University

You apply for university through UCAS.
UCAS is the national system for applying to university or college.
You fill in an online form, choose your courses, and send your application through UCAS.

Some universities ask you to take an IELTS English test, especially if you moved to the UK from another country.
IELTS checks speaking, reading, writing and listening.
You can take the test at The University of Sheffield or other places in the UK.
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You must book your test on the British Council website.

Some universities need you to have GCSE Maths and English or an equivalent qualification.

Functional Skills Level 2 is the same as a pass at GCSE level.

You can:

• Study for GCSEs at Sheffield College (usually takes one year)
  
  
• Take Functional Skills exams in-person or online through Learn for Life Enterprise
  
  
• Prepare with courses from Learn for Life Enterprise or FACES

If you are a refugee or asylum seeker, you can get special support when applying for university.

Helpful organisations include:

• UCAS: information about the application process
  
  
• STAR: lists university scholarships and funding for refugees and asylum seekers
  
  
• RefuAid: provides interest-free loans for education, work and housing

If you are an adult who has been out of education for two or more years, there is help available.
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The University of Sheffield offers The Discover Course to help you build confidence and return to learning.

Both The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University have open days.

Open days let you:

• Visit the campus
  
  
• Talk to teachers
  
  
• Learn about courses
  
  
• Decide if the university is right for you
  

Sheffield Hallam University has a scheme called Hallam Progress.
It supports people who may face difficulties going to university.
Hallam Progress can help you with your application and prepare you for university life.