Thousands expected at Derby’s first Sunday Open Day ahead of UCAS deadline

Students looking for support with their UCAS personal statements ahead of the January 14 deadline are invited to attend the University of Derby’s upcoming Open Day.

Held on Sunday 7 December, the Open Day will include a dedicated ‘Personal Statement Guidance Session’, offering students one-to-one support from experts.

Advisors will be on hand to help students with the new personal statement format introduced for 2026 entry and provide tailored feedback to make their statements stand out ahead of the UCAS deadline in January.

On the day, students will also be able to meet academics, current students and graduates, attend subject talks and tour the facilities and award-winning accommodation that the University of Derby offers.

Thousands of students and their families are expected to attend the event, which, for the first time, is being hosted on a Sunday to meet growing demand.

A student, who attended the November Open Day held by the University, described the support as “really helpful”, adding that advisors explained what to include in their personal statement “in easy words and quickly as well”.

They added:

“I didn’t think I would enjoy the Open Day as much as I did, as I have been to others, but the University of Derby definitely stood out to me.”

Hannah Wright, Associate Director of Student Recruitment at the University of Derby, said: “Our Open Days are always extremely popular as they provide the chance to witness first-hand why the University of Derby, and the city itself, are so special.

“They offer personal, one-to-one time with helpful staff who can give feedback and guidance on the application process and next steps. Students and their families leave feeling more confident about the UCAS process and about their university choice.”

Prospective students can also learn about the University’s full range of traditional undergraduate degrees, as well as Degree Apprenticeships, delivered in partnership with industry leaders including Rolls-Royce and the NHS.

Those who already have their grades, or predicted grades, and meet the entry requirements of the University of Derby, may be able to receive an offer in principle on the day.

The University recently celebrated a triple success at the 2025 Global Student Living Awards (UK & Ireland). Based on student feedback, the University was named Best University Housing for the fourth year in a row, retained the title of Best Environmental Management for the third running, and, for the first time, was awarded Best Value for Money.