Studying in the UK: a guide to UCAS
In short
- Undergraduate applications are made centrally through UCAS, with up to five choices.
- For Oxford, Cambridge and most medicine courses the deadline is in mid-October; for most others it is usually in January.
- Since Brexit, students from Greece generally pay international tuition fees.
The United Kingdom remains one of the most popular destinations for pupils from Greece: universities with a long tradition, shorter programmes and a clear, central application process. Let’s see how it works.
What UCAS is
UCAS is the central platform for applying to undergraduate programmes at UK universities. With one application you can list up to five choices (courses or universities). The same application, with the same personal statement, goes to all your choices.
The key deadlines
- Mid-October: for Oxford, Cambridge and most courses in medicine, dentistry and veterinary science.
- January: the “equal consideration” deadline for most other courses.
The exact dates are set by UCAS every year, so we always check them at the official source. The key point: preparation starts long before, ideally in the 2nd year of Lykeio.
What the application needs
- Grades: school grades and, depending on the university, Panhellenic or other exam results.
- Personal statement: the text in which you explain why you want to study the subject. From the 2026 application cycle it has a new format, with three questions. See our personal statement guide.
- A reference from a teacher.
- An English language certificate (e.g. IELTS), according to each course’s requirements.
- For some courses, admissions tests or an interview.
Length and structure of studies
Most bachelor’s degrees last three years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and four in Scotland. Students focus on their subject from the first year, which is why choosing the course is critical.
Costs after Brexit
Since 2021, students from EU countries, including Greece, generally pay international tuition fees and do not have access to UK student loans. A student visa is also required. Costs vary considerably by university and course, so we look at them from the start.
How we help
From building a shortlist and checking entry requirements to the personal statement and the final review of the application. See studying abroad and our university applications service.
Frequently asked questions
How many universities can I apply to through UCAS?
Up to five choices with one application. For medicine, dentistry and veterinary science there are additional limits on the number of choices.
When is the UCAS deadline?
For Oxford, Cambridge and most medicine courses, mid-October; for most other courses, January. The exact dates are announced by UCAS every year.
How long is a bachelor’s degree in the UK?
Usually three years in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and four in Scotland.
