What to expect at a UCAS Fair

UCAS exhibitions can be a great way to research university options, as you’ll have a chance to meet representatives from lots of universities in one place.​

UCAS Fair Tips

Here’s some top tips on what to expect and how to get the most out of them.

Before the UCAS Fair

Visit the UCAS website to find details of the event you’re attending. You will need to register online to attend the event – this will also generate a barcode which universities will ask to scan, so take a screenshot to make it easily accessible!

Take a look at the guide for your event which includes a floor plan of university stands and a seminar timetable to help you plan your time.​ Universities are usually placed in alphabetical order so they should be easy to find.

Draw up a shortlist of universities that offer the courses that you’re interested in and prepare some key questions​ such as:

• What are the entry requirements for my course?​
• How can I make my application stand out?​
• What is your university known for?​
• Do you offer scholarships and bursaries?​
• What support services do you offer?​
• What is your accommodation like?​
• How practical is the course?​
• Is there a placement year/year abroad?​
• Do you have any open days coming up?

On the day of the UCAS Fair

Visit your favourite stands first, as you may not have time to visit them all and remember – you don’t have to collect a prospectus from every stand, as universities can send you information after the event by scanning your barcode/ticket.

UCAS Conventions take place in large venues, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.​ It’s also worth bringing a bag for the prospectuses and other information you’ll collect – some students even bring suitcases!​

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, this will enable you to get the most out of your visit. Stands often also have current students available to give you a real flavour of what its like to study at their university. You can take notes on your phone or bring a pen and paper with you.

Go to a seminar​, here’s an example schedule to give you an idea of what to expect:

• 10:10 – 10:30: How to start researching what’s right for you
• 10:40 – 11:00: Secrets to a powerful statement
• 11:10 – 11:30: Applying to Oxford and Cambridge
• 11:40 – 12:00: Simple steps to applying to University through UCAS
• 12:00 – 12:30: Student Life
• 12:40 – 13:00: Choosing the right course for you
• 13:10 – 13:30: Student finance made easy
• 13:40 – 14:00: Apprenticeships: Everything you need to know
• 14:10 – 14:30: Creative Arts

We would also recommend you bring food/snacks with you as the queues can get very lengthy at UCAS Exhibitions so this will save you time!

After the UCAS Fair

Research the universities and courses you like in more detail by looking at their website or attending an open day – visiting a university in person is the best way to discover whether it’s right for you, as it’s all about making an informed decision.

Nina Antell, Marketing Officer – Schools and Colleges Liaison

Nina is a Marketing Officer, within the University’s Schools and Colleges Liaison team. The team works closely with teachers, careers advisers, students and parents, to offer both in-school and virtual sessions, designed to prepare students for the university application process and student life.