Had a uni offer? This little known deadline could mean you miss out on your dream uni choice

Students across Britain are being warned they could lose their university place next month without even realising, according to student recruitment and admissions experts at UA92.

The higher education institution says a little-known UCAS deadline on 6th May could see offers automatically declined for anyone who fails to respond in time.

Matt Williams, student recruitment and widening participation manager at UA92, said the system catches out applicants every year.

He said: “A lot of students think they can wait until results day to make a decision, but if you miss the deadline, UCAS will automatically decline any offers you haven’t responded to on your behalf. That can mean losing every option without taking any action at all, which may come as a shock to many students and their parents.”

Students holding offers but yet to make a final choice must select a firm choice before the cut-off, or every offer will be declined.

Matt added: “Your firm choice is your first choice and your insurance should act as a back-up. It’s worth thinking carefully about your options now so you feel confident going into results day. It’s also important to understand exactly what your offer involves. A conditional offer simply means your place is subject to you meeting the grade and any other requirements, so checking the details now can help avoid surprises later.”

He added that students who are unsure about their options should start exploring their choices now, rather than leaving decisions to the last minute.

“We want students to feel informed and in control. The deadline is there to help you make a decision, not to catch you out, but it’s important to act before it passes. There’s still time to ask questions, explore your options and make a confident choice.”

Matt also reassured students that missing the deadline does not mean the end of their higher education journey.

He said: “If you do miss the 6th May deadline or change your mind, there are still options available. UCAS gives you 14 days from the date your application is automatically declined to call them and ask for your reply to be swapped. Clearing and UCAS Extra give students another chance to find the right course. Up until 1st July, if you’ve used all your choices and don’t hold any offers, you can use UCAS Extra to apply for one course at a time. That means students can still access higher education in a way that works for them, whether that’s starting at a different time or choosing a more flexible route, there’s always a way forward.”

Find out more about how to apply at UA92, here.