UCAS events are designed to help you explore your options once you’ve finished your A Levels or BTEC. You’ll find out more about a range of universities and the courses they offer and have plenty of opportunities to ask questions about your next steps. We know there’s a lot to think about, so read on to find out how to make the most of a UCAS event.
By Grant Longstaff. Published 23 Feburary 2026.
Before you go to a UCAS event
A UCAS event is an opportunity for you to find out more about the universities and degree courses you’re interested in. You’ll be able to speak to university staff, and sometimes students, about everything to do with life at university.
However, to make the most of the event you’ll need to do a little preparation beforehand. First of all, you’ll need to think about the following:
- What subject would you like to study?
- Do you have any universities in mind?
- What are your predicted grades?
Don’t wait until the event to identify the universities offering the courses you’re interested in. A little research ahead of time means you can prioritise the stands for those institutions on the day.
UCAS event questions
A UCAS event is the perfect opportunity for you to ask questions, so preparing some ahead of time is a good way of ensuring you get the answers you need. Take some time before the event to jot down some of the most important questions you have. These might include:
- What kind of work will I do on the course?
- How will I be assessed?
- What modules will I cover? Are there optional modules?
- Are there opportunities beyond the course, such as placements or work experience?
- What does the course timetable look like?
- What does the university look for in UCAS applications?
- What kind of careers do graduates of this course move in to?
- What kind of support is available? (academic, personal, career support etc.)
- What facilities are available on campus?
- What is student life like at your university?
Remember, these are just an idea of what you could ask. It’s essential you ask the questions which are important to you so you can make the most informed decision about which university you choose.
UCAS Event: On the day
Get your bearings
When you first arrive at a UCAS event it can be tempting to rush to speak to the university you’re most interested in. However, it might be a good idea to take a quick walk around first so you can get a feel for the event and locate all the stands you want to speak with.
Speak to staff and students
Once you’ve got your bearings you can approach the universities which most interest you. If there are university staff and current students, consider speaking to both. Questions about the course and assessments might be better answered by staff, whereas students might provide more practical insight into student life and living away from home.
Whilst you’ve prepared some questions it’s also worth reminding yourself that these can change on the day. A conversation might open up an avenue you’d not previously considered. Ask anything and everything you might want to. Don’t just stick to your prepared list.
Take notes
You’ll be given a lot of information at a UCAS fair, so it’s important to take a few minutes after each stall to make some notes on what you’ve learned. Whether it’s pen and paper or a note in your phone, being able to look back at the key findings can help you at a later stage and means you don’t have to worry about forgetting anything important.
Be flexible
If you’ve got a number of universities in mind it’s ok to prioritise their stands above others. That said, it’s important to remain open minded on the day. Take the opportunity to speak with universities you might not have considered and learn more about their courses. You never know, you could discover the perfect course at a place you didn’t even know existed.
Take a breath
You don’t need to rush from stand to stand. It’s perfectly fine to take a few minutes between each university to make some notes, reflect on the conversation or simply catch your breath. Take a minute to recharge before diving back in.
Check in with family or friends
If you attend a UCAS event with family or friends it can be beneficial to check in with them at regular intervals, even if it’s just to share what you’ve learned and plan your next step at the event. Ask for their support and encouragement if you need it and off yours in return. Even if you’re on own you could step outside and call someone to have a quick debrief. Talking things through is another way of remembering and retaining what you find out.
Revisit stands if necessary
If you missed your chance to ask a crucial question, or a new query presents itself over the course of the event, it’s absolutely fine to go back and revisit a stand. Remember, everyone is there to help and wants you to leave as informed and prepared as possible.
After a UCAS event
You’ll have a lot to consider after a UCAS event. Take the time to reflect on everything you’ve discovered. Review your notes, discuss your options with family and evaluate what you’ve learned. The next step is writing your UCAS application and choosing the universities which best suit your future goals.
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