Welcome to Your University Journey

Starting university is an exciting step towards your future. It’s a time to explore new subjects, meet diverse people, and gain independence. Whether you're passionate about science, arts, business, or anything in between, university offers a space to grow academically and personally.

To apply for undergraduate courses in the UK, you'll use UCAS – the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. Through UCAS, you can:

• Choose up to five courses at different universities.
• Write a personal statement to showcase your interests, achievements, and goals.
• Submit your academic references and predicted grades.
• Track your application and respond to offers.

The process usually begins in the autumn of the year before you plan to start university, with key deadlines in January (for most courses) and October (for Oxbridge and medicine-related courses).

Take your time to research courses, visit campuses if you can, and talk to teachers or advisors. This is your chance to shape your future—make it count!

Explore further:

Times Higher Education UK University Rankings 2025 – Offers a detailed ranking of UK universities based on teaching, research, international outlook, and more 

Study.eu – Top 110 Universities in the UK (2025/2026) – Provides a comprehensive list of the top 110 universities in the UK, including rankings from QS, THE, and ARWU

The Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025 – Features a league table ranking UK universities based on academic performance, student satisfaction, and graduate prospects.

Dudley Local Offer

Dudley Council provides a comprehensive Care Leavers Local Offer to support young people transitioning out of care. Here's a summary of what’s available and how to access it:

🔹 Key Support Services for Care Leavers in Dudley

• • Support Until Age 25: Care leavers are entitled to support up to their 25th birthday.
  • Young Person’s Advisor (YPA): Assigned from age 16 to help with planning and support through to adulthood.
  • Pathway Plan: A personalized plan outlining your goals and the support available to help you achieve them.
  • Financial Guidance: Including a financial guide and council tax exemption until age 25.
  • Accommodation Support: Help with housing options after age 18.
  • Education, Training & Employment: Advice and support for further education or entering the workforce.
  • Health & Wellbeing: Includes a health passport and support with physical and mental health.
  • Social Activities: Opportunities to engage in community and social events.
  • Weekly Drop-in Sessions: Held every Wednesday from 12–4 PM in Dudley town centre.

🔹 Get Involved

• • Care Leavers Forum: A platform for care leavers to share their views and shape services.

🔹 Access the Full Offer

• • You can explore the full details and download guides on the Dudley Care Leavers Local Offer 

Another useful link is the Care Leaver Covenant website. It has specialised information on numerous subjects which you may find useful.