Schools & Colleges
January 2024 update: Applications for students entering Year 12/first year of college have now closed. Students with complete applications received before the deadline have now been contacted about the outcome of their application. Applications will reopen in September 2024 for students in Year 12 in September 2024.
Realising Opportunities (RO) is an innovative national programme for eligible, talented students at targeted schools and colleges providing increased access to some of England’s leading research intensive universities.
RO gives students support during their post 16 studies to develop their skills and feel prepared for university. 93% of RO students in 2022 applied to university by the end of Year 13 – more than double the overall proportion of 18-year-olds applying to university that year.
“Every year, a number of our sixth form students who meet the criteria have gained massive benefit from the scheme. They have gained much more of an insight into higher education and given them the skills required to make a competitive application.”
Mr Rastelli, Head of Sixth Form at Ulverston Victoria High School
“Brilliant experience that I would recommend to everyone. It was easy to complete on the side whilst doing A levels. I enjoyed it and there was always a brilliant support system.”
Ashni, RO student 2020-22
Eligibility
Schools participating in RO will be provided with a Student Application Key which allows students to access the online application system. Read application information for your students.
If you worked with RO last year, you may notice small changes to the eligibility criteria. These changes have been made to prioritise applications from students who meet multiple eligibility criteria. The more criteria a student meets, the more likely they are to secure a place on the programme.
If you work at a state-funded school/college interested in joining RO (and have students who would meet the eligibility criteria for participation), you should contact the Partner university geographically closest to you to discuss if it is possible for your school/college to take part. You can find the contact details our Partner universities our contact us page. RO has a limited capacity for the number of students we are able to work with each year and the RO Partner universities lead on their school/college relationships.
Recruitment Guide 2023 for Schools/Colleges
Applications have closed for students in Year 12/first year of college.
Please read the Recruitment Guide 2023 for Schools/Colleges to find out more about the:
- RO programme
- benefits for students taking part and
- steps involved in supporting students’ applications.
Advancing Access
Advancing Access provides a variety of CPD resources and online events for teachers and advisers to help them support students’ progression to leading universities.