Admissions to courses in the School of Computing

(For academic year 2024/25 only)

This admissions guidance applies to undergraduate courses offered by the School of Computing.

Due to the competitive nature of these courses, the admissions team may take into account a wide variety of factors, which include, but are not limited to, academic performance to date and predicted results for qualifications currently being studied when assessing applications.

Application decisions

We typically receive a high number of applications to our courses in the School of Computing. The number of applicants exceeds the number of places available and so, to ensure that we treat all applications fairly and equitably, we don’t review applications until after the UCAS deadline before making a final decision. 

This is a normal part of our process for these courses and may mean applicants have to wait longer than usual to hear from us. It takes time to thoroughly assess all applications, but we aim to make all decisions by the end of March. 

Offer decisions are made based on an overall review of applications including predicted grades, breadth of knowledge demonstrated through qualifications, personal statement, extra-curricular and work experience, and contextual information. 

We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Applications should arrive at UCAS by 18:00 (UK time) on 31 January 2024. This is our 'equal consideration' deadline, which means we must consider all applications received by this time equally. 

If you are a current University of Leeds student looking to transfer, there is no guarantee you will be considered if you do not contact your School before the deadline.

Personal statements and references

Where the applications we receive show very similar academic achievements and predictions, we may use the personal statement and reference in order to differentiate between applicants.

The criteria for assessment will include:

  • Examples of your enthusiasm for Computing
  • Demonstration of an understanding of the programme
  • Work experience and responsible roles you have adopted
  • Evidence of thinking, problem-solving and technical understanding
  • Demonstration of independent learning and teamwork skills

Interviews 

Interviews do not form part of the School of Computing’s standard admissions process; however, in some cases, an applicant may be invited for an interview if it will help inform whether an offer should be made.  

Candidates may also be asked to sit a Mathematics/Mechanics and/or Physics test alongside an interview in order to assess their current competence. The combination of performance in the test and/or interview will be used alongside the information on the UCAS form when we consider whether to make an offer. 

If applicable, applicants will receive an interview invitation and will be informed in advance if they will be required to sit a test. If invited applicants do not attend, their application will not be considered any further and will be rejected. 

Interview methods may vary depending on the circumstances and/or geographical location of the applicant; for example, interviews may take place on a one to one basis or via video conferencing or telephone. Where possible, we will accommodate requests for alternative interview dates. However, an alternative cannot be guaranteed.

Qualifications taken early

We recognise that some applicants may have studied a more flexible curriculum, where you have been able to progress through your educational development at an appropriate rate according to your ability. Where a Level 2 (for example, GCSE) or Level 3 (for example, A Level) qualification has been taken ‘early’ the academic reference should include the reasons for this so that it can be taken into consideration by the admissions team. 

Resits

We will consider applications from those who are re-taking examinations prior to entering the University. 

Deferral requests 

The School of Computing is not accepting applications for deferred entry; only applications for the coming cycle will be considered.

Advanced entry

Entry on to Level 2 or Level 3 in the School of Computing is not generally permitted.

Internal transfers 

We will consider applications from those who wish to transfer internally from other programmes at the University of Leeds, providing places are available. Applicants are required to make a formal request via email to the admissions team: ugcomp@leeds.ac.uk.

The request should include the following information:  

  • Current programme of study 
  • Grades obtained on current programme of study 
  • Other qualifications held, for example A Levels and GCSEs 
  • Reason for request to transfer 
  • Interest in and knowledge of the subject area and degree programme 

Transfer applicants may be interviewed and, depending on the time of year, may be required to complete their current year to a specified level. Other assessment methods may be implemented for specific courses as outlined on Course Search. Successful applicants will be given an offer that clearly sets out any conditions.

Students wishing to be considered for second year entry should consult the section above for more information on advanced entry.

Decisions and communications with applicants

Unsuccessful applicants who wish to request feedback on the reason for the outcome of their application should do so in line with the Feedback section of the University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy, using the relevant email address contact in the useful contacts and resources section below. Generally, where applicants request feedback on why they have not been admitted, feedback will be given.

Further information

If you have any questions, please e-mail ugcomp@leeds.ac.uk.

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Page published: 14 March 2023
Page last updated: 14 April 2023