accommodation applications will then open in February. 

If you have received an offer to study at Queen's and want university accommodation, make sure to apply before the end of June. During June, we also hold an Open Day where you can visit the campus, meet current students and chat with faculty. 

Clearing will open in early July, a service provided by UCAS where universities across the UK, including Queen's, can offer remaining spots on courses. You can apply through UCAS or directly to the university, but please keep in mind that spaces may be limited. 

When does onboarding start for new students?

Results day for students across the UK and Ireland happens in mid-August. Once results have been released for students, universities will confirm places and the onboarding process will start for all students starting their university journey here at Queen's University Belfast. Students who have applied to Queen's accommodation will also be notified of their allocation at this stage. 

The first week of university is typically in the middle of September. But before the first week of classes officially commences, the university will host a Welcome Week and other events for students arriving on campus. We also organise an Airport Welcome with our Student Ambassadors every September for international students.

Once you have registered, your fees will need to be paid. If you have applied for Student Finance, your fees will be paid directly from Student Finance to the university. If you are self-funding your studies, more information on payments can be found here.

Settling in at university

By October you will be settling into your first few weeks of university life, your new home and potentially a new city.

During your time at Queen's, there are plenty of ways to make new friends, whether that's through one of our clubs and societies, joining Facebook or Instagram groups for Queen's Students, on your course or in your student accommodation. We also have a wealth of support services available in One Elmwood to help you adjust to university life.

All that's left to do now, is enjoy your time at Queen's University Belfast!