Current position
- Following the Government’s changes to the A-level and BTEC grading system the Department for Education established a Higher Education Admissions Taskforce. Joy Elliott-Bowman, Director of Policy and Development, sits on the Higher Education Admissions Taskforce announced by the Universities Minister and IHE is continuing to work with the Government and sector bodies on all connected issues. Please contact info@independenthe.com for any urgent issues. The Government’s support package for providers has changed following this announcement, including the removal of Student Number Controls.
- The Department for Education has agreed to support students into preferred universities. Students have been given reassurances on university places and the Government is lifting the cap on medical courses for the coming academic year. See the Department’s website for further information.
- UCAS has announced changes to Clearing 2020. Both ‘placed’ and ‘unplaced’ students will continue to have the opportunity to change their choice of provider/course including once they receive their grades. There will also be a new service that will can suggest alternative opportunities, based on their achievements, their course interest, and other preferences. They will also be working with BBC Bitesize to give students enhanced advice on applying to university and Clearing. The service will be available to students from early July.
Official guidance
- DfE – Cancellation of GCSEs, AS and A Levels in 2020
- OfS – Further extension to moratorium on unconditional offer-making
- DfE – Student number controls
- OfS – Guidance for providers about student and consumer protection during the coronavirus
(COVID-19) pandemic - DfE – A statement on our updated guidance for private candidates
- DfE – Government support package for universities and students
- UCAS – More personalised options and support than ever for students in Clearing 2020
- Further Guidance on Student Number Controls