Applying for part-time study
Applying for Part-time Study
Most universities handle part-time applications directly. Forms are available from universities and often online.
With the application form, you will get guidance notes which you should read carefully - errors may delay your application.
Normal practice is to apply for one course at a time and you will usually be expected to complete a personal statement section. Hints and tips on writing this statement follow. Support is available at Teesside from the Passport Team.
You can access further information by viewing the links on the list located to the right of these paragraphs
How to apply
Contact the university you wish to apply to and request an application form or check websites for online application forms. Be sure to access any guidance notes available and check you have included all of the necessary information and documents in your application.
You will normally be required to include at least one reference with your application - it won't normally be considered until your reference is received.
Your referee should be someone who knows you well enough to indicate your suitability for the course you are applying for. It might be a senior work colleague, careers officer or other professional person. If you're in education or have only recently left, ask a teacher, tutor or lecturer. Most universities will not accept references from relatives or friends. The reference can be included with the application or the referee may send it directly.
You should keep a copy of your application - just in case. Also ensure you use the correct postage for the size and weight of your envelope. If you are asked to send original qualifications or personal documents, it is advisable to use recorded delivery.
When to apply
Most part-time courses start in late September, although this may vary. For courses starting in September, recruitment may begin as early as January/February and will run till shortly before the course begins.
You are strongly encouraged to apply by any deadline dates given, particularly for popular courses which will fill up quickly.
The selection process
You've decided what you want to study and where, filled in and sent off your application form...what happens next?
Your application will be passed to the appropriate admissions tutor or department for consideration. In some cases the university will acknowledge receipt of your application but not always. If further information is required the university will contact you directly. Any decisions will be notified in writing.
University interviews
Some universities invite you for interview before deciding to offer a place. For hints and tips on university interviews visit:
Pre-entry tests
You may also be required to sit a pre-entry test. For example, we ask all applicants to nursing or midwifery to sit a literacy and numeracy test before interview. For advice please contact our School of Health & Social Care admissions office for more information. T: 01642 384110 E: sohscadmissions@tees.ac.uk.
Download nursing numeracy sample test
What if I'm unsuccessful?
Competition is high but there is support if you don't get an offer. If you're a Passport member our team can offer advice and support.
Universities don't automatically tell you why you weren't offered a place but you make a request in writing for feedback.
Offers
You can receive either a conditional or unconditional offer.
Conditional offer
If you get a conditional offer, to guarantee your place you must achieve the specified number of UCAS points or qualification grades. A conditional offer may also ask you to complete a key skills qualification or equivalent before starting the course if your GCSE grades are not at the required level. A further condition may be that you submit a portfolio and/or attend an interview.
Unconditional offer
If you receive an unconditional offer you must notify the university of your acceptance - these are usually made if you have already achieved the necessary qualifications.
What if I'm unsuccessful?
Competition for university places is always high, particularly for some courses. Support is available if you find yourself holding no course offers, so there's no need to panic.
Our Adult Passport Team can offer advice and you might want to ask for feedback to get a better idea of what to do next.
If you have not met the entry requirements you may need to complete a course at a further education college before applying again. If places are full, they may offer to retain your application and offer you a place in the next intake.
The best way to find out why you have been unsuccessful is to contact the university admissions department.
