Contextual Admissions: Could your background give you a boost into university?
Applying to university can feel like it’s all about grades, but that’s not the full story.
More and more universities are using contextual admissions to look beyond exam results and consider you as a whole person.
If you’ve faced challenges or come from a background that’s underrepresented in higher education, contextual admissions could open doors to a degree course here at University Centre Rotherham you didn’t think was possible.
Whether you’re weighing up your options for after college or are an adult considering returning to education but are unsure if you’ll meet the entry requirements, find out how contextual admissions might be the key to helping you take that next step.
What are contextual admissions, exactly?
Contextual admissions are a way that universities like us here at University Centre Rotherham consider the background and personal circumstances of an applicant when making admissions decisions.
This means we look at more than just your grades, such as where you went to school, your postcode, whether you’ve been in care, or if you’re the first in your family to go to university, when deciding whether to offer you a place.
Why are contextual admissions used?
Contextual admissions aim to level the playing field by recognising that not all students have had the same opportunities or support.
For example, a student who achieved good grades while facing challenges (like financial hardship or lack of access to resources) may be just as capable as someone who had more advantages.
What do contextual offers look like at University Centre Rotherham?
By looking at your achievements in context, we may adjust our usual offer to give you a fair chance at your chosen course. The type of offer you’ll be given will depend on the course you’re applying for, but it might include:
- Lower grade requirements (a grade or two lower than advertised)
- Foundation year or access course offers
- An unconditional offer
- Extra consideration of your application
- Access to outreach programmes or bursaries
Here at University Centre Rotherham, most of our degree courses have lower-than-average UCAS tariff point requirements anyway: 48-64 compared to the average of 95-120 or around 240 for Russell Group unis.
However, UCAS points aren’t the only way we assess an application. All applicants are invited to an interview to assess their suitability for the course and discuss any relevant work experience which may help your application.
Who can benefit from contextual offers?
Examples of common eligibility criteria:
- You live in an area with low university attendance
- You’re eligible for free school meals
- You’ve been in care or are a young carer
- You’re the first in your family to go to university
- You’re from a school with below-average performance
- You’re estranged from your family
- You have a disability or mental health condition
Even if you don’t tick every box, you might still be eligible, so always check university websites when considering your options.
Contextual admissions are also a way to encourage adult learners to apply for university, even if they don’t have any traditional FE qualifications like a BTEC or A Levels. We can take into account any relevant work experience you may have, such as whether you’ve worked in education for many years and would like to do your teaching qualifications, or you’re looking at doing a leadership course to help secure a promotion.
Example:
Two students apply to the same university course. One attended a high-performing sixth form and the other attended a school in a low-income area with fewer resources. If both get the same grades, or even if the second student gets slightly lower grades, the university may give contextual consideration to the second student’s application based on their background.
Aren’t contextual admissions unfair?
Quite the opposite! Contextual admissions help widen participation, ensuring students from all backgrounds get a fair shot at higher education. It’s not about lowering standards but recognising potential.
Will I be treated differently at University Centre Rotherham?
Absolutely not! We pride ourselves on being an inclusive higher education provider with a student body that represents the diversity of our society here in South Yorkshire.
No matter your previous background, we have good faith that you’ll work hard during your time at University Centre Rotherham. Many of our students who get contextual offers go on to thrive academically.
You may also be able to access extra support such as mentoring, bursaries, and peer networks to help you overcome any barriers you’re facing.
How do you apply?
Through UCAS, like any other applicant. Be honest and provide as much detail as possible about your circumstances in your personal statement and school or college reference. You may feel a bit uncomfortable disclosing sensitive information but be reassured that everything is kept strictly confidential.
Further information about how to apply
Want to see if you qualify for a contextual offer?
Check your top universities’ websites for their admission policy or try a contextual offer calculator online. Your future could be closer than you think.
Don’t count yourself out. Do your research, ask questions, and aim high.