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Selection

Once you’ve applied to us your application will be considered by one of our highly trained admissions selectors. Our Admissions Policy outlines our approach to decision making, which is based on the key principles of fairness and transparency.

Our courses are highly competitive, so it isn’t possible to make an offer to everyone who applies, even if you have achieved or are predicted to achieve our entry requirements. 

Because we are committed to selecting applicants with merit, potential and motivation to make the best of the many and varied opportunities available at Durham, selectors will look at your whole application, not just your qualifications, including:

  • Your personal statement 
  • Your reference 
  • Evidence of relevant and transferrable skills 
  • Any special circumstances affecting your application

If you receive an offer, this will either be conditional or unconditional and will be sent to you by UCAS.

Unconditional offers are given if you have achieved our entry requirements or otherwise satisfied the selector that you have the merit and potential to succeed at Durham. 

Conditional offers are given if you have yet to complete your academic qualifications. It’s important that you read the conditions of your offer so you know how to meet them. You may need to achieve a specific grade in one or more subjects, for example. If you have any questions about your offer, you can Ask Us.

Referral Offers 

Sometimes we might make you an offer for a course that you haven’t applied for. We do this when your application might not be as strong as those of other applicants, but we still think that you demonstrate the merit and potential to succeed at Durham. While we won't be able to reconsider you for the course you originally applied for, we hope you take the time to learn more about the course you've been made an offer for, as it still provides a great opportunity to study at Durham.

Decision-Making Timeline 

While we try and make decisions on applications quickly, sometimes the volume of applications we receive means we may take a little longer. If you apply before 31 January 2024 then you should hear from us no later than 29 March 2024. As soon as we've made a decision, you'll see this in your UCAS Hub.

Our Post Offer Visit Days take place in February and March. If you are made an offer and aren't able to attend, we'll let you know of other opportunities that are available, both to visit in person or virtually.