School Leaver Key Dates 2026/27

UCAS Deadlines, Apprenticeship Events & Career Planning Calendar

Planning your next steps after school or college? Whether you’re considering university, an apprenticeship, T Levels, or entering employment, staying informed about key deadlines and careers events can help you make confident decisions about your future.

This guide highlights the most important school leaver dates for Year 11, Year 12 and Year 13 students (and their parents!) during the 2026/27 academic year, including UCAS application deadlines, Oxbridge applications, medical school deadlines, apprenticeship events, and careers fairs.

Not sure where to start with higher education options? Check out our year-by-year timeline for students.

What are the most important school leaver dates for 2026/27?

Read on for full breakdown of the key dates every student, parent and teacher should be aware of.

2027 UCAS Applications – Now Open! (Important for Year 12 students!)

The application process for university study in 2027 is officially open! Students can register with UCAS to access their UCAS Hub and will need to specify their start year and confirm their interest in undergraduate study. Different courses have different application deadlines, so be sure to keep an eye on them!

2026 UCAS Final Deadline Before Clearing – 30 June 2026

University applications received after 30 June will automatically enter Clearing. Clearing is part of the UCAS application process, it’s how universities fill remaining places on their courses, and how students without a university offer (or who want to switch) can still find a place for September.

A Level Results day – 13 August 2026

A Level Results Day will take place on Thursday 13 August 2026 in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales. In Scotland, students will receive their SQA results on Tuesday 4 August 2026. Results can be collected from 8:00am, or from the time your school or college opens on the day. Feeling nervous? Check out our guide to what’s next after A Level results day. 

GCSE Results day – 20 August 2026 

GCSE exam results will be released on Thursday 20 August 2026. GCSEs are the first step on student’s higher education or career path, with these exams completed, they can start applying to either sixth form college to sit A Levels or begin their career journey.

Final 2026 Entry Applications – 24 September 2026

24 September is the final deadline for 2026 university applications. Any applications received after 18:00 will not meet the deadline, and those applicants will need to wait until 2027 for a university place.

Conservatoire 2027 Application Deadline – 1 October 2026

Conservatoires are specialist higher education institutions focused on training in the performing arts, including music, dance, and drama. With dedicated facilities and industry-focused teaching, they offer a real insight into professional creative careers.

They offer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, with a strong emphasis on practical training and performance. Students receive individual tuition from industry professionals and regularly perform in front of live audiences, building the skills and experience needed for a career in the arts.

Oxbridge 2027 Application Deadline – 15 October 2026

The deadline for applying to study at either the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge in 2027 falls on 15 October at 18:00. The admissions process at both universities is unique, requiring exceptional grades, additional admissions assessments, and earlier deadlines than other UK universities.

Considering an Oxbridge application? Don’t miss our Guide to studying at Oxford or Cambridge University which tells you all you need to know about studying at these prestigious institutions, and why they remain unique amongst higher education providers.

UK Medical School 2027 Deadline – 15 October 2026

From the science of the human body to the realities of patient care, studying medicine is the start of a challenging and rewarding journey towards becoming a doctor. The application deadline for medicine and dentistry is strictly 18:00 on 15 October 2026.

T Levels Week – 19 – 23 October 2026 (A great starting point for Year 11 students thinking about their career paths)

T Levels Week is organised by the Department for Education to raise awareness of T Levels, celebrate student success, and highlight the value of industry placements. T Levels have been developed in partnership with leading businesses to offer recognised qualifications that provide an excellent route into employment, apprenticeships, and further study.

They offer rewarding opportunities to support career aspirations, with many T Level students going on to work with their placement employer after completing their course.

What University? & What Career? Live – 13 & 14 November 2026

The leading school leaver event returns to Olympia, London on 13 & 14 November, giving students, parents, and teachers the chance to speak with leading universities, employers, and careers advisers all under one roof! Find out more about what’s going on and book your free tickets here.

National Apprenticeship Week – 8 – 14 February 2027

This annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships takes place across England, showcasing and celebrating apprentices, employers, training providers, and the many people who have benefited from the incredible opportunities apprenticeships provide. The 2027 event will mark the 20th anniversary of this national celebration.

What University? & What Career? Live – 27 & 28 February 2027

What University? & What Career? Live returns to the NEC, Birmingham, offering Year 11-13 students, parents, and teachers the chance to speak with leading universities, employers, and careers advisers all under one roof! Find out more about what’s going on and book your free tickets here.

National Careers Week – 1-5  March 2027

National Careers Week (NCW) is an annual UK-wide event that promotes careers education and guidance. It helps students and job seekers explore study and career options, connect with employers, and gain valuable insights through activities such as virtual careers fairs, school events, and employer-led sessions.

Are there any other deadlines you think we should highlight? Get in touch today and let us know what other key dates would be useful for students, parents, and teachers.

Looking for the chance to speak with universities, apprenticeship providers, and careers advisers all in one place? Join us at the next What University? & What Career? Live event to discover all of the opportunities available to school leavers across an unmissable two days.