Choosing the right UCAS courses is one of the most important steps in your UK university application. With over 35,000 courses available through UCAS, narrowing down your five choices can feel overwhelming. But with a structured approach, IB students can make confident, informed decisions that align with their grades, interests, and career goals.
Step 1: Understand How Many Choices You Have
Through UCAS, you can apply to:
- Up to 5 courses in total.
- For medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science, you can only apply to 4 courses, with a 5th option in a different subject if you wish.
This means you’ll need to be strategic—every choice matters.
Step 2: Match Courses to Your Predicted Grades
- Universities often list IB requirements as a total points score (e.g., 36 points) and higher-level subject scores (e.g., 6 in HL Biology).
- Compare your IB predicted grades with these requirements to ensure your choices are realistic.
- Always include a balance of aspirational, target, and safe choices.
Step 3: Research Universities and Course Structures
Not all courses with the same name are identical. Look at:
- Modules offered – Two “History” degrees may have very different module focuses.
- Assessment methods – Some rely more on exams, others on coursework.
- Year abroad or work placements – Check if the course offers international or professional opportunities.
UCAS’s course search tool is the best place to start your research (UCAS Course Search).
