Find the right source
UCAS, SLC and HESA: who does what?
CourseToJob editorial team · Reviewed · Our editorial method
The quick answer
Use UCAS for undergraduate application guidance, the relevant student finance service for funding, HESA and Discover Uni to understand higher education data, and GOV.UK for official immigration guidance. Ask the university about the exact course, offer and fees. CourseToJob helps you connect that research to a study plan and career preparation.
UCAS · Applying to university
“Where do I apply, and when?”
UCAS explains the undergraduate application process, offers and relevant deadlines. Different course types can have different routes or deadlines, so check the guidance for your actual course and start year.
Before opening an application, compare the course content and entry requirements. For postgraduate study and other routes, confirm with the university how it accepts applications.
SLC and national finance services · Funding
“Which student finance service should I use?”
The Student Loans Company administers student loans and grants. Your application route depends on your circumstances, including where you normally live. Studying at an English university does not, by itself, mean you should apply through Student Finance England.
Start with the official funding route and check eligibility before relying on a loan. Fee status, nationality, residence, the course and previous study can matter. A home-fee decision is not, by itself, confirmation of a maintenance loan.
HESA, Discover Uni and DfE · Evidence
“What do graduate outcomes actually measure?”
HESA publishes higher education statistics. Discover Uni explains the data it presents to prospective students, including student surveys and graduate outcomes. Read the population, date, grouping and limitations before comparing numbers.
LEO earnings and the Graduate Outcomes survey are different measures. CourseToJob currently uses a saved Department for Education LEO extract for historical subject earnings; it does not have the HESA 15-month employment extract loaded. A missing figure is not zero.
Our subject medians are not university rankings, international-student forecasts or a promised starting salary. A subject’s one-year and five-year figures also describe different graduating cohorts, not the same person’s pay progression.
GOV.UK and the university · Immigration
“Does my offer let me study or work in the UK?”
A course offer and permission to enter or remain in the UK are separate matters. Use GOV.UK to check the Student visa requirements that apply to your situation, including the course, evidence, money and permitted activities.
Your university’s international team can explain its sponsorship and documentation process. Check current official rules before paying or making travel plans. CourseToJob’s guides signpost sources; they do not assess individual immigration eligibility.
The university · Your exact programme
“Who can confirm my course and its total cost?”
Contact the admissions team for the specific award, campus and intake. Give the full title of your qualification, results and intended start date. Ask for written clarification when a requirement or fee basis is unclear.
- Are my qualifications and prerequisite subjects accepted for this programme?
- Which modules, placement opportunities and accreditation apply to this intake?
- Is the fee annual or for the whole course? Can later-year fees increase?
- What do the deposit and refund terms say, including if my plans change?
- Which accommodation, disability and careers support is available?
These are CourseToJob’s editorial research prompts. Find an institution’s profile and official website, then record the answer and source in your programme shortlist.
CourseToJob · Connect the decisions
“What can I do here?”
Explore subjects and career examples, compare available historical earnings, research a small selection of sourced programmes and create a study budget. When you are preparing for work, build a CV, write a cover letter and track applications.
CourseToJob is an independent publication. It does not submit admissions, finance or visa applications, endorse a university, or determine your eligibility. Official service names in this guide identify sources; they do not imply a partnership.
Common questions
Is CourseToJob part of UCAS or the government?
No. CourseToJob is an independent publication owned by Elite Digital AI Solutions Ltd. It provides research guides and browser-based planning and CV tools. It does not decide admissions, student finance or immigration applications.
Is student finance the same across the UK?
No. England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different application routes and rules. Start with the official guidance for your circumstances and where you normally live, rather than choosing a funding service solely by your university’s location.
Can graduate earnings tell me which university is best?
CourseToJob’s LEO figures describe historical subject groups. They do not rank universities or predict your salary. Check what each measure covers and combine it with course content, costs, support and your own priorities.
Does an international course offer guarantee a visa or funding?
No. Admission, fee status, student finance, scholarships and immigration have separate requirements. Confirm each decision with the responsible university, funding provider or official immigration service.
The links above point to the organisations responsible for the information. Their requirements and services can change. For an action affecting your application or funding, read the current official page and confirm your circumstances with the relevant team.