What is a selection event?

It's a process to assess whether you're suitable for a place on the course. It's a chance to show us your knowledge about the subject and your enthusiasm for the career.

Being invited to a selection event doesn't mean you're guaranteed a place on the course - the point of the day is to help us come to a mutual decision. We need to decide whether to make you an offer and you need to decide whether you like the course and the university.

To find out what will happen on the day, see the subject-specific information below. The timings listed are approximate, so please keep your plans for travelling home flexible.

When and where is my selection event?

If you're invited to a selection event you'll receive an email telling you when it is and where to go.

It's important to be on time. You should arrive 30 minutes before the start time so you can register. If you're delayed on the way to the event call 0114 225 5555 and ask for Admissions.

What happens on a selection event?

You will have an individual interview where you will be asked to sit, talk critically and answer questions about an aspect relating to your proposed choice of course – for example to discuss a text you have read or are studying.

What else can I experience on the day?

You are welcome to look around the campus, but no further formal events are scheduled.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?

You will need to be prepared to answer questions/discuss an issue relevant to your course of study i.e. in relation to an author, text, novel or poem that has inspired your interest and enthusiasm, with an explanation about why this has captured the your interest.

An example might be explaining why you are drawn to the work of a particular author/poet/critic or theorist.

What do I need to bring with me?

You do not need to bring anything with you.

What are we looking for?

We will be looking for enthusiasm, genuine commitment and a real engagement with the subject. You should also provide evidence of independent reading and/or writing.

Who is on the selection event panel?

A Sheffield Hallam member of staff (often the Admissions Tutor)

What should I wear?

Dress reasonable smartly, but there is no need to wear a suit. Smart but casual clothing will allow you to feel confident and at ease.

How do I find you?

Floor 11 Owen Building

A campus map is available to download.

Please allow plenty of time for travelling as parking is limited on all campuses. Please read signs carefully when parking as there are restrictions in place. We strongly recommend that you use public transport where possible.

I'm disabled and require support at the event. Can you help?

Sheffield Hallam University welcomes applications from disabled people and is proactive in ensuring equality of access. If you think you, or any of your guests, may require support during your visit (for example, a sign language interpreter, notetaker, materials provided in a different format or wheelchair access), please contact us within 3 days of the receipt of your invite to a selection event on 0114 225 5342 or at events@shu.ac.uk so that we can arrange this for you.

What happens after my selection event?

What offer can we make you after a selection event?

We cannot tell you our decision on the day of the selection event. After the selection event our decision will be communicated via UCAS track, so please check your account regularly.

You will receive one of the following decisions

Conditional offer

For the course that you have applied for – you must fulfil certain criteria (usually based on the qualifications you are currently taking) before you can be accepted on the course. If the requirements are met, the offer becomes unconditional.

Unconditional offer

For the course that you have applied for – usually made when you have already completed your qualifications and met the academic requirements we are asking for.

Unsuccessful

Unfortunately we are not able to offer you a place on the course. We do not feel that you have the necessary skills or experience to be successful on one of our courses. However, this does not prevent you from applying in the future, should you undertake further study to develop your skills and experience.