Residential pathway
National
All students in Year 12, based outside of the south west of England (Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Bristol, and Dorset).
Applications for the National Residential Pathway will open on Monday 27th April 2026. You can complete an Expression of Interest form and you will receive an email when applications open.
If you live OUTSIDE the South West (Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset & Bristol), you can apply.
Subject Strands: We aim to place participants on their first choice of residential and subject strand, but due to demand and availability we are not always able to do so. In this case, we will place participants on their second or third choice of residential and subject strand. Please do try to choose a residential and subject strand (see lists below) for your second or your third choice that you would be just as happy to study as part of the ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ Scholars programme. Also, when choosing first, second, and third choices for subject strands, do not select the same subject strand multiple times - this will not increase your chances of getting your first choice.
STREATHAM CAMPUS: Streatham Campus is the University’s largest site in ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ, is built around a country estate overlooking the city, and is readily acknowledged as one of the most beautiful in the country. A Registered Botanic Garden, Streatham Campus is described by The Times as the ‘best-gardened campus in Britain’ and by The Independent as having a ‘sublime’ setting. There are stunning views across the city to the sea at Exmouth, which is only a 15 minute train ride from the city. Many students say they simply fell in love with the campus when they came to visit – its lakes, parkland, woodland and gardens make it a very special place that offers a safe and enjoyable environment.
The campus has seen huge investment over the past couple of years, the most ambitious part of which is the Forum, which provides a stunning centrepiece, offering a new Student Services Centre, a new multi-faith centre, a refurbished library, new technology-rich learning spaces, a 400-seat lecture theatre, retail and catering outlets. All the teaching buildings, together with the sports park, the library, the shops, restaurants, cafés and bars are within easy walking distance of each other.
Although a smaller city, ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ is growing fast and caters so well for the diverse community we have become. The city centre is a 20 minute walk away where there are an exciting variety of shops, bars, restaurants and clubs, and open spaces. The historic Quay area by the river has a large range of eateries, bars and cafes, with access to many extra sports facilities . We have over 300 clubs and societies at ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ, so there really is something for everyone. If there isn't one you want, you can start your own!
The world is rapidly changing: Business permeates all aspects of life, and the future of work is dynamic and unpredictable. Studying the Business activity strand, you will discover what it’s really like to study Business at university and identify the differences in our disciplines through a series of exciting taster sessions in Human Resource Management, Accounting and Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, and Economics. Sessions will explore how businesses operate – exploring the forces that shape organisations, influence global economies and impact our everyday lives.
This strand encourages you to explore real-world challenges and think like a future business leader. Through hands-on activities and case studies you will build valuable skills in critical thinking, analysis, communication, teamwork and problem-solving, learning to think strategically and understand how businesses adapt in a fast-changing world.
You will examine global issues such as sustainability, innovation, globalisation, and economic inequality, discovering how Business and Economics can help us understand and address these challenges. By the end, you will have a clearer sense of where studying Business could take you and how you could shape the complex, hyper-connected world of the future.
After experiencing each core subject, you will have the opportunity to choose elective sessions that spark your interest, giving you the freedom to explore additional subjects offered at the University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ. Please see the list of potential electives below.
Elective subjects:
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Sociology |
Languages |
Archaeology |
Sport and Health Science |
IAIS Building Tour & Middle Eastern Studies |
|
International Relations |
Film & TV Studies |
Anthropology |
Nursing |
Sports Business |
|
Philosophy
|
Drama |
Biosciences
|
Medical Imaging |
Theology & Religion |
|
Law Library & Clinic Tour
|
Clinical Psychology
|
Geography
|
Neuroscience
|
Art History & Visual Culture |
In this dynamic and engaging subject activity strand, you will explore what it’s really like to study Humanities at university through a series of interactive taster sessions in English, History, Classics, and Media & Communications. Each session offers a fresh perspective, exploring the past, present, and future in new and exciting ways.
This strand is designed to challenge and inspire you. You will develop essential skills in communication, critical thinking, analysis, discussion, collaboration, research, and problem-solving — all of which are highly valued by universities and employers alike. By exploring a wide range of topics, from literature and historical events to the ancient world and modern media, you will see how these subjects connect and shape the world around us.
Throughout the strand, you will explore key cultural, social and historical themes and consider how Humanities subjects give a voice to individuals and communities across time. By the end, you will have a deeper understanding of human experience – and a clearer sense of where these subjects could take you in the future. Whether you already know what you want to study or are still exploring your options, this strand will help you take the next step with confidence.
After experiencing each core subject, you will have the opportunity to choose elective sessions that spark your interest, giving you the freedom to explore additional subjects offered at the University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ. Please see the list of potential electives below.
Elective subjects:
|
Sociology |
Languages |
Archaeology |
Sport and Health Science |
IAIS Building Tour & Middle Eastern Studies |
|
International Relations |
Film & TV Studies |
Anthropology |
Nursing |
Sports Business |
|
Philosophy
|
Drama |
Biosciences
|
Medical Imaging |
Theology & Religion |
|
Law Library & Clinic Tour
|
Clinical Psychology
|
Geography
|
Neuroscience
|
Art History & Visual Culture |
This subject strand brings together several exciting disciplines that share a common goal: utilising scientific and mathematical understanding alongside cutting-edge technology to create solutions to real-world problems and answer questions about the universe. From studying the atmospheres of exoplanets to learn more about Earth's weather and climate, to using artificial intelligence to solve healthcare challenges, physicists, mathematicians, engineers, and computer scientists employ scientific knowledge, creativity, and critical thinking to tackle significant societal issues and explore fundamental aspects of our world.
During this subject strand, you will have the opportunity to meet academics, researchers, and current students, and participate in a range of activities across the disciplines. These include problem-solving workshops, hands-on sessions in our labs, and lectures and demonstrations from academics conducting research at the forefront of their fields. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of what it is like to study a STEM-based degree at university, discover the myriad opportunities it can open up, and appreciate the importance of these fields to society.
In today’s rapidly changing world, the study of the Social Sciences offers a unique opportunity to explore the forces impacting societies and individuals. This dynamic programme combines subjects such as Law, Criminology, Sociology, Politics, International Relations, and Middle East Studies, allowing you to explore how people behave, interact, and influence the world around them. Through interactive sessions led by top researchers, you will explore key social, political and legal topics.
Politics covers national affairs and political ideologies, while International Relations examines global issues and foreign affairs. Sociology explores social change and the consequences of human behaviour, Criminology offers insights into crime and criminal behaviour, and Law delves into the legal system’s impact on society. Arab and Islamic Studies and Middle East Studies combine them all together with its socio-political focus. This exciting programme will equip you with critical thinking skills and the ability to engage with a broad range of societal issues, both locally and globally, making it perfect for those passionate about understanding the legal, social and political forces shaping today’s world. All subject sessions are dependent upon staff availability.
There is more to the medical world than white coats and stethoscopes. In this engaging and interactive subject activity strand, you will explore what it’s really like to study Medicine at university, while gaining insight into its connections with biomedical research, clinical practice, and public health. Through a series of sessions, you will begin your journey into the medical world and discover the wide range of specialisms and opportunities it offers.
This strand is designed to give you a broad introduction to the Medical School. You will take part in interactive, hands-on sessions that explore the subject from scientific, ethical, and practical perspectives, supported by university research and teaching staff alongside current medical students. Sessions will cover a variety of topics, from research and core ethical principles to practical guidance on applying to medical school, helping you build a clearer understanding of both the subject and the application process.
Throughout the strand, you will experience the engaging and collaborative ‘problem-based learning’ approach that underpins teaching at ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ. By actively participating in sessions, you will develop and refine the key skills essential for success in your future career within the varied, vibrant, and competitive field of Medicine and medical professions.
Note: Participants must be studying at least one Science subject at A Level, IB, or equivalent. In the event of oversubscription, priority will be given to students studying both Biology and Chemistry at A Level (or equivalent), though all eligible students are encouraged to apply.
After experiencing each core subject, you will have the opportunity to choose elective sessions that spark your interest, giving you the freedom to explore additional subjects offered at the University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ. Please see the list of potential electives below.
Elective subjects:
|
Sociology |
Languages |
Archaeology |
Sport and Health Science |
IAIS Building Tour & Middle Eastern Studies |
|
International Relations |
Film & TV Studies |
Anthropology |
Nursing |
Sports Business |
|
Philosophy
|
Drama |
Biosciences
|
Medical Imaging |
Theology & Religion |
|
Law Library & Clinic Tour
|
Clinical Psychology
|
Geography
|
Neuroscience
|
Art History & Visual Culture |
Penryn Campus
PENRYN CAMPUS: At the University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ, Cornwall, you will be part of a vibrant community where environmental consciousness and sustainability are woven into every aspect of our courses and culture. The Penryn campus offers the very latest academic, research and residential facilities set in 100 acres of countryside close to the waterside town of Falmouth, with beautiful views over the Fal estuary. Made up of around 6,000 students, it offers a unique arrangement as we share the campus with Falmouth University; a leading specialist arts institution. This combination creates a vibrant community of students from science, engineering, humanities, and arts backgrounds.
Our small size means we are able to create an environment where you will have ample opportunity to contribute, ask questions and get to know those around you. Our students cherish the deeply personal experiences that are not only intellectually challenging but also great fun. Cornwall is a place where friendships and connections blossom that last well beyond graduation.
During your time on the ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ Scholars Residential based on our Penryn campus, you will experience first-hand the close-knit friendly community the campus offers, as well as the beautiful areas that surround the campus.
We look forward to welcoming you to our fantastic campus in July!
Biology is the study of life, from the microscopic bacteria on our skin to the enormous blue whales inhabiting the oceans. As biologists, we ask questions about living organisms and how they interact with their environment. We try to understand the weird and wonderful behaviours that we observe and why these vary among different individuals and species. We study the evolutionary processes that produced the amazing diversity of life on Earth and how we can best conserve it.
Through this strand, you will broaden your knowledge of the bioscience subjects taught on the Penryn Campus and will experience different university learning styles including in the classroom, the lab, and in the field. During all these activities you will be joined by students and staff from the department and will be able to find out more about their research and where a degree in biosciences could take you.
After experiencing each core subject, you will have the opportunity to choose elective sessions that spark your interest, giving you the freedom to explore additional subjects offered at the University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ. Please see the list of potential electives below.
Elective subjects:
|
History |
Global Sustainability |
Marine Biology |
|
Environmental Humanities |
Geology |
Animal Behaviour |
|
Languages |
Geography |
Marine Science |
Engineers combine science, maths, creativity and critical thinking to solve significant challenges in society. Sourcing clean and sustainable energy is one of the biggest global challenges we face, and there is an ever pressing need to find new and innovative solutions to the ongoing energy and climate crises. Through constant exploration and innovation, engineers are key to advancing endeavours in building a sustainable future.
This strand also provides you with the opportunity to learn more about Environmental Science – the study of our environment and the solutions to environmental problems that we face other than the need to find renewable energy resources. Environmental Science includes plant and soil science, oceanography, atmosphere, geology, and the influence of humans on the environment.
At ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ, we believe in research-inspired teaching and, in line with our focus on practical skills development, this strand will largely be held in laboratory and field settings alongside classroom learning – truly immersing you in life as a University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ student studying one of the above subjects. You'll also get the chance to meet some of our current students and learn about their research and their experiences of university life.
After experiencing each core subject, you will have the opportunity to choose elective sessions that spark your interest, giving you the freedom to explore additional subjects offered at the University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ. Please see the list of potential electives below.
Elective subjects:
|
History |
Global Sustainability |
Marine Biology |
|
Environmental Humanities |
Geology |
Animal Behaviour |
|
Languages |
Geography |
Marine Science |
In today's rapidly changing global world, we face a number of challenges surrounding inequality, the environmental crisis, and conflict, posing social and ethical dilemmas. The academic disciplines of Business, Law, Politics, History and Environmental Humanities work together to address these questions, even going so far as to address the gritty criminal side of law. In this subject strand, you will challenge yourself by examining some of the major questions facing our society and consider how we can make a difference. By understanding these challenges, we can identify opportunities to transform our ever-changing world for the better.
This subject strand will encourage you to think critically, reason effectively, and be reflective whilst analysing and discussing challenging topics by using in depth and involved activities for you to address these topics. With this strand you can be a part of the global conversation and solving the environmental issues, stand up to argue morality with your strand and discover where the fields of Business, Law, Politics, History and Environmental Humanities could lead you.
Programme eligibility:
In order to apply, you must meet the following general eligibility criteria:
You DO NOT live in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Bristol, or Dorset
You are studying at a non-fee-paying school (state school) or are home-educated
If you are studying at a fee-paying school on a full scholarship or bursary, you are able to apply on this basis. Please note that we may ask for evidence of your full scholarship or bursary. If you are home educated you are able to apply, but must meet at least one of the ten programme eligibility criteria
You are in year 12
You have achieved a minimum of 8 GCSEs at grades 9–4 (A*–C), to include GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 (C) and above
You are a Home/EU registered student, or you expect to be so by the time you apply for higher education
(If you are not a Home student for tuition fee purposes but meet the eligibility criteria for our Sanctuary Scholarship (for refugees / asylum seekers / people with limited leave to remain), then we would welcome an application from you
PLUS
You must meet at least one of the following eleven additional programme eligibility criteria:
1. You live in a neighbourhood where a low percentage of young people progress to higher education as defined by your home postcode
If you are not sure then you can use our postcode eligibility checker to find out if your postcode qualifies. This will also be checked by the University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ once you have submitted your application.
2. You live in a low-income neighbourhood as defined by home postcode
If you are not sure then you can use our postcode eligibility checker to find out if your postcode qualifies. This will also be checked by the University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ once you have submitted your application.
3. You live in an area with low participation of state-funded mainstream school pupils as defined by home postcode
If you are not sure then you can use our postcode eligibility checker to find out if your postcode qualifies. This will also be checked by the University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ once you have submitted your application.
4. You are in receipt of free school meals
This statement will be verified with your school or college.
5. You are eligible for school bursaries
This statement will be verified with your school or college.
6. Your parents have not studied at university
7. You are or have been living in care
Anyone who has been or is currently in care or from a looked-after background at any stage of their life, no matter how short. This care may have been provided in one of many different settings, such as in residential care, foster care, kinship care, or looked after at home with a supervision requirement.
8. You have caring responsibilities
Anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who, due to illness, disability, a mental health problem, or an addiction, cannot cope without their support.
9. You have a disability
10. You are an estranged student
We define an estranged student as someone who does not have the support and approval of their family, and who often has no contact with their family at all.
11. You are a refugee or asylum seeker
Defined as a student who has submitted a claim for asylum within the UK and is awaiting a response, who has Limited Leave to Remain in the UK, who has been awarded Humanitarian Protection or Refugee status in the UK, or who is the dependent family member of someone with one of these immigration statuses.
NB: If you do not fulfil one of these eleven additional eligibility criteria but you have experienced difficult family or individual circumstances that have affected your performance in exams and possibly the likelihood of you going to university, then we invite you to apply, and each case will be considered on an individual basis.
Code of conduct
This should be read and understood by the student and parent / carer. Students will NOT be allowed to attend the residential part of the ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ Scholars programme unless the relevant part of the application form has been ticked to indicate that you understand the rules and regulations.
Expected Behaviour
Participating in a University of ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ residential will be very different from your experience at school. We want all students to benefit from and enjoy this new experience. In order to do this, you will be expected to show responsible behaviour, and respect the rights of other students and staff.
Rules and Regulations
For health and safety reasons, and for all students to have the opportunity to benefit and enjoy the ·¬ÇÑÊÓÆµ Scholars residential, the following rules and regulations will be in operation:
- Alcohol must not be brought onto the university site or consumed during the programme.
- The purchase or use of any illegal substances is strictly forbidden.
- Smoking / vaping is not permitted.
- Students are expected to attend all timetabled activities (unless there is a valid reason for absence, such as illness).
- Students are not allowed to leave the university site without permission; in the event of unauthorised absences, the university is not liable for any situations which may occur off-site involving the student. For any authorised trips off-site, students will be accompanied by a member of staff.
- Students must not take photos or film other participants on the programme or staff members without their explicit consent.
- Students are expected to follow any emergency procedure, such as a fire drill, as directed by University staff.
- Students are not permitted to enter any other participant’s bedroom; there are social spaces such as shared kitchens to socialise in. You must not change from the bedroom that has been allocated to you. If you have a problem with your room, please inform a member of staff.
- You are responsible for the keys / swipe cards issued to you on arrival. If you lose them, you must report this immediately to a member of staff. You may have to pay for a replacement.
- Students are expected to be in their rooms at specified times (which will be indicated on the first day).
- Students must wear their name badge at all times on the lanyards provided.
- Neither abusive and anti-social behaviour nor homophobic, sexist, or racist language will be tolerated in any circumstances.
Serious Incidents of Misbehaviour
In the event of serious incidents of misbehaviour, such as fighting, racial abuse, the use of illegal substances, or leaving the university site without permission, the student(s) concerned will not be allowed to continue on the residential and arrangements will be made for the student(s) to be taken home. In some cases this may involve a cost to the parents / carers of the student.
First Day of the Residential
On the first day of the residential, staff will explain some additional rules and regulations that will apply to activities currently being planned. As such, it is expected that you will adhere to them for your own health and safety, and that of other students and staff.
If you have any concerns or questions about the code of conduct then please contact us via exeterscholars@exeter.ac.uk