How to Apply

UCAS Applications

Check the key facts on the course page to find out whether to apply via UCAS or the college application form.

Visit the UCAS website www.ucas.com and follow the on-screen instructions to register/log in. The first time you use the UCAS site you must register.

The menu boxes on the left-hand side of the screen are the various sections you must complete. If you select ‘View all details’, you will be able to view and/or print your application to see how much you have completed of your application form. Red areas are those not yet completed.

Sections of the UCAS application: • Personal details • Choices • Education • Employment • Personal statement • Reference

Once you have completed your application you will need to pay and send it.

What to think about for your personal statement

Your personal statement will take time to prepare, and you may need to write several drafts before you feel it is right. Do not rush it, and do not leave it until the last minute before you start writing. Give it some thought. Do not ever copy personal statements. UCAS check all statements for plagiarism. Your application could be disqualified if you copy other people’s work.

Areas to include in your personal statement include: • Why you are applying for the course[s] • Why the course interests you (include your understanding of the course[s] you’re applying to) • Why you think you’re suitable (skills and experience which will help you succeed) • Current or previous studies which relate to the course(s) you’re applying to, and how • Hobbies and/or interests that demonstrate your interest in the course(s) you’re applying to

Support we offer for those applying through UCAS

At the Hereford Campus, the Student HUB offers information, advice and guidance in relation to higher education. As well as group tutorial offers about considering higher education and personal statement workshops, students are invited to book one-to-one sessions in order to review UCAS applications and receive feedback. Before an application is submitted to UCAS, it is reviewed by a dedicated member of the team. For more information, please contact:

Student Hub Coordinator T: 01432 352 235 E: studenthub@hlcollege.ac.uk

As well as the higher education courses included within this guide, we also offer an extensive range of part-time and full-time courses, apprenticeships, programmes for businesses, plus short and recreational courses for adults. Course guides and further information for each of these areas are available via the enquiry line 0800 032 1986, or on our website at www.hlcollege.ac.uk.

Disclaimer

At HLC we aim to provide you with accurate and upto-date information. Every care has been taken when compiling this document; however, sometimes things do change after the time of print. HLC cannot be held responsible for any omissions, errors or changes and some of our courses are offered subject to sufficient numbers of enrolments. For these reasons, we do advise that you call to check essential information, particularly with regards to course fees.

Non-UCAS Applications

For non-UCAS applications, you can apply online via the college website. An acknowledgement letter will be sent to you within 3 days of receipt of your application. If for any reason you do not receive a letter please call Admissions on 0800 032 1986. A date and time will be organised for your interview and you will be notified of this via a further letter. (If you move house after making your application, don’t forget to tell us!)

It is at this stage that you may be asked to complete additional documentation. There will be a reply form attached to your interview invitation and you must send this back to confirm your interview date.

At the interview you will have the opportunity to discuss the reasons for your choice of course and career aspirations. This will enable us to make sure that it is the right course for you. The tutor is there to help you, so please ask as many questions about the course and the College as you wish.

If there is anything you feel you may need help with during your time at college the interview is the ideal time to discuss this.

After your interview you will receive a letter to confirm your course offer or, in some cases, a letter of referral suggesting alternative courses.

There will be a form attached to the offer letter, which must be returned to Admissions to confirm your acceptance.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries or questions. Enrolment day(s) take place in September and you will receive written notification of the date and time to attend.

If you have any questions or queries then please contact Enquiries on 0800 032 1986. 99% “I know how I am expected to behave”