Dear Parent/Guardian,

Thank you for your interest in our UCAS and Progression Event.

If you were unable to make it, we have recorded the session for you. You can access this by clicking below.

Does taking a gap year impact university offers?

No, taking a gap year does not negatively affect your chances. Universities assess all applications received before the equal consideration deadline based on entrance criteria, suitability, and application quality. A well-explained rationale for a gap year (such as gaining skills or experience) can even strengthen an application.

Contact Email Address

For any queries, please contact: careersteam@exe-coll.ac.uk

UCAS Buzzword for 2025/2026 Applicants

Students applying to university in the 2025/2026 academic year should use the buzzword: execoll26

How are predicted grades decided?

Predicted grades are agreed upon during 1:1 tutorials. These discussions focus on the student’s aspirations and are informed by:

• GCSE results

• First-year performance

• Current progress in the second year

We aim to support students to be aspirational and reach their full potential.

What if my young person is interested in progressing on to an apprenticeship?

All apprenticeships require a job that aligns with the level of the apprenticeship.

• The job role must support the apprenticeship level that the young person is applying for,

• Connect with our Apprenticeships Team early for tailored advice. Apprentice Frequently Asked Questions - Exeter College

• Degree Apprenticeships: The UCAS portal has degree apprenticeship opportunities listed on their portal. There is often help from the universities to guide young people seeking degree apprenticeships with their job search and the personal development content covered in tutorials will help with writing personal statements for those roles. Our Careers Team are on hand to offer sector-specific guidance. Contact: careersteam@exe-coll.ac.uk

What if my young person doesn’t want to apply to university this year?

We recommend all Level 3 learners write a personal statement in their second year. That way if they change their mind later, they already have the structure of the statement.  These are also useful when applying for job roles.  Learners can still contact us for a reference after they have left Exeter college. Get in touch: careersteam@exe-coll.ac.uk

How much does it cost to apply to university?

A UCAS application costs £28.95.

We’re away on 21st August – what should we do?

Tutors usually confirm progression to Year 2 via phone or email.

If your young person will be unable to receive this call or email, they should notify their tutor prior to travel via email or Teams so alternative arrangements can be made.

If you have any questions about next steps, please contact our Careers Team.