The LEAPS Pre-UCAS Interview

About the Interview

The LEAPS Pre-UCAS Interview is an opportunity for final-year LEAPS-eligible students to talk through plans for higher education at college or university with a LEAPS representative. You will be able to discuss your ideas and course options and find out what will help to strengthen your application. You'll also have your LEAPS eligibility checked at the interview. 

It usually takes place between August and early November.

Final-year LEAPS-eligible students, please complete the online survey form here before your interview. 

Your school will let you know when your LEAPS interview will be, and how you can take part in it (this is usually in school).

What to expect during the Interview

So, you might have been given an interview time, but be wondering what that really means. Fret not. Here is our quick guide to your interview!

1. It’s not a scary 'interview' – promise!
It’s an informal chat about your UCAS or college ideas and how we can help you make these become a reality! You don’t have to prepare questions or be nervous about your LEAPS interview.

2. It won’t take up too much of your time
It will last approximately 30 minutes and will focus on you, your plans, goals and ideas.

3. You need to fill out the online survey form in advance please! 
Unfortunately, you can't have a LEAPS interview unless you have filled out the form in advance...so a pretty good reason to fill it out!

4. Give a thought to any future study plans you might like to consider
If you already have some ideas about your future study plans, that's great! However, if you come along with few ideas, that's okay too! Before your interview, it would be good if you could think about what it is you might want to study and start to research your options. The UCAS Course Search website is a good starting point and university open days are also really useful. We are here to help you, whatever stage you are at.

5. You will receive an action plan at the end of the interview to help you progress  
This is a plan of action agreed between you and the interviewer and will include tips to keep you moving forward towards your goals. Please keep hold of this and use it to help you.
 
So there you have it; positive, helpful time with a LEAPS member of staff that will give you a plan that moves you towards your university goals. Hooray!

What happens next?

Following the interview, we would encourage you to take part in LEAPS activities throughout the year.

These activities are designed to help you put in an excellent application to college or university, and then aid your transition to higher education. Please check back for details and look out for updates via email and your school.

You can also contact us throughout the year for information and advice. (And don't forget the action plan you received at your interview!)

Please note, if you miss your interview we will not be able to offer you this service unless there are extenuating circumstances. You must contact LEAPS for further information.

The deadline for LEAPS interviews - and confirming LEAPS eligibility - is Friday 29 November 2024 for the 2024-2025 school year.