Uni Unlocked

Your next big adventure.

Not sure if university is for you? This is your chance to find out. Uni Unlocked is a completely FREE three-day, two-night stay at UEA, taking place this July. The perfect way to kick start your Summer holiday.

Experience what student life is really like on campus, staying in a student flat with other Year 10s. You'll take part in taster sessions with sports clubs and societies, learn about different university subjects and placement years, and find out about all the support that's available to university students. Plus, we've got target archery, a mini 'freshers fair', and a silent disco night - just a few ways we'll be showing you all the fun stuff you can do at university!

Sound interesting? Keep reading to discover more and find out if you’re eligible to apply.

What is Uni Unlocked?

Uni Unlocked is a completely free three-day, two-night trip to UEA campus. You’ll explore our campus with staff and students, discover subject options, take part in taster sessions with some of our sports clubs and societies, enjoy a mini freshers’ fair, and dance the night away at our silent disco.

Why should I apply?

There are lots of reasons to take part in Uni Unlocked: three days of fun is just one of them. Discovering that university may be for you is another. We know making decisions about your future can seem scary, so we’re here to help you feel more confident making them. 

Your accommodation, all meals, activities, and transport to and from the event are completely free. 

When is it?

Uni Unlocked takes place during the first week of the Summer holidays, from Wednesday 22 July to Friday 24 July 2026.

Where will I stay?

You get to experience what campus life is really like by staying in a real student flat. You’ll have your own room with an en-suite bathroom and share a kitchen and social spaces with other Year 10s. Our student ambassadors will be close by to help you settle in and show you around, answering any questions you might have about what it’s like to be a student. 

Can I apply?

Applications for Uni Unlocked 2026 will open on Monday 20 April.

Uni Unlocked is designed to help students who may not be considering Higher Education for several reasons. 
So, you can apply if:

• You’re currently in Year 10

• You attend a state school

• You live in Norfolk or Suffolk and attend one of our partner schools

And you meet at least one of the eligibility criteria listed below

• You are currently eligible for free school meals, or you have previously been eligible within the last six years

• You live in a postcode area in Deciles 1-3 of the IMD measure

• You are care experienced

• You are estranged

We have limited spaces available, so use the lists above to help make sure you hit the criteria before you apply. A full breakdown of our eligibility criteria can be found in the FAQs.

How do I apply?

Applications for Uni Unlocked 2026 will open on Monday 20 April.

If you’re eligible, then you’ll be considered for a place on Uni Unlocked. If there are more applications than there are spaces, then we’ll randomly select people. If you’ve not been randomly selected, we’ll place you on a waiting list and you may be able to join the activity if someone else drops out.

Frequently asked questions