University Admissions (to a Physics degree) (Based on what we do in Liverpool)

1. University Admissions (to a Physics degree) (Based on what we do in Liverpool) Paul Nolan Department of Physics, University of Liverpool Description of the cycle that will lead to admission in Sept 2010 The majority of Physics department will follow a similar process

2. All Universities have a quota for the number Home undergraduate students Financial penalty if this is exceeded University wants a mix of: Band A: Medicine etc. Band B: Physics, Chemistry etc. Band C: Mathematics, Computer Science etc. Band D: Arts and Humanities Physics is set a quota (or target) for student numbers This can be managed based on applications, particularly within otherScience subjects

3. Late 2008 / Early 2009 Prospectus complete: Includes the programmes on offer Includes likely A level grade offers or offer range March – September 2009 NOW Prepare material / presentations for Open days, School visits etc. October 2009 to February 2010 Receive and process UCAS forms

4. What happens to the forms? First processed by the Central University Admissions group then Passed to the Physics Admissions tutor (on paper!) All application forms are read in detail All applications are considered, first for basic qualifications: GCSE English, Maths Is the student doing Physics at A level?

5. All applicants are invited to come to a visit day Wednesdays and one Saturday Based on our offer range and the information on the UCAS form students applying for a three year degree are given an offer. Offer can be conditional or unconditional Students applying a a four year physics degree are made an offer after they have attended a visit day This is based on a recommendation from an “interview” with the student on the day

6. What are we looking for on the UCAS form? Clear statement of ALL previous examination results: GCSE and AS (A1) Clear predictions from the school of likely A level grades Information in the personal statement that gives us an idea of: Why the student wants to study physics Which aspects of physics are most exciting Some personal experiences of Science / Physics Some personal interests / information Remember entry to the majority of physics programmes is based on A level performance Other qualifications also considered on an equal basis

7. What happens next? Once a student has all their offers they can hold two offers: One Firmly accepted CF or UF One Conditionally accepted CI In June 2010 the University looks at all of its (conditional) acceptances and starts the process to decide which programmes may not fill. Then discussions start about deciding a minimum entry level for these programmes.

8. August 2010 Results are published on a Thursday University receives the results on the previous Sunday Decisions are made for all departments about who will be accepted among those holding Liverpool as first or second choice. UCAS informed All those who get the grades asked for will be accepted Others may be accepted if there is space Some subjects will go into Clearing – decision Monday morning

9. Thursday in August Results and Clearing UCAS know if a student has been accepted, try UCAS track system If you hold an offer try the University confirmation line, staff there will have the information on whether a place has been allocated UCAS Adjustment New system this year (2009) for those holding CF who have achieved or exceeded their offer grades Interesting to see how this will work

10. If a place is still needed ring the Clearing line, staff will know if the grades will be accepted. It is best if the student rings or is at least available If in doubt ask to speak to the Physics Admissions tutors, who will be available. Definitely need to talk to the student at this stage Try more than one University Ring early, this is normally a very busy day. Decide early to ensure the student gets into the University systems for accommodation etc.

11. Remember Physics departments are keen to get the best students Phone calls or contacts from teachers and students are very welcome