Recruitment and admissions policy
This policy is intended to provide and overarching framework for The Manchester Metropolitan University’s admissions policies and procedures. It applies to the recruitment and admission of all students to all undergraduate and postgraduate courses that are delivered at the University and lead to an award from the University where the University has the responsibility for receiving and processing the required application for a course.
Therefore, the provision of the University’s Global Online partnership falls outside the scope of this policy.
Purpose of Policy
Admissions policies and procedures are developed and implemented by Recruitment and Admissions on behalf of the University and are approved by the University’s Academic Board. They are underpinned by our institutional strategic priorities, which are articulated in the University’s strategy.
Scope
This policy covers all stages of an applicant’s interaction with the University, from initial enquiry through to application, receipt of the University’s selection decision until the point of enrolment for successful applicants.
The University strives to observe the rules and procedures set down by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), the Office for Students (OfS) and other good practice guidance provided by the sector (e.g. Universities UK), and to comply with all relevant legislation in relation to its recruitment and admissions activities.
Roles and Responsibilities: Recruitment and Admissions
Recruitment and Admissions maintains a strategic overview of recruitment and admissions activities, working with departments across External Relations and the Faculties to ensure that policies are implemented fairly and consistently. The department is specifically responsible for:
- Developing and delivering co-ordinated processes to ensure that a quality service is provided to individuals from first enquiry to enrolment.
- Developing and managing an enquiry and information service to provide consistently excellent information and advice to potential students, influencers and other stakeholders via telephone, email, face-to-face or digitally.
- Providing a high-quality education liaison service to key feeder schools and colleges.
- Overseeing the production of recruitment and admissions materials to ensure they are accessible, accurate, appropriate and compliant with any external body requirements.
- Leading the development of high-quality admissions policies, processes and procedures for all the University’s provision to support achievement of strategic recruitment targets, liaising closely with faculties and with other University departments.
- Managing the application process, including ensuring all required information is provided, assessing tuition fee status, arranging interviews, ensuring all decisions are made in accordance with agreed criteria and protocols, and undertaking agreed quality assurance measures.
- Delivering consistently excellent advice on admissions processes to enquirers, applicants, relevant third parties and University staff.
- Disseminating information on changes and developments in the sector which affect recruitment and admissions, including good practice.
- Providing training for all staff with recruitment and admissions responsibilities in policies, processes and procedures.
- Monitoring, analysing and reporting on applications and acceptances to the University.
- Providing provision of feedback to unsuccessful applicants.
Recruitment and Admissions is responsible for ensuring that policies and procedures relating to student recruitment and admissions are operated fairly and consistently, in line with the University’s strategic aims and objectives and in compliance with relevant legislation. This policy and all supporting policies have undergone an Equality Impact Assessment to ensure we are paying due regard to the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty.
Recruitment and Admissions has delegated authority to make admissions decisions on behalf of the University for the majority of undergraduate and postgraduate taught applications.
For courses with a portfolio, interview or audition selection element, admissions decisions are made by designated academic staff within the relevant School or Department, with support from Recruitment and Admissions.
Admissions decisions on postgraduate research applications are made by designated academic staff within the relevant School or Department, with support from Recruitment and Admissions.
Recruitment and Admissions staff undertake training and development to ensure knowledge and awareness of relevant admissions policies and procedures remain current.
Roles and Responsibilities: Admissions tutors
Each course has a nominated academic Admissions Tutor or course lead who is responsible for supporting recruitment and admissions activity for that course. This includes:
- working closely with Recruitment and Admissions to develop and implement appropriate, fair and consistent entry criteria and admissions processes.
- providing key information about courses and their content to ensure that the course enquiry service is accurate, detailed and professional.
- supporting education liaison activity in schools and colleges.
- conducting interviews or auditions, supervising tests, making assessment decisions where required and recording reasons for the outcome, and providing feedback as appropriate.
- providing expert opinion on non-standard applications and in those instances where it has been agreed that decisions will be referred to them.
- supporting events on campus (e.g. Open Days, Applicant Visit Days, Recruitment Fairs);
- supporting confirmation and clearing activities.
The Recruitment and Admissions Policy applies to all full-time and part-time undergraduate and postgraduate students where the University is responsible for receiving and processing the relevant application form for a course.
It is designed to ensure that:
- the University provides a professional, expert, fair and seamless service to prospective students, enabling them to make informed decisions;
- the University admits students with the ability, potential and motivation to benefit from the programmes of study which they intend to follow;
- all applications are assessed fairly and consistently according to criteria that are clear, fair and transparent.
1 Fair Admissions
The University is committed to delivering a fair admissions system that protects and prioritises applicants’ interests, and follows the five key principles of Fair Admissions as outlined in the Schwartz Review (updated 2020):
- Transparency and consistency in admissions processes and in the provision of information to prospective students.
- Selection of students who are able to complete their course of study, based on evidence of achievement and potential.
- Use of reliable, valid and explainable assessment and selection methods.
- Ensuring barriers to applicants are minimised and inequities are addressed.
- Professionalism in all aspects of admissions, underpinned by institutional structures and processes.
The University is also a signatory of the Fair Admissions Code of Practice co-developed by Universities UK and GuildHE.
2 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
The University is proud of its diverse community of staff, students and visitors and is committed to creating an intentionally inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity, ensuring that everybody is treated with dignity and respect.
Applications are encouraged from prospective students from all backgrounds. The University is committed to providing equal opportunities to all, irrespective of:
- Age
- Disability
- Sex
- Gender identity
- Marital or civil partnership status
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sexual orientation
The University will ensure that treatment is equal regardless of an individual’s identification with one or more protected characteristics, their socio-economic background, family responsibilities, or any other appropriate distinction. This is underpinned by the University’s Equality and Diversity Policy.
The University’s admissions policies and procedures are designed to ensure that all applications are considered fairly and consistently, and in accordance with professional standards.
3 Outreach and Widening Participation
The University’s Education Strategy articulates our mission to recruit ambitious students from all backgrounds and to inspire and support them to achieve. Our commitment is demonstrated in our admissions processes, for example, recognition of prior work experience (where appropriate) and accepting a wide range of qualifications, including those of a vocational nature (see section 12).
We are the lead institution for the Uni Connect partnership in Greater Manchester and work with partners to provide a range of activities to learners from Years 9-11, and our post-16 outreach team works across the country to provide expert information and advice to students at the pre-entry stage of the higher education journey. We are committed to providing reliable and engaging information, advice and guidance, both face-to-face and via online platforms. Activities include:
- Lead partner in the Uni Connect partnership, Greater Manchester Higher
- Operating our award-winning scholarship programme, First Generation
- Information talks for students, parents/carers, and teachers/advisors
- On campus and in school visits and workshops
- Mentoring
- Subject-specific activity with faculties and departments at the University
- Working with schools/colleges with low progression to higher education
4 Information for Prospective Students
The University is committed to providing pre-entry information that is accurate, relevant, current and easily accessible to enable prospective students to make informed choices and decisions, and to complying with advice from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). This includes publishing course details in relevant external listings. However, whilst every effort is made to ensure that information provided is fair and accurate when published, changes may sometimes be made following publication of printed material. Prospective students should refer to the University’s website for the most up-to-date information about course content, entry criteria, University processes and financial matters. Alternatively, up-to-date information is available via Recruitment and Admissions.
The University also provides opportunities to access information through a range of outreach and on-campus events, including Open Days, Applicant Visit Days, postgraduate fairs and school and college visits. Ongoing communication with applicants throughout the recruitment and admissions process is designed to raise awareness of opportunities and clarify issues of particular interest to an individual applicant.
Pre-entry information available to applicants includes:
- The range and location of courses provided.
- The levels and modes of study available, and possible start dates.
- Course content, including core and potential optional units, and study abroad or placement opportunities where available.
- Academic and any non-academic entry criteria, with tailored guidance available to an individual’s qualifications and circumstances upon request.
- Fees and other costs associated with the course, and the availability of financial support, advice and guidance.
- Accreditation and/or approval of programmes by professional, statutory and regulatory bodies.
- Details of any placement, work experience or field course that forms part of the course.
- The main learning, teaching and assessment methods used in a course.
- Appropriate opportunities to visit the University, e.g. Open Days, Applicant Visit Days, drop-in sessions.
- Policies and procedures relevant to the recruitment and admissions process.
- Advice and guidance on the application and admissions process.
- Information on welfare, guidance and support services that are available for all students, as well as services, access and facilities that are available for those with particular needs.
- Information on graduate outcomes.
5 Methods of Application to the University
Applications for the following courses should normally be submitted via UCAS:
5.1 Undergraduate
All full-time undergraduate degree and foundation year courses. This includes applications for advanced undergraduate entry and/or transfers from other higher education providers.
The following should not be submitted via UCAS:
- Degree Apprenticeships
- Continuing Professional Development Courses
- UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
- Part-time undergraduate degree study
- Visiting student or incoming exchange applications
5.2 Postgraduate
- MSc Adult Nursing and MSc Mental Health Nursing
- MA Social Work
- MSc (Pre-Registration) Physiotherapy
- MSc (Pre-Registration) Speech and Language Therapy
Please note the above list of postgraduate courses may be subject to change, and up-to-date information is available on the course listings of the University website.
Applications via UCAS are accepted and processed in accordance with published UCAS dates and deadlines, and the UCAS Terms of Service.
International undergraduate applicants may apply via UCAS or directly to the University, if applying via a University partner or approved education adviser.
Applications for postgraduate-level courses should be made directly to the University, with the exception of those listed in 3.5.2 and 3.5.3. In addition, applications should be made direct to the University (or via an approved partner, where relevant) for the following:
- Degree apprenticeships
- Continuing Professional Development courses
- UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
- Part-time undergraduate degree study
- Visiting student or incoming exchange applications
5.3 PGCE and LLM Legal Practice
Applications for the LLM Legal Practice course and LLM Graduate Legal Studies course should be submitted via Central Applications Board (CAB).
Applications for PGCE teacher training courses should be submitted via the Department for Education’s Apply for Teacher Training service.
The University’s course pages provide updated guidance on relevant direct application methods and procedures, including deadlines where applicable.
6 Entry Requirements
The University’s entry requirements are reviewed and updated regularly, normally at the start of each academic year.
Printed materials including prospectuses are published in advance of the academic year to which they relate; while they will be accurate at the time of print, they may not reflect the most up-to-date entry requirements or course content. The University endeavours to ensure online course listings are accurate and up-to-date; prospective students are therefore encouraged to check the University’s e-prospectus prior to application to ensure they have accessed the most up-to-date information.
The University publishes entry requirements based on the most commonly presented qualifications. A wide range of equivalent UK and non-UK qualifications are also accepted; guidance is available via Recruitment and Admissions or the University’s International Office.
7 English Language Requirements
All applicants are required to demonstrate evidence of proficiency in the use of English language to the minimum standard required by the University for the relevant course and level of study. International students who require a Student visa to study in the UK also need to demonstrate that they meet the government’s minimum level of English language proficiency.
The relevant English language requirements are listed within the entry requirements for each course. Details on accepted qualifications are available and further guidance is available on request from Recruitment and Admissions or the University’s International Office.
8 Assessment and Selection of Applicants
When considering an application, the University may take into account:
- Previous study, including subjects and grades achieved in qualifications already awarded
- Current study, including subjects and predicted grades in qualifications being completed
- Evidence of interest in and commitment to the subject(s), motivation and readiness for university study
- Where relevant, work experience or other non-academic experience
- Academic and/or professional references
- Where required, assessment of an applicant’s portfolio, sample of written work or other form of assessment not contained in the application form
- Where required, an applicant’s performance at interview or audition
- Evidence of English language proficiency
- Any mitigating or exceptional factors that are relevant to an applicant’s past or potential academic performance
For research degrees, submission of a research proposal will be required as part of the formal application.
9 Offers to Applicants
Offers are made in line with the approved entry criteria for the chosen course, for the relevant year of entry.
Applicants who achieve an offer of a place will be sent an offer letter. This will normally be accompanied by a Key Facts document outlining material course content, and an Important Information for Offer Holders document which outlines key University terms and conditions, including applicants’ statutory right to cancel.
Offers may include both academic and non-academic conditions. Offer conditions are communicated via UCAS for applications submitted via UCAS; for applications submitted directly to the University, offer conditions are included within the offer letter.
For undergraduate degree courses, conditional offers may be made based on achieving a minimum UCAS tariff score, obtaining specific grades and/or specific subjects, or a combination of the above.
Applicants who are selected for an offer who have already satisfied all academic and English language entry requirements for their course, will normally be issued an unconditional offer. Any non-academic conditions attached to the offer will still need to be met. Further information on this included in the Information for Offer Holders document and the University’s Terms and Conditions.
It is the responsibility of applicants to check any academic and non-academic conditions attached to their offer and to contact the Admissions Office to seek clarification if required, or if there is any anticipated difficulty in meeting the conditions.
The University retains all discretion as to whether to make an offer to an applicant and the terms of that offer.
10 Unsuccessful Applications
The University often experiences high volumes of applications, resulting in competition for places. Applications may be assessed against a number of criteria (as outlined in Section 12) and meeting the minimum academic entry requirement for the course does not guarantee an offer of a place.
Where an applicant does not qualify for an offer for their chosen course, or where the chosen course is not available, Recruitment and Admissions may make an offer for an alternative course. In such cases, course information will be provided to the applicant, either at the point of offer or prior to offer, and the applicant will have the right to accept or decline that offer.
Applicants who are unsuccessful in securing a place on their chosen course are welcome to submit a new application in a subsequent year. Applications will be considered against the approved entry requirements for the intended year of entry.
11 Feedback to Applicants
The University will aim to provide feedback to applicants whose applications have been unsuccessful, where this is requested. Detailed feedback may not be possible for all courses and feedback may be subject to delay at times when the University is managing a high volume of applications.
12 Assessment of Student Fee Status
The level of tuition fee charged by the University varies, depending on whether the student is classified as Home or Overseas for fees purposes.
Applicants are assigned a student fee status at the point of application, based on information provided within the application form. Recruitment and Admissions applies set criteria to assess the fee status of each applicant; further information on the relevant legislation and guidance is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.
Applicants who wish to query their assigned student fee status should submit a written request to Recruitment and Admissions.
Where it is not possible to determine student fee status based on information provided in the application form, applicants will be required to complete and return the University’s Fee Status Questionnaire. Applicants may also be required to submit supplementary documentation if requested to enable Recruitment and Admissions to make an accurate fee status assessment.
In some cases, an offer of a place may be issued, prior to the completion of the student fee status assessment. In such cases the offer will be conditional upon completion of the Fee Status Questionnaire and will remain conditional until the student fee status has been assigned.
It is the responsibility of students to ensure they have sufficient funds in place to cover tuition fees, any associated course costs and living expenses for the duration of their studies.
Further information relating to fees and funding is available at Student Finance.
13 Students Under 18 Years of Age on Entry
Occasionally, the University admits students who are under the age of 18 years at the start of their course. All applications are considered on their individual merits.
A copy of the Policy for Students Under the Age of 18 Years is sent out to relevant applicants at the point an offer is issued, together with a parental consent form and guardian form. It is a condition of registration with Manchester Metropolitan University that the parent or legal guardian of any applicant who will be under the age of 18 years on entry to the University confirm their acceptance of the arrangements set for those under 18 by signing and returning the relevant consent form and, if applicable, the guardian form.
The University requires a completed guardian form for any student under the age of 18 whose parent or legal guardian is resident outside the UK.
Offers will remain conditional until the relevant forms have been returned to, reviewed and accepted by Recruitment and Admissions.
14 Disabled Applicants or Additional Support Needs
The University is committed to providing equal opportunities in education for all students and will take reasonable and proportionate steps to meet both the general need for access and the specific needs of individuals with additional support needs.
Applications from disabled students will be assessed against the same academic criteria and, where relevant, non-academic criteria, as applied to other applicants. Any practical considerations relating to accessibility or reasonable adjustments at the University will take place separately to the assessment of an applicant’s academic suitability for an offer of a place. Where there are specific health and safety concerns or potential barriers relating to professional body requirements or other prescribed standards, these will also be considered separately.
In line with The Equality Act 2010, the University will make reasonable adjustments where required, to ensure the provision of equal opportunities for disabled applicants in the admissions and selection process.
Applicants who accept an offer of a place who share in their application a disability, health condition or Specific Learning Difficulty will be contacted by the University’s Disability Support team with information and guidance on the support available.
Information pertaining to an individual’s additional support needs may be shared with relevant administrative or academic staff, where this is required to discuss or implement practical adjustments to the admissions process in relation to accessibility. Information provided in an application will be retained in the University’s records in line with the University’s retention schedule.
Any applicant who may require additional support in their studies due to a disability, health condition or Specific Learning Difficulty is encouraged to contact the Disability Support team prior to accepting the offer of a place to explore how the University can help to meet study support, accommodation or welfare and support needs.
15 Applications for Deferred Entry
The University is happy to consider applications for deferred entry, subject to course availability. For undergraduate courses, applications for deferred entry can be made via UCAS at the point of application. Alternatively, any applicant may request to defer an existing conditional or unconditional offer to the following academic year.
Applications for deferred entry will normally be assessed against the current entry requirements and in line with the established process for the current admissions cycle. In cases where there is a scheduled change to professional body requirements for the intended year of entry, Recruitment and Admissions may make adjustments to requirements or processes as necessary to ensure offers are issued to eligible candidates. The process is outlined below:
- Deferral requests should be submitted in writing to the relevant admissions team. All deferral requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will be subject to course availability and capacity and at the discretion of the University.
- Applicants holding a deferred offer, who seek a subsequent deferral, will normally be required to submit a new application for their chosen course.
- Applicants whose first language is not English and who are required to present an English language qualification as a condition of entry, should ensure that the relevant qualification remains valid at the intended date of entry. Applicants for deferred entry should expect to re-sit the English language qualification if required to ensure compliance with University and, where applicable, Home Office requirements.
Where an offer of a deferred place is made, tuition fees and associated costs, course content and terms and conditions for the actual year of entry will be applicable. Information on tuition fees, any updates to course content and updated terms and conditions for the intended year of entry will be provided to the applicant when available.
Applications for entry to Year 2 or Year 3 of an undergraduate degree course will be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to capacity on the intended course of study. Decisions on advanced entry applications will be made by the nominated academic course admissions tutor, based on an individual assessment of the applicant’s academic suitability and readiness for study at the relevant level.
In order that full and fair assessment of previous study can take place, applicants for advanced entry will normally be required to submit additional documentation in support of their application, including full academic transcripts.
17 Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
The University may consider students who provide evidence of prior learning exception from aspects of their academic programme if they can demonstrate their existing knowledge and skills meets the relevant requirements.
Further information is available on the University’s Recognition of Prior Learning policy and process.
18 Readmissions
Applicants who have previously withdrawn, been withdrawn, from study at the University, or who are currently studying and are seeking to transfer to a different course with markedly different entry requirements are handled by the Admissions Team on a case-by-case basis. Individuals in this situation should contact the relevant Admissions Team in the first instance.
19 Non-standard Entry
Applications from applicants who do not meet the standard academic course entry requirement but who have significant work or other relevant experience, either in addition to or in lieu of formal qualifications, will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Decisions will be made by the nominated course admissions tutor, based on an assessment of the applicant’s readiness for study and ability to succeed at the relevant level. Applicants may be asked to submit additional information or to complete an individual assessment as part of this process. This could include but is not limited to: submission of a piece of written work or portfolio; completion of a subject or skills-based task; attendance at interview. The evidence required may be based on a mixture of skills, experience and any non-standard qualifications.
20 Extenuating Circumstances
The University will consider on a case-by-case basis, extenuating circumstances that have affected or are affecting the performance of an applicant in their pre-entry qualifications. The University expects that applicants or a nominated third party will have taken steps to ensure relevant awarding bodies have been notified to take any such circumstances into account, prior to the release of results.
Applicants should notify Recruitment and Admissions of any extenuating circumstances as early as possible and if possible before 1 July in the year of application, so that these can be considered as part of the confirmation process. Applicants should submit details of special or extenuating circumstances to the Admissions Office in writing, together with supporting documentation and/or statements from a relevant referee or professional and written consent to speak to these third parties if relevant.
21 Disclosure of Criminal Convictions
The University is committed to taking reasonable and proportionate steps to protect students, staff and visitors. As part of this duty of care, all applicants who accept the offer of a place to study at the University are required to disclose any relevant, unspent criminal convictions.
Relevant convictions disclosed to University will be assessed to determine the level of risk to the University community and, where relevant, the applicant’s suitability for their chosen course of study.
All applicants who declare criminal convictions will be treated fairly and the University makes every effort to prevent unfair prejudice against these applicants, whilst ensuring the need to protect the University community.
Initial disclosure is made via a self-declaration process. Information on disclosure requirements is included within formal offer documentation and further guidance is available at disclosure of criminal convictions.
Further to this, as part of the online enrolment process, all new and returning students to the University will be asked to confirm whether they have relevant, unspent convictions not previously disclosed to the University.
- Applicants for courses that include placements involving regulated activity or that otherwise require an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, are asked to disclose all previous convictions or other punishments that may show up in a DBS check.
- Applicants for courses requiring a DBS check, that include an interview as part of the admissions process, may be asked to return their completed self-declaration form prior to or at interview.
- Relevant convictions disclosed via the self-declaration process will be considered by the University Risk Panel and/or faculty Risk Panel. The University Risk Panel comprises senior representatives from Recruitment and Admissions; Student Services; Accommodation Services; and a faculty representative.
- For courses requiring a DBS check, any disclosure made via the self-declaration process will be considered by a nominated representative within the relevant School or Department and, where relevant, by the University Risk Panel. Where appropriate, partner agencies may be consulted in the consideration of individual cases to meet the demands of professional regulation.
- The University may withdraw, terminate or amend any offer of admission to study at the University if it is determined that such action reduces the risk of harm to the University community, prevents disruption to the University and/or protects the reputation of the University.
- The University may withdraw or terminate any offer of admission to study at the University or exclude from the University any student, in cases where:
- (i) an applicant or student has deliberately, knowingly or recklessly failed to disclose a relevant unspent conviction, or has deliberately misrepresented the circumstances/seriousness of the offence(s);
- (ii) following a decision in connection with the University’s Policy and Procedures relating to the Risk Panel process and, where applicable, the Disclosure and Barring Service processes accessible and as updated from time to time.
- No applicant will be excluded from the application process solely on the grounds that a relevant conviction has been disclosed.
- All records and correspondence concerning an applicant who has disclosed a relevant criminal conviction will be securely stored according to the University’s Data Protection Impact Assessment and Data Protection Policy.
- All records and correspondence concerning an applicant who has disclosed information from their DBS disclosure certificate will be securely stored according to the University’s Data Protection Impact Assessment and Data Protection Policy.
- The University maintains a Retention and Disposal Schedule setting the periods for which records containing Personal Data, including disclosure of criminal convictions, are to be retained. After the requisite period, disclosure information will be destroyed by secure means and in line with University guidance on handling confidential waste.
- Further information is provided in the University’s Risk Policy and Procedure for Applicants with Criminal Convictions and at disclosure of criminal convictions.
22 Occupational Health Assessments
Applicants for certain vocational or professional courses are required to complete a health declaration and, where appropriate, undergo a medical fitness assessment. This is to demonstrate medical fitness to undertake placements and to practice in the relevant field, and to ensure compliance with the requirements of relevant professional bodies.
Where a health declaration and associated checks are required, this information will be provided as part of the published course entry criteria and this will be included as a non-academic condition in offers issued to applicants.
23 Immigration and Visa Support for International Applicants
The University is a licensed Sponsor for international applicants who require a visa to study in the UK.
In order to apply for a Student visa, applicants require a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number. The Admissions Office will raise a CAS once the applicant has accepted their offer and met any outstanding conditions of entry. In most cases applicants are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before a CAS is raised; information on this deposit is included in the offer letter.
Applicants are expected to provide information as requested in support of the CAS process. This includes completion of the University’s CAS Request Form.
If an applicant is unsuccessful in securing a Student visa, the University may withdraw, terminate or defer the existing offer of a place as appropriate. The University also reserves the right not to issue a CAS for a student where there is evidence that the visa application is unlikely to be successful.
24 Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)
International students are required to obtain an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate to study certain postgraduate or integrated Masters courses in the UK that involve the study of sensitive subjects. Where this is required, applicants must obtain an ATAS certificate for the relevant course before applying for their student visa. Please note that an ATAS certificate is required for from nationals of applicable countries even where the applicant does not need a Student visa for the course.
Students who are nationals of European Economic Area (EEA) countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland or the United States of America do not need an ATAS certificate.
An ATAS certificate is valid for six months from the date it is issued. Applicants are encouraged to commence the ATAS application process as soon as possible after receiving an unconditional offer of a place.
Further information is available on the Government’s website about the Academic Technology Approval Scheme.
25 Interaction Between Applicants and the University
Recruitment and Admissions and, where relevant, academic admissions tutors, will communicate with applicants as required to support the admissions and selection process.
The University will also communicate regularly with offer holders to provide information relevant to their application. This may include information on: student accommodation; fees and funding; immigration and visa requirements and support; enrolment processes and welcome information.
It is the responsibility of applicants/offer holders to respond to any requests for information or action, including responding to offers and meeting any conditions of offer by any specified deadlines, to ensure the effective processing of their application or offer.
All members of the University community have a right to expect to be treated with courtesy and respect, and inappropriate behaviour towards staff, students, applicants or visitors will not be tolerated. Examples of inappropriate behaviour include verbal or physical aggression or hostility.
Inappropriate behaviour on the part of an applicant will be viewed seriously. Where the University is made aware of such behaviour, this will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Where there is evidence of behaviour deemed to be sufficiently serious, this may be considered in gauging an applicant’s suitability for an offer or enrolment at the University.
26 Confirmation of Conditional Offers
Upon receiving an applicant’s exam results and/or verifying their qualifications, the University will confirm whether an applicant has met the academic conditions for entry. The University reserves the right to verify all results by checking appropriate qualification documentation prior to confirming an applicant’s place and/or permitting registration with the University. Where an applicant has met or exceeded the exact conditions specified in their offer, including any non-academic conditions, an unconditional offer will be issued.
Where an applicant has not met the conditions of their offer, the application will be reviewed and considered before a decision is confirmed. If it is not possible to confirm the applicant on their original course choice, the applicant will be considered for possible suitable alternative courses. If an alternative is offered, applicants are given the opportunity to consider this alternative offer before accepting or declining. Where there is no suitable alternative, due to course availability or the applicant’s profile against the course entry requirements, the applicant will be advised that their application has been unsuccessful, and their offer will be withdrawn or terminated.
Where an applicant is rejected following receipt of their exam results and then goes on to obtain a re-grade that meets the academic conditions of entry for their chosen course, the University will consider the new grade profile and will endeavour to honour the original offer issued to the applicant where possible. This will be subject to a number of factors, including course capacity and the ability of the applicant to complete enrolment by the specified final enrolment date.
Where an offer-holder meets the conditions for entry after the last permitted date for acceptance, Recruitment and Admissions will communicate alternative options to the applicant. This may include alternative courses at the University if applicable, or the option of deferring the existing course offer to the following year of entry.
27 Clearing
The University will advertise and accept applications via Clearing for any remaining undergraduate course vacancies following the end of the main UCAS admissions cycle at the end of June each year. Applicants during Clearing will be considered against the agreed entry criteria, which may be higher or lower than those published during the main admissions period.
28 Verification of Qualifications
The University requires all applicants to provide evidence of the qualifications upon which their offer of a place is based.
Where it is possible to verify qualifications without reverting to the applicant (for example, exam results that are passed to universities directly from the awarding bodies via UCAS), Recruitment and Admissions will do so. However, applicants should be in a position to provide original certificates or other acceptable evidence of their qualifications on request, in order to meet the conditions of entry for their course. Original certificates may be requested at any stage prior to, or following, enrolment.
In line with Department for Education guidelines, as a condition of enrolment applicants for professional Teacher Education courses will be asked to provide original GCSE (or equivalent) certificates where required and, where applicable, an original degree certificate.
The University may withdraw, terminate or amend an offer of a place to an applicant if it is not possible to verify a qualification upon which the offer has been based.
29 Fraud, Omission and Plagiarism
The University reserves the right to cancel an application, withdraw, terminate or amend the offer of a place and/or to revoke registration on a course of study where an applicant has omitted information relevant to their application and suitability for study, or where an applicant has provided false, misleading or plagiarised information as part of the admissions process. The University also reserves the right to notify relevant third parties where the University considers it to be appropriate.
The University may, at any time, request further information from an applicant, their referee or employer, where required to inform a decision on their application or to verify information provided as part of that application. Scanned copies of documents are generally accepted during the admission process but original documents can be requested at any stage prior to, or following, enrolment.
The validity of the documentation submitted by applicants is checked by staff who are trained in detecting and dealing with fraudulent documents. Where appropriate, the validity of documents will be checked with the issuing authority.
Further information is provided within the Important Information for Offer Holders document.
30 Similarity Detection in Personal Statements
UCAS operates a Similarity Detection Service that includes the screening of all personal statements submitted via UCAS. Personal statements are compared against a library of personal statements previously submitted to UCAS and collected from websites and other sources. Further information, including the notification process to universities, is available on the UCAS’s webpage for the Similarity Detection Service.
Where the University is notified of similarity detection in a personal statement, this will be reviewed on an individual basis. Recruitment and Admissions may contact an applicant for further information and will take further steps as appropriate to the case. This may include requesting that the applicant submit a new or revised personal statement. The University reserves the right to reject an application on the basis of plagiarism in a personal statement.
31 Changes to or Discontinuation of Course Provision
Delivery, content, structure and assessment of courses are subject to review and development on an ongoing basis to enhance the student experience, ensure compliance with the requirements of professional or accrediting bodies, and ensure that courses remain current and academic standards are maintained.
Occasionally, it is necessary to make changes to course provision or entry requirements for reasons outside the University’s control.
The University aims to inform prospective students at the earliest practicable opportunity where a material course change, suspension or discontinuation is approved in the period after an offer is issued and prior to enrolment. Further information on possible changes to course provision, the communication of changes, and applicants’ rights in the event of material course changes, is included within the Important Information for Offer Holders document.
32 Appeals and Complaints
The University aims to consider all applications fairly in line with established policies and procedures. Any applicant who is not satisfied with the outcome of their application, or the way in which their application has been handled, should in the first instance raise their concerns via the relevant admissions team responsible for processing the application.
In the event that concerns remain following this process, applicants who wish to lodge a formal appeal against an admissions decision, or who wish to make a formal complaint, will be referred to the University’s Appeals and Complaints Procedure for Applicants. This policy is designed to safeguard the interests of prospective students.
33 Use and Storage of Applicant Data
Enquirer data is collected and used for the specific purpose of providing those enquirers with relevant information on the University, its courses and services as per the Privacy Notice for Enquirers and Prospective Students.
Information provided to the University by an applicant or nominated third party (either directly, via UCAS or via an approved University partner or education adviser), will be used to process and make decisions on the application submitted. Information may also be used to communicate with applicants on matters relevant to their application or studies, including the provision of University services and events as per the Privacy Notice for Student Applicants.
Further details of how applicant and student data is stored and used is available within the University’s Records Management Policy and the Retention and Disposal Schedule.
34 Data Protection and Disclosure of Personal Information
The processing of applicant personal data is regulated by the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The University’s Data Protection Policy sets out the University’s commitment to comply with both the DPA and GDPR. This includes:
- Only using personal data where we have a lawful basis for that processing as identified within the Recruitment and Admission’s Record of Processing Activity.
- Ensuring that we provide applicants with adequate fair processing and privacy information, for example by referring applicants to relevant privacy notices at the point of data collection and/or in our communications.
- Conducting data protection assessments prior to commencing new processing activities using recruitment and admissions information assets as per the University’s Data Protection Assessment Procedure.
- Maintaining an appropriate level of information security and access control as per the University’s Information Security Control Classification Procedure.
- Assisting Legal Services to respond to requests under the data subject rights in relation to recruitment and admissions information assets.
- Disposing of personal data in accordance with recruitment and admissions-related periods within the Retention and Disposal Schedule.
35 Freedom of Speech
At all times, the University will, in the course of interpreting and implementing this procedure, have regard for its obligations to secure freedom of speech and academic freedom within the law for its students, staff, members and visiting speakers as described in the Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech.
- Version: 1.1
- Date equality impact assessment approved: 8 February 2024
- Owner: Karen Varty, Director of Recruitment and Admissions
- Author: Karen Varty, Director of Recruitment and Admissions
- Approved Date: March 2024
- Approved by: Academic Board
- Last reviewed: November 2023
- Date for review: November 2026
- Changes in last review: Minor changes to reflect changes in Fair Admissions Code of Practice and institutional terminology changes regarding Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.