Access UCL students

Access UCL was introduced to create an impact for students from underrepresented backgrounds to ensure a level the playing field.

Who are Access UCL students?

Access UCL was introduced to create an impact on the application and enrolment numbers of students from underrepresented backgrounds and aims to level the playing field by looking at the context in which an applicant has achieved their exam results. 

More information about the eligibility criteria for the scheme is available on the Access UCL Scheme webpage.

Group descriptors and barriers

When looking across the sector using the measure of free school meals (FSM), only 29% of FSM students continue to higher education, compared to 50% of non-FSM students (NEON, 2025).

Key barriers for Access UCL students include: 

• Often the first in their family to attend university: first generation university students may require more information and support to navigate the university system. This is because they don’t have people at home to pass on first-hand knowledge and may lack a direct contact in higher education to ask for advice. 

• Imposter syndrome / lack of belonging: while anyone can experience ‘imposter’ feelings, minority groups can be particularly vulnerable to self-doubt and feeling that they do not truly belong in high achieving environments. This can have a real impact on educational success. 

Student Success Interventions

The Student Success Office provides numerous interventions to help Access UCL students:

• Offer holder communications: the Student Success Office begins contact with the Access UCL cohort at the application stage. Offer-holders receive emails about student support services and funding at UCL and are invited to webinars to learn more about this support.

• Access UCL Pre-Enrolment Programme: currently in an expansion phase with a select number of faculties and departments, this week-long programme includes a series of online and in-person sessions. This programme familiarises students with UCL, support services, their academic department, and academic assessments before starting their course.

• Term-time support: Access UCL students are invited to exclusive events hosted by the Student Success Office, from informal socials to information, advice and guidance sessions. Students also receive a regular Access UCL newsletter, signposting to exciting opportunities and useful support across the university.

How do I know if I am eligible for the Access UCL scheme?

Further information on the eligibility criteria fcan be found on the Access UCL scheme webpage.