Discover Bristol
University of Bristol
Applications for this cycle have closed
This programme usually runs again each year. Keep an eye out for the next round. Explore what's live now.
Want a head start on university? Join Discover Bristol’s free online sessions to explore academic tasters, sharpen personal statements, learn UCAS tips, funding and study skills, and connect with students and careers support to boost your applications and confidence.
Discover Bristol is a virtual outreach programme for Year 13 students from lower socio-economic backgrounds, delivered by the University of Bristol. The programme offers up to six online after-school sessions that include academic tasters, UCAS and personal statement guidance, student funding and financial literacy, study skills, careers and employability support, and information on student support services.
Sessions are delivered in collaboration with current students, student societies, central student services and the Widening Participation team. Successful completers may be eligible for a guaranteed contextual offer (typically two A-Level grades below standard entry requirements) or a guaranteed interview for courses that require interviews, provided course-specific requirements and admissions test thresholds (e.
g. , UCAT, LNAT, SAQ) are met. Participants will also be supported to attend the University of Bristol Autumn Open Day on Saturday 1 November 2025 to explore campus and meet staff and students.
Applications for the 2025-26 cohort have now closed. Applications are due to reopen in Summer 2026; interested students can complete the expression of interest form to be notified when applications open.
Reasonable adjustments are available for participants who need additional support.
Guaranteed contextual offer or guaranteed interview (subject to course-specific entry requirements and any required admissions tests).
1 June 2026
27 September 2026
Applications are now open for 2026-27; late applications will not be considered. Applicants will be informed after the deadline and no later than 2026-10-13 18:00.
Dates from the previous cycle. New dates are announced when applications reopen.
27 October 2026 – 24 November 2026
Student sessions (Discover Bristol 2026-27)
1 December 2026 – 15 December 2026
Parent and carer sessions (Discover Bristol 2026-27)
Location
- Home fee status (UK/Home fee student)
- Currently attend a state school or college
- Be in your final year of A-level study (or equivalent)
- Have the academic ability to study at the University of Bristol, including meeting relevant GCSE entry requirements and any required Level 3 subjects
- Have applied or will apply for an undergraduate course at the University of Bristol via UCAS (participants may be withdrawn if they do not apply)
- Be eligible to receive Free School Meals OR live in an IMD quintile 1 or 2 postcode area
- Not have already taken part in a University of Bristol Widening Participation programme (Access to Bristol, Bristol Scholars, Insight into Bristol, Next Step Bristol or the Virtual Summer School)
Checked 23 August 2026
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