Contextual Admissions

At the University of Derby, we aim to attract the very best students to join us and to support their progression to university to ensure they reach their full potential and achieve their ambitions. We believe the very best students come from all backgrounds and we want to build a community that reflects our society.  

What is a contextual offer?

Contextual offers are used by universities and colleges to take account of a student’s individual circumstances. Employing contextual offers at the University Derby will allow our admissions team to identify applicants with the greatest potential to succeed in higher education and be an exceptional Derby student. This makes the application process fairer and builds confidence in students about their ability to be part of our academic community.

We will use the information in an application form and may either reduce grade requirements or give extra consideration when deciding whether to give a contextual offer. We will also support these students through information, advice and guidance, outreach activities and on-campus visits before and during the application process.

What is the criteria?

Typical criteria may include one or more of the following:

•  Students who are care experienced
• Students who are estranged from their families
• Students who are refugees or asylum seekers
• Students whose parents/carers are in the UK armed forces

*Please note students need to declare they meet one of these criteria on their application.

Find out more about our admissions policies