Frequently asked questions


What is the Kingston University Compact Scheme?

The scheme aims to make the transition to university easier for successful first generation applicants, mature students, students who spent time growing up in public care and care leaver/foyer students by providing advice and guidance as well as support. This can start before you apply, throughout the application process, before and after enrolment and during your course.

It is an admissions scheme with enhanced advice and guidance. For students who are local authority care leavers or in foyer accommodation it also includes a bursary. Care leaver/foyer students should also refer to our support for care leaver students information.

Can anyone join the scheme?

No. To be eligible you must meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • You are the first generation in your family to attend university (ie your parents have not completed a university qualification in the UK or overseas).
  • You are a mature student who does not currently hold a bachelor's degree.
  • You had a period of time growing up in public care.
  • You are a local authority care leaver or you are in foyer accommodation.

In addition:

  • You must be applying for a place at the University. You cannot apply if you are a current Kingston University student or already hold a bachelor's degree.
  • Your predicted grades must be at least 40 UCAS points of the published entry requirements and include relevant GCSEs (or equivalent).
  • You must be a 'Home' status student for fee purposes.

How will I benefit from the scheme?

The benefits include:

  • Support and guidance throughout the application process including access to workshops, events, open days and online activities. These will focus on applying to the University, guidance on student finance, student life at Kingston University, pre-enrolment course preparation activities and a pre-enrolment welcome event. 
  • During your course you will have access to optional support and guidance activities, such as managing your money, academic skills sessions and employment skills seminars.
  • You will be contacted by email alerting you to employment and experience schemes you can apply for, such as our Kingston University Student Ambassador scheme and mentoring opportunities.
  • You will have a single point of contact to help guide you from the pre-application stage through to being on your course.
  • If you are a local authority care leaver or a student in foyer accommodation you may also be eligible for an annual bursary of £1,500*.

    *conditions apply

Can I only apply to certain courses through the scheme?

The scheme applies to all Kingston University courses.

Am I guaranteed a place at Kingston University if I join the scheme?

No. Taking part in the scheme does not guarantee a place on a course; normal application procedures apply and admissions tutors will consider information supplied on your UCAS form and any relevant information from your Compact Scheme application.

How do I apply?

Please complete the online application.

What if I don't meet the conditions of my offer?

If your results do not meet the conditions of your offer please contact our Applicant Services department as soon as possible.

Applicant Services can be contacted by telephone on 0844 855 2177 (for callers in the UK only) or +44(0)20 8328 1148 (for callers outside the UK). You can also email aps@kingston.ac.uk.

You will receive information about how to contact the University during the summer results period.

What support will I receive once I enrol?

The Compact Scheme team will be a point of contact for advice and guidance throughout your course. You will also be given the contact details of your faculty's student support officer and have access to all student support services at Kingston University.

During your course you will have access to optional support and guidance activities, such as managing your money, academic skills sessions and employment skills seminars.

If I join the Compact Scheme will my experience of joining the University be different to other students?

No. You will be going through the same process as every other student and will not be separated or singled out in any way. The scheme simply provides you with an enhanced package of guidance and help.

What financial support is available?

There is no financial support automatically attached to the Compact Scheme. However you will be given priority for one of Kingston University's scholarships if you meet additional eligibility criteria.

All Compact Scheme applicants are strongly advised to contact our Student Funding Service for information about possible financial support available through the National Scholarship Programme and our new Kingston Scholarship Scheme. Find out more in our Money matters section.

If you are a care leaver with 'Home' status for fees you will be entitled to a bursary of £1,500 per year of study in addition to any other financial support you receive.

How can I find out more about Kingston University?

If you would like to find out more about Kingston University before applying come to one of our open days or participate in our online events and chat with current students.

Alternatively ask your careers adviser if we are due to visit your school or college.

Who can I contact about the Compact Scheme?

Please contact the Compact Scheme co-ordinator on 020 8417 3233 or at compact@kingston.ac.uk.

Buttle UK

Buttle UKKingston University was one of the first six higher education institutions to be awarded a quality mark from Buttle UK for our commitment to supporting local authority care leavers and our recognition of the particular challenges faced by looked after young people.