Unconditional and Conditional Offers

Once you have completed your UCAS application form you will be shortlisted for interviews. The university or college will then send you a letter informing you if you have been successful. An unsuccessful application means that the university or college have decided not to offer you a place. A withdrawn application also means that the university or college has withdrawn the application, which is usually down to a lack of response from the student. However, if you are successful you will receive an official letter stating an ‘unconditional’ or ‘conditional’ offer.

Conditional offers
A conditional offer means that they will offer you a place if you meet certain conditions, which are usually based on your exams. You will usually be asked to achieve specific Tariff points (www.ucas.com/students/ucas_tariff ) in named subjects (for example B in English, C in Sociology). Even if you have deferred your entry for 2010, all student must meet their conditional offers by 2nd September 2009.

Unconditional offers
An unconditional offer means that you have met all the entry requirements and the university or college is happy to accept you. However, you may be asked to prove that you meet certain requirements such as financial or medical. The university or college will also ask to see proof of your qualifications so make sure you keep your certificates in a safe place.

An unconditional offer is the best possible result from a university or college application. However, most students will receive a conditional offer to ensure that they meet the university or college standards.

For more advice on your application and offers contact UCAS at: www.ucas.ac.uk