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Future Students FAQs

Studying with us

How will I be taught and assessed?

Most courses at University Centre Somerset focus on work experience and practical assessment, however, teaching and assessment varies across the board. To learn more about how you will be taught and assessed, go to your course page or read more about learning and teaching.

Will I be able to access library study spaces?

Learning Resources Centres are available at all University Centre Somerset campuses. Areas are set aside for quiet study or group work, with access to networked computers, printing, scanning, and photocopying.

Resources include books, journals & magazines, film and foreign language DVDs, music and audio books. National and local newspapers are also provided. There are further supplemented by our online resources.

When does term start?

Our Autumn Term begins in September. Go to our term dates page for more.

What is the deadline for enrolment?

You will need to have applied and accepted an offer to your course before starting. Enrolment will take place online before term starts. You must have enrolled before beginning your studies.

Does UCS offer part-time and/or distance learning courses?

At University Centre Somerset, we offer a range of part-time options and varied pathways, we can help you navigate a way through your degree programme, while creating space for home life, ongoing employment or other commitments. Have a look at our courses, or contact us, for more information.

Accommodation, Fees, and Finance

Where can I find more information on UCS Accommodation?

University Centre Somerset offers accommodation in Taunton and in Cannington. For students who wish to live in shared accommodation in one of our local towns or villages, or rent a room in a private house, our accommodation office collates a list of suitable properties. Find out more on our accommodation page.

Where can I find more information on student fees and finance?

Student fees vary from course to course, so it's always best to check your individual course’s online page for up-to-date fee information. Potential and current students can also seek support and advice around fees, loans, bursaries, and grants from the Student Support Team. Find out more on our fees and funding page.

Your Application

How do I apply for an undergraduate course?

When applying for a full-time undergraduate degree, you will need to apply for your place with us through UCAS.

Applications to Level 4 Certificates, Level 5 Diplomas, Apprenticeships, or part-time degree programmes will need to be made on the University Centre Somerset website instead.

Find out more about how to apply.

Is there an upper age limits for applicants?

There is no limit to how old you can be to study higher education. We welcome students of any and all ages, as long as you have the desired entry requirements.

Will I be called to interview?

For many of our courses, applicants will be invited to interview. During interview, you will need to demonstrate relevant skills and enthusiasm so that we can confirm your suitability to study on your chosen course. For creative arts courses, you will be expected to bring a portfolio displaying pieces of your original work along with evidence of drawing ability and creativity. Please be prepared to talk about these at your interview.

Do I have to have passed GCSE maths and English to study at UCS? 

We generally ask for four GCSEs, or equivalent, at Grade 4/C or above, to include English Language and maths. For many courses, we accept any combination of old and new GCSE grades and recognised equivalent subjects such as Functional Skills. However, please check that this is the case with your course before applying by emailing info@somerset.ac.uk

Does UCS accept alternative qualifications to A Levels for undergraduate degree courses?

Yes. Our entry requirements tend to be based on UCAS tariff points and we accept alternative Level 3 qualifications. Please see entry requirements on your individual course page for more.

What if my grades don't meet your entry requirements, or I haven't studied the subjects you ask for?

If the qualifications you hold don't meet our entry requirements, please do reach out to us and ask whether you might still be eligible to apply. We have a dedicated Admissions Team who will do what they can to help you. Finding a course through Clearing is another way of getting a place if you didn't achieve your expected grades.

Can I apply directly for entry into the second year based on my existing qualifications?

We do consider accredited prior learning. It may be that your application has to go through a process with one of our university partners for this to be approved. If you have any questions about this, please do ask by emailing info@somerset.ac.uk.

Can I defer my place?

For most courses, you will be able to defer your place. Our university partner for the nursing degree programmes, however, does not offer deferred applications. If you are concerned about deferring an application, don't hesistate to reach out. 

Other

My question isn’t listed on this page, how can I contact you?

If you have any questions that have not been answered here or on our website, please go to our contact page.