UCAS

Introduction

If you are applying to read Law in the UK, you will have to submit your application through UCAS.

The good news is that it is actually a very effective system. You create an account (usually in coordination with your school), fill in your qualifications, include your personal statement, arrange for a reference, and pay the fee (£24 for multiple choice application – you can apply to up to 5 courses).

This guide does not seek to consider the mechanics of the UCAS application, since it is best to learn this from the official website. Instead, we will share with you some useful tips when it comes to applying through UCAS.

The sooner the better

If you can submit a quality application, you should do so as soon as possible. As law schools usually do not review all the applications in one batch, it is hypothesised that an earlier application enjoys ‘lower competition’ within a wider pool of available offers. Of course, your application is still judged purely on its merits and admissions tutors know exactly what they are looking for due to years of experience. However, it never hurts to be diligent.

Deadlines for Law

Universities have different UCAS deadlines. Oxbridge has the deadline very early on (15th October 2017). Most universities have the deadline later on. (15th January 2015). However, you must always double-check the information with each course provider because the deadlines may differ. Either way, you should submit your application with plenty of time ahead of the deadline.

LNAT

You can take the LNAT before or after you send your UCAS application, therefore this should not stop you from submitting your UCAS application. Note: LNAT has its own deadlines.

Be through and detailed

You must disclose every part of your educational history, every qualification you have undertaken, and grade achieved (including resits). If in doubt, consult your teacher or call the UCAS helpline.

Make use of your five choices

You should consider your application strategy. Do you ‘tick all the boxes’ for the top law schools? Maybe you should include some ‘backup’ choices? Are you willing to take a gap year, if need be?

Get a good reference

If possible, choose a referee that knows you well. Inform him of all your achievements and ask him to stress your academic credentials. Consider whether it may be suitable to ask your referee to make a short assessment of your motivation for Law.