UCAS key dates

We highlight the key dates you need to keep an eye out for after you've submitted your university application through UCAS.

The UCAS deadline is approaching. If you're gearing up to submit your application - or if you already have - there are a few important dates to take note of after submission. Scroll on to see when they are.

Let’s talk deadlines

The UCAS deadline changes every year, usually by a day or two, but it’s always at the end of January. If you're applying to uni this year, then you hopefully know that the deadline for submitting your application to UCAS is 29 January 2025.

We definitely encourage applicants to meet the January deadline, if only for peace of mind! But we know life happens, so it might not always be possible. If you've not submitted your UCAS application yet, don't worry - we've got loads of information on things like choosing the right course, how to register on UCAS, and writing your personal statement to help you meet the deadline.

Key dates

Once you've submitted your application, it's time to celebrate the milestone and then wait for updates. After the deadline has passed, there are some dates to keep in mind that relate to any offers you might receive from your chosen unis.

Take a look at the table below to familiarise yourself with those dates for 2026 entry*.

20 October 2025 is the deadline for adding Clearing choices for 2026 entry.

Date

Action

14 January 2026

Application deadline for most undergraduate courses, 6pm (UK time)

26 February 2026

UCAS Extra opens. Applicants who have used all five choices and are not holding any offers may be able to add another choice in their application.

6 May 2026

UCAS Undergraduate applicant decline by default (DBD) If applicants receive all decisions by 31 March, they must reply by 6 May, otherwise their application will be declined by default (DBD). Except for those applicants in Extra.

30 June 2026

Applications received after this deadline are automatically entered into Clearing.

1 July 2026

Last day for applicants to add an Extra choice in their application.

2 July 2026

Clearing opens.

4 August 2026

SQA results day.

13 August 2026

A level and T Level results day.

24 September 2025

The final deadline for applications to 2026 courses. Applications must arrive at UCAS by 6pm (UK time).