Not all university offers are the same. Many Higher Education Providers (HEPs) now make contextual offers, reduced entry requirements that take into account your background and circumstances. These schemes are designed to make higher education fairer and more accessible.
What is a contextual offer?
- An adjusted entry offer (e.g., up to 3 grades lower) based on factors such as school attended, postcode, or personal circumstances.
- Each university sets its own scheme—it’s not the same everywhere.
- Designed to recognise potential beyond grades alone.
Who’s it for?
Contextual offers may apply if you:
- Live in an area where fewer young people go to university.
- Attend a school or college on an eligibility list.
- Have experience of care or other personal challenges.
- Are the first in your family to attend university.
How does it work?
- Each university has its own criteria.
- Some use postcode lookups or school lists.
- Others look at widening participation programmes (e.g. Bridges to HE at Exeter).
What do the South West HEP offer? (NSSW Partners)
- University of Plymouth (UoP): brand new scheme, clear list of criteria and eligible schools. Offers may be up to 3 grades lower.
- University of Exeter (UoE): Detailed self-assessment tool. Clear reduced offers. Includes students who attended Bridges to HE.
- Plymouth Marjon University (Marjon): Currently does not offer traditional contextual offers. Instead, they focus on personalised support and holistic admissions.
- Falmouth University: Policy recognises applicants facing barriers such as care experience or low-income background. Applicants should highlight circumstances in UCAS.
- Arts University Plymouth (AUP): Does not label as “contextual offers” but considers all applications individually, especially for non-standard qualifications or complex circumstances.
- Yeovil College University Centre: Students over 21 may be offered more flexible entry criteria, including a pre-entry assessment.
Tips on how to find out more:
- Research partner university websites – use the links above, some HEPs have dedicated page with information about contextual offers and others have more information on the individual course page.
- Visit UCAS online “More about you” section.
- Speak directly to University Admissions Teams.