UCAS Conservatoires: when to apply

Deadlines for applications

2024 entry applications

Your application should be with us by one of these dates to ensure consideration by the conservatoires:

• 2 October 2023, 18:00 (UK time) – for music courses.
• 31 January 2024, 18:00 (UK time) – for most undergraduate dance, drama or musical theatre courses. Check conservatoire websites for deadlines.

2025 entry applications

Applications for 2025 entry courses open from 10 July 2024. Your application should be with us by one of these dates to ensure consideration by the conservatoires:

• 2 October 2024, 18:00 (UK time) – for music courses.
• 29 January 2025, 18:00 (UK time) – for most undergraduate dance, drama or musical theatre courses. Check conservatoire websites for deadlines.

International and EU students

• Many conservatoires will continue to accept applications from international students until later in the year, nearer the beginning of the course. Just contact the conservatoire first before you apply to check they will consider your application.
• Don’t leave it too late though, because if you do get a place, you’ll still need to arrange a visa and your accommodation.

What needs to be done by these dates?

You’ll need to leave enough time to complete your application, resolve any queries and make sure it reaches us by the deadline. Later, after you find courses and you’re ready to apply, we’ll explain everything in more detail, but here’s an overview.

1. Fill in your details, qualifications, and course choices.
2. Write a personal statement to demonstrate you’ll be a good student.
3. Pay your application and audition fees.

Your application will also require an academic and practical reference to be sent by email to each conservatoire. 

​How to meet entry requirements

As well as an assessment and/or interview, each course has different requirements you should have or be working towards in school or college – usually a mix of qualifications, subjects or exam grades. As such, many applicants apply during their final year at school or college.

• When you try to find courses you’ll need to check the entry requirements so you can apply for courses you have a good chance of getting a place on.
• This is where the option to apply for up to six courses comes in handy, so you can choose courses with different entry requirements.

International and EU students

• There are assessment locations around the world, but if you can’t attend any, you might be able to send in a video or recording instead.
• You can use equivalent international qualifications that you’ve already completed, or that you’re still studying now – allowing you to apply earlier in the year.
• You’ll also need to demonstrate your English language skills.

Mature students

Don’t worry if you don’t have the right qualifications. You can discuss alternatives with conservatoires, such as taking an Access course, or getting accreditation for prior learning, life experience or work experience.