Elsewhere on Ulster
Higher Education (HE) allows students to study at an advanced level, typically after the age of 18.
Higher Education (HE) offers advanced study options after age 18 at universities and colleges across Northern Ireland, with full-time and part-time routes available.
Courses include degrees, Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), foundation degrees, and access programmes. Students can progress to postgraduate study, such as a Master’s or PhD.
Higher Education develops specialist knowledge, builds career-ready skills and supports long-term employment opportunities.
Choosing a university is a significant step, and having access to the right information and support can make that journey feel more manageable.
Across Northern Ireland, universities offer a range of support for care experienced students, with dedicated contacts and services available to provide guidance before, during and throughout university life.
Most applications to Higher Education are made through UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). UCAS is a central application system for universities and colleges across the UK. It allows applicants, and those supporting them, to explore courses, submit applications and track progress in one place.
Guidance and support are available throughout the process to help people make informed decisions about their next steps. UCAS is at the heart of connecting people to Higher Education with a mission to:
“Create value for members through shared services; and deliver admissions services that help applicants make the right choices, for the right reasons and with the right outcomes”
UCAS also run several specialist application services – GTTR (Graduate Teacher Training Registry), UKPASS (UK Postgraduate Application and Statistical Service) and CUKAS (Conservatoires UK Admissions Service).
Not all courses are applied for through UCAS. Some institutions require direct applications.
Applications to St Mary’s University College and the Open University are made directly through the institution. In Further Education Regional Colleges, some Higher Education courses use UCAS, but most are applied for directly through the college.
Entry requirements outline the qualifications and grades needed for a course.These vary depending on the course and institution, and may include specific subjects or grade requirements. It is important to check the entry criteria for each course before applying.
Support is available to care experienced students, including help with finances, accommodation and settling into university or college life.
An independent organisation that supports children and young people across the Republic of Ireland who are in care or have care experience. This includes those in residential care, foster care, hostels, and high support or special care settings. EPIC also supports young people as they prepare to leave care and move into aftercare.
For those applying to study in the Republic of Ireland as an EU student, most undergraduate applications are made through the Central Applications Office (CAO), unless stated otherwise.
The CAO provides information on available courses and guidance on how to apply. Applications are submitted online.
This section highlights universities in Northern Ireland and the support available for care experienced students. Each institution offers different services, including financial support, accommodation and dedicated staff to help throughout the student journey.
