All things UCAS Extra

Waiting for your university offers to arrive in your inbox can feel daunting. University applications are competitive, and it's not uncommon for students to receive no offers from the universities they've applied to. If you find yourself in this position, don't be disheartened. There are still options available to you. One of those? UCAS Extra!

What is UCAS Extra?

UCAS Extra is an opportunity to apply to an extra university. Before the UCAS deadline in January, you can apply for up to five universities. If you've used all five of your choices and don't receive any offers, you can add a sixth with UCAS Extra.

Who can use UCAS Extra?

The process is completely free and available to you if you have used all five choices and haven't received any offers. You can also use UCAS Extra if you decide to decline all of the offers you received.

When is UCAS Extra open?

UCAS Extra opens on the 28th of February 2025. The deadline for UCAS Extra is the 4th of July 2025, ahead of A-Level Results Day and Clearing on the 15th of August 2025.

How many choices can you make with UCAS Extra?

While you can only add one extra choice at a time, if you don't secure another offer, you can apply for a further choice. This process can continue up until the deadline on the 4th of July.

How does UCAS Extra work?

If you're eligible for UCAS Extra, this will show on your UCAS account. From there, you can select that sixth option. Once chosen, you'll be unable to change this for 21 days as the university makes its decision and offers you either a conditional or unconditional offer. There are a few different outcomes that you can expect:

Securing an offer with UCAS Extra

Great! You've got your offer! You'll need to go into your UCAS account and accept this offer before the deadline set in your account. If you accept, you won't be able to apply to any other universities and this will become your firm choice ahead of Results Day.

Not receiving an offer

If you don't receive an offer, you can choose another course and send submit your application to the university. They then have another 21 days to make an offer.

I still haven't received any offers

Don't feel disheartened, this has happened to many students before you. And this is why Clearing exists! Clearing opens on the 5th of July and you can apply to other universities and courses with places still available. Our guide to Clearing will help you prepare ahead of Results Day and has all the information you need!

Can I change my UCAS Extra choice?

If 21 days have passed since you submitted your extra choice, you can log in to your UCAS Hub to change your application. Unfortunately, if the 21 days haven't passed, you can't apply for another choice just yet.