How can we help?

No – it is entirely optional to give this information – you do not have to let the university or college know if you don’t want to. However, we recommend that you do, so they can understand the context of your achievements and make sure you know about any support that can help you during your studies. Even if you don’t feel you need any extra support now, you may feel differently later on. 

If you prefer, you can contact the university or college directly to discuss your circumstances and talk about any support you might need. If you have any questions, they will be happy to give you more detailed information and advice at any time before or after you apply. You could also ask someone at your school or college, or local carers organisation, to help you with this. 

No. This question is for someone who provides unpaid care to a family member or friend.

If you are (or have been) in care, there's a separate question on the application where you can give this information.

This information is shared (securely) with those who are responsible for supporting you at university or college (e.g. the student services team), and it will be treated sensitively.

Knowing about your circumstances may help admissions staff to take your achievements into account when making an offer – it will give them a better understanding of your potential. Sharing this information is never used to decide whether or not to make an offer. The university may get in touch with you to share more details about the support they offer, or to tell you about any events and resources you may find useful to prepare for higher education.

Your information may also be used (anonymously) for monitoring purposes. This helps the university improve the support they provide to other carers in the future.

The information you share with UCAS is kept in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018.

For more information about who your information is shared with, read UCAS’ privacy policy

Balancing your studies with the responsibility of caring for another person can be challenging, so many universities and colleges provide specific support for student carers.

Support could include:

• financial help – e.g. a bursary
• academic assistance – e.g. help to manage your workload
• or even support to manage your health and wellbeing.

When you give this information, you're letting the university know about your circumstances in case you need additional support during your studies. They may get in touch with more information about the support available – and to discuss whether you want to access it. Remember any support provided is designed to ensure you have a fair chance to succeed in your studies.

Knowing about your circumstances may also help admissions staff to take your achievements into account and gain a better understanding of these achievements and potential in context. It won't reflect negatively on your application or academic ability, but instead will enable them to form a more complete picture of you as an individual and identify applicants who have the potential to succeed – even if their personal circumstances have affected their attainment (e.g. exam grades).

We recommend you contact your university as early as possible to discuss your circumstances and any support needs you may have – however small or major they may seem. This will help you to make a smooth transition to university and succeed in your ongoing studies.

Some carers think it isn't worth telling the university or college about their caring responsibilities. However, carers deal with managing their responsibilities alongside their education differently, and you may still need some occasional support – especially if your circumstances change. Some carers also provide large amounts of emotional support, even if they are not giving as much physical or practical care. 

Sometimes situations change, so it’s important to make sure that support is ready when you need it - even if you never do.

Remember that support is provided to ensure you have a fair chance to do well in your studies.