BUDDING Black Country students planning to start an undergraduate course at university or college this autumn need to get their applications in this weekend.

Students have until 6pm tomorrow evening (Sunday, January 15) to submit their UCAS application to guarantee it to be considered by their chosen institution.

Louise Evans, UCAS’ head of adviser experience, said: “Now’s the time to put the final touches to your application. Make sure your personal statement expresses your desire, excitement and commitment to your chosen courses and proofread it several times.

“Double check all of your choices carefully and remember that it’s not a big risk to pick one or two courses which ask for grades which may be a stretch, alongside others which match your teacher’s predictions more closely. This could give you more options when it comes to making your decisions later in the year.

“Once all sections of your application are complete, your school or college will add their reference before it is submitted to UCAS. This year the deadline falls on a Sunday, so if you need support from your school or college, be sure to speak to someone soon to allow them enough time to help you.’’

An application received after the deadline will still be sent to the universities and colleges, however, it will only be considered if there are vacancies.

UCAS have dedicated advisors on Twitter and Facebook this weekend, while help is also available on by calling trained advisers on 0371 468 0468.