UCAS Equal Consideration Deadline 2025: January 29th, 1pm EST (6pm UK time)

Written By Joanne Clark

What is the Equal Consideration Deadline (ECD)?

The Equal Consideration Deadline (ECD) is the date by which all UCAS applications must be submitted to guarantee they are considered equally by UK universities. For the 2025 entry cycle, the ECD is 29 January 2025 at 18:00 (UK time).

Why should US applicants aim to submit their UCAS applications before the ECD?

  • Courses cannot close before this date. After the ECD passes, universities can close courses if they are fully subscribed. This means students who wait too long to apply may miss out, especially for competitive subjects or courses with limited spaces.

  • Get a head start on planning the logistics of studying in the UK. Submitting before the January ECD, allows US students to know sooner where they’ll be studying, giving them extra time to prepare for their move, talk to family, and sort finances.

What happens if I miss the ECD?

While it’s preferable to apply to UK universities before the Equal Consideration Deadline, UCAS remains open until 30 June 2025. After this date, you can still apply to unfilled courses for September entry through a process called ‘Clearing.’ However, keep in mind that the later you apply, the more flexible you’ll need to be with your course and university choices.

Joanne Clark