1. Understand How UCAS Works Without a School

If you’re not applying through a school or college, you can still apply to UK universities via UCAS – the official university application portal. Instead of being attached to a school centre, you can either register as an independent applicant or via Enjoy Education’s UCAS portal.

As an independent applicant, you’re responsible for:

• Completing your personal information
• Writing and uploading your personal statement
• Entering your qualifications (achieved and pending)
• Adding references
• Submitting your application by the UCAS deadline

This might sound daunting, but Enjoy Education’s specialist UCAS tutors guide students through every stage, step by step. You won’t be alone in this process.

2. Secure a Strong Academic Reference

You’ll still need a reference – even if you’re not currently enrolled in school. This can come from:

• A private tutor who knows you well
• A former teacher
• An academic mentor or educational consultant

At Enjoy Education, we match students with experienced tutors who can offer both academic support and serve as referees. We also work with families to prepare references that reflect the student’s independent learning, motivation and academic progress – essential for a strong application.

3. Keep Track of Deadlines and Exam Entries

If you’re not in school, you’re responsible ensuring you have the grades you need to meet university entry requirements (such as A Levels or iGCSEs). Don’t worry – Enjoy Education can take care of:

• Online or in-person teaching across a wide range of GCSE, iGCSE and A Level subjects
• Exam registrations and access arrangements
• Mock exams to support predicted grades
• Liaising with tutors to estimate expected outcomes
• Supporting with UCAS timelines and document uploads

Deadlines matter more than ever when applying independently because you aren’t in a school where all your classmates are doing the same thing! Our team ensures everything is completed well in advance, so you can focus on the content – not the admin.

4. Craft a Stand-Out Personal Statement

When you’re applying outside of a traditional setting, your personal statement becomes even more important. This is your chance to show:

• Passion for your subject
• Independent learning and initiative
• Unique experiences and long-term goals

Our mentors work closely with students to write compelling personal statements that demonstrate academic maturity and individuality – especially helpful if your education has taken a non-traditional path.

5. Be Strategic About Your University Choices

Universities don’t require you to be in a school, but they do want to see evidence of rigour, structure and academic preparedness. Choosing courses that align with your learning background, predicted grades and interests is key.

We help students:

• Shortlist courses and universities
• Understand entry requirements
• Prepare for university interviews or tests
• Create a balanced UCAS application strategy

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Many of the students we support aren’t in school and many go on to receive offers from Russell Group and top universities across the UK. Whether you’re homeschooling, reapplying after a gap, or creating your own academic path, applying to university independently can be just as powerful and often more personal.