International Undergraduate Application Guide
If you would like to study an undergraduate course at University of the West of Scotland, it is easy to make an application.
However, first there are a few steps that you need to go through to ensure you have everything you need to make an application.
Confirmation of Acceptance to Study (CAS)
Check our dedicated webpage for important information regarding your Confirmation of Accepatance of Studies (CAS), including: application deadlines, payment deadlines and document submission deadlines:
CAS Information if you are applying to any UWS Scottish campus
CAS Information if you are applying to UWS London Campus
UK and EU applicants
All prospective undergraduate students (UK, Republic of Ireland, other EU and Non-EU), not applying through an agent or partner, should apply to study at UWS through Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
EU students applying through an agent or named UWS partner should apply to study at UWS via our Online Application System.
Non-EU/non-EEA applicants
If you are applying from a non-EU/EEA country for entry to one of UWS's undergraduate degree courses, and have not applied already via UCAS, or have not applied to another UK university, then you may apply through our Online Application System.
In addition, if you are a non-EU applicant and are applying through one of our recognised partners or agents for a full-time undergraduate degree course at UWS can also apply using our Online Application System.
Step-by-step guide
Before you begin your application, it is important to read our step-by-step guide for a smooth and stress-free process.
Step 1: Choose a course
Decide which course you would like to study at UWS, making sure that it is the appropriate level of study for you.
Course Search
Find your course of interest from our career-focused undergraduate, postgraduate (taught) and post-experience options.
Step 2: Entry requirements
Make sure that your academic qualifications and English language levels meet the requirements for your chosen course. Please note that you must be able to provide proof of all qualifications. Prior to this, you may receive a conditional offer of study until you meet/are able to provide proof of academic / other qualifications etc.
more about undergraduate entry requirements at UWS
If you are a student from either an EU or non-EU country, a country where English is not your main language, you will also be required to meet our English language requirements.
more about English language entry requirements at UWS
Please note that you must be able to provide original copies of your degree certificate(s) and academic transcript(s) plus official translations of these in English.
Step 3: Documents
Ensure that you have copies of all the documents required for your application. These include:
- Original copies of your degree certificate(s) and academic transcript(s) plus official translations of these documents in English
- English language proficiency test certificates
- A signed academic reference on headed paper
- CV in English
- Proof of funding (if required)
- Passport
- Visa/CAS statement (if held)
Step 4: Personal statement
You are required to submit a personal statement as part of the UWS undergraduate application process. This is to demonstrate your motivation to study your chosen course at UWS. Points that you should cover in your personal statement include:
- Why UWS? Why a specific campus? Which other institutions did you consider?
- Why did you choose this course? Did you consider any other courses?
- How does the course content align with your career plans?
- Is this course offered in your home country? If so, why have you decided to study abroad? Why have you chosen the UK, and what are the benefits of studying here rather than your home country?
- If you have had a long break in studies, why are you returning now?
- What are your post-study plans?
Step 5: Submit your application
Once you have prepared everything listed above, you can submit your application through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) or our Online Application System.
See overview section (above) for details of how you should apply depending upon your status (UK, EU, non-EU).
Step 6: Scholarships and funding
UWS offer partial scholarships for international students so make sure you check your eligibility.
more about funding opportunities for international students at UWS
Step 7: Application processing
After you submit your application, we will send you an email confirming that we have received your application. You will also be given log-in details for the system so that you can track your application.
Step 8: Decision time
Once your application has been processed, we will contact you by email to confirm if it has been successful. This will include guidance on how to accept an offer and fee payment if required.
The Admissions team will make one of the following decisions:
- Unconditional offer: if you already meet the necessary entry requirements
- Conditional offer: if you have not met the necessary entry requirements, your offer will contain details of the conditions you are required to meet for an unconditional offer to be made
- Unsuccessful: if you are not considered to be suitably qualified
Step 9: Prepare for UWS
Once you have accepted your unconditional offer, it is important to prepare for life and study at UWS.
Admissions Procedure
The UWS Admissions Procedure has been developed to provide transparency in the admissions processes and practices of University of the West of Scotland, ensuring that a quality service is given to all applicants.
Our priority for admissions is to match prospective students with the programme of study that best meets their needs, whilst ensuring that our institutional strategic objectives are met. We are committed to ensuring that our approach to the admissions of students is transparent, fair, honest, consistent, accessible, personalised and timely.
Criminal Convictions
UWS is committed to fairness and transparency in its application process. As part of our responsibility towards students and staff, all applicants and enrolled students, should disclose relevant, unspent criminal convictions.
Last updated: 16/01/2025