Applying to the University with a criminal record

We value the wealth of experience, skills and knowledge which students from diverse backgrounds bring to the experience of other students and staff of the University.

We aspire as a University to raise aspirations of students from groups currently under-represented in higher education and to break down barriers which might discourage people from taking up courses at the University. This includes welcoming applications from individuals who have previously been convicted of a criminal offence.

If you are applying to any of the following courses, you will be asked to declare if you hold a criminal conviction when completing your application:

Undergraduate:

Postgraduate:

Students on the above courses are also required to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance check as per our Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Policy.

Each year, you are required to re-enrol at the University and students on all of the above courses are required to sign a declaration verifying that there has been no change to the information previously supplied in their DBS application. Failing to disclose of any changes may lead to exclusion from the University.

For all other courses at the University, you are not asked to declare at the point of application and are instead required to inform the University prior to registration, if you are bound by restrictions or have probation requirements to fulfil following a conviction.

Optional modules

Many of our courses include optional modules which allow you to personalise what you study during your time at the University. Some optional modules will require you to undergo an Enhanced DBS clearance check.

If you require a Student Visa to study in the UK

If you require Student visa sponsorship to study in the UK you will be asked to declare whether you hold a criminal conviction before you receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).

Study abroad

If you hold a criminal record there may be restrictions on visa applications, depending on the country you wish to study in.

Future careers

A number of professional, statutory and regulatory bodies (PSRBs), such as those involved with financial services, aviation, the security industry or the legal sector, have specific requirements around criminal convictions.

If you know which sector you wish to work in, we encourage you to contact the relevant PSRB for advice before submitting an application to study at the University.

Admissions Policy

Our Admissions Policy is available on the Policies and Regulations page.

Further information

If you require further information or have any questions, you may find the following helpful:

If you have any specific questions about applying to the University with a criminal record, you can contact us in confidence at sensitive.admissions@winchester.ac.uk

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