How to get into university: A step-by-step guide to the university application process (STEM edition)

Applying to university can be both exciting and challenging, especially for those considering STEM programmes. The competitive nature of STEM programmes means it is crucial to approach the application process with a clear strategy. This guide will walk you through each step, from selecting the right degree to creating strong applications and tackling interviews and entrance exams.

Step 1: Choose a STEM degree

Starting on the path towards a STEM degree can be daunting, but the key first step is to narrow down your choices. Here’s how to approach this effectively:

Narrowing down your interests

Start by identifying what excites you most within STEM. Whether it’s exploring galaxies, understanding biological systems, or delving into mathematical theories, pinpointing your passion will help you in your decision. For example, if space fascinates you, consider astrophysics; if you’re intrigued by microorganisms, microbiology might be your path. There are lots of STEM degrees to choose from, so if you need more guidance on the different options, read our article: What is a STEM degree and why should you choose one?

If you are unsure of what motivates you, career-satisfaction studies have shown that pursuing a path that helps others can be a great option. If personal interest won’t drive you, then the belief that your role benefits the world can!

Choosing the right university

Once you’ve pinpointed your interests, research universities that excel in your field of interest. While rankings like those from the Guardian and The Complete University Guide offer a general quality overview, they should not be your sole focus. These rankings are based on various criteria that may not align with your priorities. Below is a checklist to help you navigate your options when choosing a STEM degree:

Beyond rankings and programme details, consider whether you prefer a campus-based university with a close-knit community or a city university offering vibrant urban opportunities. Additionally, think about the location’s impact on your experience, such as proximity to home, cost of living and climate. University open days can be a great way for you to get a feel for the university and ask questions face-to-face.

Choosing the right mode of study

In addition to university courses varying by the content covered, they may differ by how they are delivered – the mode of study.

In-person or online?

Some courses provide in-person teaching, others are conducted online, and many offer a blended learning approach, combining both online and in-person teaching.

When choosing the right mode of study, several factors should be considered:

• Available study modes for your course: Some courses may offer several modes to choose from, while others might only provide one option
• Effectiveness for your subject: Consider which mode will be most effective for mastering your specific subject, for example chemistry students may benefit from in-person lab sessions, while a theoretical subject like philosophy might be effectively studied online
• Career requirements: Determine if a particular mode of study is necessary for your STEM career aspirations

It is often helpful to draw up a pros and cons table to evaluate which mode of study aligns most with your personal needs and preferences.

 

Mode of study	Pros	Cons
In-person	Easier to motivate yourself Develop practical skills Opportunity to network Collaborative tasks Encourages productivity	Must move to attend university or limit your options by location Travel costs Difficult to fit around other commitments
Online	Location flexibility No travel costs Fits around commitments Demonstrates self-motivation	May miss out on practical elements Less coursemate interaction Harder to ask questions Requires good electronics and internet connection
Blended learning	Benefits of both learning styles Prevents one mode of study from becoming repetitive	Harder to keep track of which sessions use which mode of study Still need to move to be close to the university

Full-time or part-time?

Many courses can also be taken either full-time or part-time. However, most students automatically apply for a full-time course, often unaware of the part-time options available.

Part-time courses take longer than a traditional bachelor’s or master’s degree, spreading out the course to accommodate other commitments. This option can be ideal if you:

• Need to work alongside your degree
• Have caregiving commitments
• Manage a time-consuming health condition
• Have any other time-consuming commitment
• Struggle with intense workloads and prefer a more manageable pace

 

Investigating the faculty specialisations

Delve into the specialisations of the faculty members within the departments you are interested in. Each university’s course content will differ to match the research areas of their lecturers and programme leads. Therefore, if you’re considering astrophysics, look for a department with renowned astrophysicists and state-of-the-art research facilities. Similarly, if you are interested in epigenetics, look for a biochemistry course run by epigenetic specialists.

 

For more insights on selecting the right university course, refer to our university guide’s article on how to choose a university course.

Step 2: Check the entry requirements

Understanding the entry requirements for STEM degrees is crucial for a successful application. These entry requirements can vary greatly between different STEM courses and universities, so it’s important to check the requirements of specific universities on their course pages. Despite this, there are some common themes to consider:

Academic qualifications needed

A Levels: Most STEM programmes require at least one A Level in a science subject such as biology, chemistry or physics. Engineering, maths and technical courses often require a Maths A Level and sometimes an additional science subject. Additionally, for science A Levels, passing the practical components is often essential as some programmes explicitly require these skills.

International Baccalaureate (IB): For IB Diploma students, most STEM degrees require Higher Level (HL) courses in maths and/or relevant sciences. Typically, you’ll need to achieve a minimum grade of 5 or 6 in these subjects. Achieving a satisfactory level in the practical components of science subjects is often essential, as some programmes specifically require proficiency in laboratory work.

Scottish Highers: In Scotland, many STEM programmes require Highers in maths and/or science-based subjects. Each programme may specify minimum grades for these subjects. For more competitive programmes, Advanced Highers may be required or beneficial.

GCSEs: Many programmes also consider your GCSEs. Typically, you need a minimum grade of 4 in English and maths. For some STEM courses, especially if you did not take STEM subjects at A Level (or equivalent), universities may look for higher GCSE grades, such as 6s or 7s in the sciences and maths. Note that moving onto STEM courses without STEM Level 3 qualifications (such as A Levels) is often not a viable option, so always check specific course requirements.

Vocational qualifications: If you’re applying with vocational qualifications like BTECs or T Levels, ensure they are in relevant subjects and meet the programme’s criteria. For STEM degrees, qualifications in Engineering or Applied Science are often favourable. Admission to more reputable and traditional university courses from vocational qualifications can vary. Therefore, it is crucial to review the specific entry requirements of each university to determine if your vocational qualification will be recognised.

If you are concerned you may not meet the entry requirements for a course of interest, you can consider foundation courses. These lead to the degree you are interested in but provide an introductory year so have lower entry requirements. More information on these can be found in our bachelor’s degree article.

Advanced and postgraduate degrees

For advanced or postgraduate STEM degrees, relevant work experience or internships might be required or recommended. This experience helps demonstrate your practical skills and dedication to the field. Additionally, some programmes require a specific grade in a relevant undergraduate degree, often a 2:1 or a First. Check these requirements for your intended postgraduate degree programme.

Language requirements

International students need to meet English language proficiency standards, typically demonstrated through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL or CEFR. Ensure you meet the required scores to be eligible for your chosen course.

By thoroughly understanding these entry requirements, you can better prepare your application and address any gaps in your qualifications. Entry requirements also help determine if a course is suitable for you. Since you often apply to universities before knowing your final grades, it is important to choose courses with a range of entry requirements, some more accessible and others more ambitious. For additional details, refer to our guide on predicted grades and entry requirements.

Step 3: Write a STEM personal statement for your university application

Starting in September 2025, UCAS undergraduate personal statements will adopt a new format where applicants must respond to three specific questions, replacing the previous approach that allowed complete freedom in writing. This change aims to level the playing field for disadvantaged students.

The most important piece of advice is to add personal touches to your statement. It should represent who you are and be unique. Admissions officers read many applications and will value something that stands out!

Postgraduate applications often require personal statements too. These should emphasise academic background, career goals, and research interests, unlike undergraduate applications which focus more on motivation, academic interests, and extracurriculars. The application process for postgraduate programs may also differ, not always using UCAS. See below for a detailed comparison of undergraduate, master’s and PhD applications.

Below we will provide tips for STEM applicants on how to effectively answer the three questions UCAS will include in the new personal statement. This guidance is still valuable if you’re applying before the September 2025 update or as a postgraduate applicant, as addressing these questions will be essential regardless.

Question 1: Why do you want to study this course or subject?

As a STEM student, your motivation to study your chosen subject should be deeply rooted in both a passion for the field and a clear understanding of where it can lead you. When answering this question, you could:

• Showcase your passion. Describe what first sparked your interest in the subject. Was it a specific experiment, book, documentary, or project you completed? Even if there wasn’t a single defining moment, sharing the experiences that deepened your love for the subject can help demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm. Vague statements like ‘I love Chemistry’ or ‘I find computers fascinating’ won’t be enough.
• Demonstrate subject knowledge and wider reading. Highlight specific areas within the subject that fascinate you. Mention any relevant topics, theories, or discoveries that you find particularly intriguing and explain why you find them so interesting. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate wider learning outside the classroom.
• Highlight your future ambitions. Connect your passion to your career aspirations. Discuss how studying this course aligns with your long-term goals. Whether you aim to contribute to research, work in a particular industry, or solve specific problems, make your ambitions clear.

Question 2: How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

Your academic background is a crucial component of your preparation for a STEM course. It’s important to focus this section on specific subjects that are directly related to your chosen field. For example, if you’re applying for engineering, your main focus should be on achievements in physics and maths. Here’s how to effectively address this question:

• Reflect on transferable skills. Discuss the skills you’ve developed through your studies that will be beneficial in your chosen course. These might include problem-solving, analytical thinking, laboratory skills, programming, data analysis, or specific technical skills.
• Showcase projects and assignments. Mention any significant projects, lab work, or assignments you have completed that are relevant to the course. This could include an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Explain what you learned from these experiences and what challenges you overcame. Reflect on how this has helped prepare you for higher-level study.
• Highlight your achievements. If you have received any awards or high grades in relevant subjects, be sure to mention them. These can serve as evidence of your aptitude and dedication to the subject.

Question 3: What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences helpful?

STEM fields often place a high value on practical experience and extracurricular involvement. Universities generally prefer extracurriculars that relate to your chosen field of study. Not sure what counts? Check out our guide on relevant STEM extracurricular activities. Once you’ve gathered your experiences, you’ll be prepared to address this question effectively.

Here’s how to present your out-of-classroom activities:

• Detail any work experience and internships undertaken. Include internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work relevant to your chosen field. Explain what you learned from these experiences and how they have prepared you for the course.
• Discuss involvement in extracurricular activities. Highlight your participation in science clubs, technology and coding competitions, and/or summer schools to demonstrate your broader commitment to the subject. It’s also acceptable to mention non-subject-related activities, such as student leadership roles, but always connect these back to the skills relevant to your chosen field.
• Describe any personal projects undertaken. Provide details on personal projects, such as building a website, creating a social media platform to share content related to your subject, or conducting independent research. Emphasise the creativity and problem-solving skills these projects demonstrate as well as the initiative and self-motivation they require.
• Mention participation in conferences and workshops. Include any conferences, workshops, or online courses, such as MOOCs, that can show your proactive approach to learning and staying current in your field. Share specific insights or skills gained from these experiences.
• Discuss hobbies and interests. Universities desire well-rounded individuals, so don’t forget to include any other hobbies and interests you may have outside of STEM, such as playing a musical instrument, involvement in a sport, or learning a language. Universities love students who can contribute to the community as a whole. Participating in these activities is part of that, so sell yourself as someone who can bring a lot to the university environment.

 

By responding to these three questions using the above tips, you can showcase your love for your STEM subject, academic background, and extracurricular experiences. Remember to provide details of, and reflect on, each experience:

• What did you learn?
• What challenges did you overcome?
• Did others benefit from your actions?

By delving into each experience, you can emphasise how you make the most of your opportunities and demonstrate your genuine participation.

Finally, your teachers will provide academic references for your application, so use your time with teachers, tutors or lecturers as another opportunity to show your dedication and enthusiasm. For more information and advice on writing your personal statement, see our article on personal statements in our university guide.

Step 4: How to get into university with interviews and entrance exams

In STEM fields, interviews and entrance exams are designed to assess your technical skills and problem–solving abilities. These can differ significantly from interviews in the arts, where the focus might be more on creativity or conceptual understanding.

STEM interviews: What to expect

During a STEM interview, you can expect to face technical questions and problem-solving tasks. Interviewers may ask you to solve complex problems, apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, or discuss recent developments in your field. For instance, you might be given a set of data to analyse or a physics problem to solve on the spot. The goal is to see how you approach problems, think critically, and apply your knowledge practically.
In addition to technical questions, interviews often include other types of questions. Here are some commonly asked ones:

• Why have you chosen to study this subject? See question 1 in the personal statement section above for advice on answering this question. It’s good practice to refer to your personal statement; you should have already answered this question there.
• Why did you choose to apply to this university? Become familiar with the university’s technological facilities and research opportunities. Being able to mention their newly refurbished labs, current research projects, or unique resources can help demonstrate that you are genuinely interested in what they offer.
• In your personal statement, you mentioned that you read…, what was the most interesting thing you learned from that book/article? Interviewers are specialists in their fields and are likely to have read the book or article you referenced in your personal statement. Be ready to discuss anything you mentioned, as they may ask you questions about it.

The most important aspect of interviews is preparation. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. Consider asking a teacher or family member to conduct a mock interview with you. Even if they can’t provide technical questions, you can work through the 15 most common university interview questions to become more comfortable with your responses.

Resources for technical questions similar to those you might face in the interview include:

• Briliant.org
• Isaac Physics
• Olympiad past papers
  • Chemistry Olympiad
  • Biology Olympiad
  • Physics Olympiad
  • Maths Olympiad
• Cambridge Chemistry Challenge

Practising your answers to these questions by speaking them aloud in front of a mirror, explaining them to an inanimate object like a plant pot, or recording yourself and reviewing the footage are all effective methods for improving your ability to articulate your thoughts, even if it feels a bit awkward!

An interview provides a chance to showcase your enthusiasm for the subject and your confidence in discussing relevant topics. Contrary to the common misconception, interviewers aren’t looking to catch you out; they truly want you to succeed. Most interviewers are more focused on your learning ability and how you might engage as a student, rather than how much you already know. Therefore, the best approach is to enter with an open mind, be enthusiastic, and give it your best effort.

For more information on interviews, see our article dedicated to university interview preparation.

What STEM entrance exams are there?

There are a variety of entrance exams you might be required to take, depending on the university and course you apply for. Their structures vary, with some being online and others in person, some consisting of multiple assessments, and others being a single exam. Below is a comprehensive list of STEM entrance exams with links to more information on each one.

Medicine entrance exams

The medicine entrance exam you’ll need to take will depend on the university you’re applying to and what their medical or dental school asks for. There are two main exams for medicine:

• University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT), used for regular medicine degrees for non-degree holders
• Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT), used for students applying to study medicine on fast-track graduate entry programmes

For more information, read our guide to medical admissions tests.

Oxford entrance exams

The University of Oxford has their own entrance exams for certain STEM subjects:

• Biomedical Sciences Admissions Test (BMSAT) for biomedical sciences
• Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT) for maths and computer science
• Physics Admissions Test (PAT) for physics, engineering and materials science
• Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) for economics and human sciences

Cambridge entrance exams

The University of Cambridge has their own entrance exams for certain STEM subjects:

• Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP) for maths
• Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) for chemical engineering and biotechnology, engineering, natural sciences and veterinary medicine
• Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA) for computer science and economics

Note that University of Warwick and Imperial College London ask maths applicants to sit the TMUA entrance exam, or alternatively they consider students who have taken STEP entrance exam

 

What are the differences between undergraduate, master’s and PhD applications?

Each level of academic study requires distinct application processes and components. The following table highlights these differences, providing a clear comparison of the requirements and expectations for bachelor’s, master’s and PhD applications.

	Undergraduate application	Master’s application	PhD application
Application platform	Usually through UCAS or similar centralised systems (an alternative for non-UK students); few universities accept direct applications	UCAS Postgraduate or direct to universities	Typically direct to universities or through specific PhD application platforms
Application components	Academic transcripts, personal statement, references	Academic transcripts, personal statement, references, and sometimes a CV	Academic transcripts, research proposal, personal statement, references, and sometimes a CV
Personal statement	Focuses on motivation, academic interests, and extracurricular activities	Emphasises relevant academic background and career goals	Centres on research interests, proposed project, and fit with the department
Research proposals	Not required	Not required for taught master’s, but needed for research master’s	Essential, detailing the research question, methodology, and objectives
Interviews	Fairly rare, but may occur for more prestigious programmes	Required for certain programmes, especially research master’s	Commonly required, especially to discuss research proposal
References	1 academic reference	Typically 2-3 academic references	Typically 2-3 academic references
Application deadline	Often in January (UCAS) but can vary for individual institutions	Varies by institution or programme, often at multiple points in the year	Varies by institution or programme, often at multiple points in the year
Funding	Scholarships, bursaries, grants and student loans	Employer sponsorship, scholarships, grants and postgraduate loans	Studentships, assistantships (teaching, marking and supporting university), grants and postgraduate loans

FAQs

Do you have to pay to apply to university in 2025?

Yes, there is an application fee when you apply to universities through UCAS in the UK. For the 2025 entry, this fee stands at £28.50 for up to five choices.

How long does it take for a university to respond to an application?

The response time from universities can vary; some may reply within a few days, while others might take several months. The key is to be patient and ensure you meet all the application deadlines.

When is the deadline to apply for university in 2025?

For the 2025 entry, the key UCAS application deadlines are:

• 15 October 2024 (18:00 UK time): Deadline for applications to Oxford, Cambridge, and most courses in medicine, veterinary medicine/science, and dentistry.
• 29 January 2025 (18:00 UK time): The equal consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses is the cut-off for guaranteed evaluation. You can still apply after this date, but some universities may then treat applications on a first-come, first-served basis.

Some courses might have later deadlines, but it’s always best to apply early.

Can I go to university without A Levels?

Yes, you can go to university without A Levels. Universities also accept International Baccalaureate (IB), Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers, and other non-English qualifications. Many universities also accept vocational qualifications such as:

• BTEC Nationals
• Apprenticeships
• T Levels
• NVQs

Each university has its specific entry requirements, so it’s essential to check their guidelines.

Do I need Further Maths A Level to do a maths degree?

A Level Further Maths is not a compulsory requirement for most undergraduate courses, as it’s not available at every sixth form or college. However, it’s important to check the specific entry requirements for your chosen degree to see if it’s needed.

Nevertheless, many top universities and competitive programmes highly value A Level Further Maths due to its challenging and advanced nature, especially for degrees in maths, engineering, and physics.

Can I use ChatGPT to write my personal statement?

UCAS guidelines on artificial intelligence (AI) suggest that generating and copying large parts of your personal statement using an AI tool such as ChatGPT might be viewed as cheating by universities and colleges, potentially reducing your chances of receiving an offer. If your personal statement closely resembles others’ or content found online, UCAS’ anti-plagiarism software may flag it. However, UCAS does indicate that using AI to assist with brainstorming, structuring and phrasing is acceptable.

Who can be a reference for a university application?

A reference for a university application should be from someone who knows you academically. If you are currently in education or have recently been in education, this should be a teacher, tutor, head teacher, or careers advisor.

If you are applying as an independent candidate, you can use an employer or someone in a professional capacity who knows you well. These types of references can vary by institution, so it’s important to contact your chosen universities for guidance on the type of reference required.

Will my university interview be online?

Whether your university interview will be online or in person depends on the university and the course you are applying for. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many universities have adopted online interviews as a standard practice. However, some may offer in-person interviews or a choice between the two. It’s best to check directly with the university for their current interview format.

 

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