h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Generally speaking, most people who apply to study at university in the UK do so through the UCAS system. But it's not the only way...

If your personal circumstances are 'non-standard', or you have special needs (educational or medical), universities are normally very happy to discuss your situation long before you must submit a formal application to study there. As a result of the discussions, the university may give you advice in terms of filling in the UCAS form (or in some cases the uni's own application form), or possibly by suggesting alternative ways of applying that they feel are more appropriate.

As an example, I start an MSc. very soon where my application was by e-mail, CV, and personal interview (I'm a relatively 'mature' student and the university considered my work experience as important as my first degree).

So, in my case I was applying for a masters and I wanted to use my work experience as my qualification, but the rule applies to all prospective students: if you feel you don't fit the application form, or you need special facilities to be able to study, then go talk to your university well in advance and see what they advise. At worst, they will advise you to use the "standard" application route, and you may discover a more appropriate way to apply in your personal circumstances.