UCAS (University and College Admission Service) is the central application service for full-time undergraduate courses in the UK. Last year UCAS handled more than 460,000 student applications.

Advantages of using UCAS apply:

• UCAS applicants are those who apply to full-time, undergraduate higher education courses offered by universities or colleges in membership of the UCAS scheme.

• The text for your personal statement and reference can be copied and pasted into your application.

• You can check details that you have entered at any time.

• You can print and preview your application.

• Your application will normally be processed within one working day of its receipt at UCAS.

• An applicant's age (in years) at the end of the September before entry to higher education. Usually presented in detail (Age 11 categories) or summarised into broad age bands (Age 4 categories).

• Each applicant may make up to six applications to different courses and/or institutions. The application fee for this service is £15 sterling for more than one choice, or £5 sterling for a single choice.

• UCAS also produces a booklet, How to apply 2006 entry, which is a step-by-step guide to Completing your application form. You will automatically receive a copy of this booklet you order an application form.