Can your tutors provide a UCAS reference and predicted grades for private candidates?

Yes, tutors can act as an academic reference for private candidates through UCAS. However, this is only possible under specific circumstances.

Key Points to Consider:

1. Tutor Qualifications and Experience:
   The tutor providing your reference must be a highly experienced tutor or a qualified teacher. They should have a strong understanding of assessing and grading students to ensure that the reference and predicted grades are accurate and fair.

2. Length of Tutoring Relationship:
   The tutor should have worked with you for an extended period, such as several months. This allows them to thoroughly understand your academic abilities, progress, and potential. A tutor who has only worked with you for a short time won’t have the depth of knowledge needed to provide a meaningful reference.

3. University-Specific Requirements:
   Some universities have specific rules for references and predicted grades. For example:

   • They may require the tutor to have a school or institutional email address.

   • References might need to be provided on letterheaded paper.

Before asking your tutor for a reference, check with your chosen universities to verify that your tutor meets their criteria. If your tutor doesn’t meet these requirements, the university may not accept the reference.

4. Accurate Assessment:
   Tutors need enough time and evidence to accurately assess your abilities and potential. A rushed request, such as contacting a tutor just before the UCAS deadline for a reference or grade, is unlikely to be accepted. Tutors need a solid understanding of your performance through multiple lessons.

What should you do next?
If you’re considering asking a tutor for a UCAS reference or predicted grades, please make sure they meet the above criteria and that you’ve worked with them for a significant period. Also, verify the requirements of your chosen universities to ensure any reference you get will definitely be accepted.