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UCAS Waives Fees for Care Leavers to Boost University Access

1/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) will waive the £28.95 application fee for care leavers applying in autumn 2027.
The waiver applies until age 25 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and age 26 in Scotland.
The aim is to improve access for care leavers less likely to attend university.
Currently, only 13% of care leavers in England pursue higher education by age 19.

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Story summary

Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) will waive the £28.95 application fee for care leavers applying in autumn 2027.
The waiver applies until age 25 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and age 26 in Scotland.
The aim is to improve access for care leavers less likely to attend university.
Currently, only 13% of care leavers in England pursue higher education by age 19.