Applicant selection session guidance notes

• Check your email carefully for your session date, time, location (on-campus or online) and any additional instructions.
• If your session is online, make sure you’ve downloaded the Microsoft Teams app in advance. Avoid logging in via a web browser as this can cause sound or connection issues. Please ensure your device has a working camera and microphone so the panel can observe your participation during group discussions.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can speak comfortably without distractions, and keep a notepad and pen handy in case you’d like to jot down reminders or questions.
• If you’ve gained any relevant experience through paid work, volunteering or creative projects, think about what you learned and how it connects to your future career.

Most sessions are held in small groups, where you’ll take part in discussions or activities with other applicants. This format helps you show teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills: qualities that we value across all our courses.

Depending on your course, your session might also include:

• Group discussions: short conversations about your motivations, experiences and understanding of your chosen subject.
• Portfolio review: if your course involves creative or performance work, you may be asked to share examples of your work or a short performance. Your invitation email will outline what to prepare.
• Written tasks: a short exercise to gauge your thinking and communication skills.

You’ll be assessed on how you express your ideas, listen and respond to others, and approach challenges, and not on what you already know academically!

We want every applicant to have a fair and supportive experience. If you need any additional support or adjustments, such as extra time or specific arrangements, please fill in this form at least 48 hours before your session.

If you’re unsure about what you might need, please do get in touch and we’ll work with you to find a solution.

If you travel to your face-to-face session using public transport, financial support may be available to help cover your travel costs.

Who can claim

• Applicants travelling by bus, coach, train, tram or bicycle.
• Applicants must be based in the UK and have a UK bank account.
• Only one claim per academic year is permitted.

How to claim

• Speak to your course tutor or the Applicant Experience team when you arrive at the building. They will provide guidance on how to submit your claim.
• Claims are subject to verification that you attended your session and a cap on the available fund.

Once your session is complete, we’ll carefully review your application. Decisions usually take a couple of weeks, and you’ll receive an update via UCAS or directly by email if you applied another way.

If you’re not successful at this stage this time, don’t be disheartened! We can often provide feedback to support future applications, and you may be considered for an alternative course that suits your interests and skills.