Apply Now! It’s Not Too Late
Still unsure what you or your young person is doing this September? Thought you or they had missed the chance to go to college?
Good news – you haven’t!
While many students lock in their college plans months in advance, plenty of colleges across the country still have open spots for September 2025.
Colleges understand that not everyone makes their decisions at the same time. Life is busy, and plans change – that’s why most further education colleges (and sixth form colleges) continue to take applications throughout the summer, right up until enrolment in August and early September.
Whether you’re interested in A-levels, T Levels, BTECs, apprenticeships or vocational courses – there are still places available.
Why colleges still accept applications in July (and even August)
Colleges know that not every student follows the same timeline. Some need more time to decide.
Others are waiting on financial aid, life circumstances, or simply clarity. That’s why many institutions offer rolling admissions or late application deadlines.
In fact, many schools expect and welcome applications well into the summer.
What you can do right now
If you’re thinking about applying for this September, here are three steps you can take immediately:
1. Search for colleges with open enrolment
Visit college websites to find institutions still accepting applications.
Most colleges clearly list their open courses and how to apply – and many now let you apply quickly online.
Rotherham College, North Notts College and Dearne Valley College are still accepting applications for courses up to Level 3 and University Centre Rotherham Level 4 and above courses.
2. Reach out and ask
If you’re unsure what’s available or whether you’re eligible, give the college a call or send them an email.
Admissions teams are friendly, helpful, and used to late applications – they’ll guide you through the process.
Rotherham College, North Notts College and Dearne Valley College admissions teams are available and our Colleges are open Monday to Friday 8.30am – 5pm all summer!
3. Get your documents ready
You may need your predicted or actual GCSE grades, a reference, or a short personal statement – but don’t worry if you’re not 100% prepared yet.
Many colleges are flexible and will help you sort everything before you start.
Not having a plan feels stressful – but you still have time
You might feel like “everyone else” already knows what they’re doing – but the truth is, thousands of students apply for college courses over the summer. It’s completely normal to still be deciding on your next step in July.
Whether you want to study health and social care, business, engineering, art, computing, or any other subject – there’s a course out there for you.
Final thoughts
If you’re still deciding what to do next – don’t panic. There’s still time. There are still places. And there’s still support to help you take the next step.
Apply now. It’s not too late to start college this September!