Your Guide to University Open Days in 2026
University open days are one of the most important parts of the higher education decision‑making process. They give students and families the chance to visit campuses, speak with staff, and explore courses before submitting UCAS applications.
Whether you’re a student starting your research or a parent supporting a Year 13 child with their final decision, understanding the open‑day cycle can help you plan ahead and avoid missing key dates. We have created a list below of key university open days by region to help you with this.
If you are an expatriate family, here at UK Study Options we can help you with all the preparation needed for your UK university application. Remember – if your Home fee eligibility is unclear, getting clarity and understanding your chances at individual universities before you submit your UCAS application is crucial.
We are offering parents the chance to meet us in person this open day season in the UK to get all your questions answered on your Home fee eligibility. If you are in the UK for university open days, UK Study Options will be offering in person pop-up clinics in Milton Keynes, London and Bournemouth over the summer. Click for all the dates and more information on how to book a meeting.
London
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) – 9 July
Imperial College London – 24 – 25 June, 12 September
Queen Mary University of London – 12 – 13 June
King’s College London – 13 June, 27 June, 11 July, 5 September
UCL – 26 – 27 June
South East England
University of Oxford – 1 – 2 July, 18 September
University of Southampton – 27 – 28 June, 27 September, 11 October, 7 November
South West England
University of Exeter – 27 May, 29 – 30 May
East of England
University of Cambridge – 9 – 10 July, 11 September
Midlands
University of Warwick – 20 June, 27 June, 10 October, 24 October
University of Nottingham – 26 – 27 June, 3 – 4 July, 12 September, 10 October
University of Birmingham – 26 – 27 June, 10 October, 14 November
North West England
University of Manchester – 27 June, 4 July, 3 October, 10 October
University of Liverpool – 19 – 20 June, 26 September, 10 October
Yorkshire & Humber
University of Leeds – 12 – 13 June
University of Sheffield – 20 June, 4 July, 5 September, 17 October, 21 November
University of York – 20 – 21 June
North East England
Durham University – 26 – 27 June
Newcastle University – 26 – 27 June, 3 October, 21 November
Scotland
University of Glasgow – 18 June, 2 September, 3 October, 24 October
University of Edinburgh – 22 June, 26 September, 24 October
University of St Andrews – 24 June (virtual)
Wales
Cardiff University – 26 – 27 June
Most open days run from 9am – 4pm, with various events taking place at different intervals. So, plan your day to ensure you get the most out of your visit. We’ve put together a downloadable checklist to help you get the most out of your open day.
Understanding when events happen and how to prepare, ensures students get the most from every visit.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the whole application process? Our popular university guidance packages are now open for families planning ahead for 2027 admissions and beyond. Early support means more time to strengthen applications and reduce stress. Click to find out more about our Admission Support services
Disclaimer: Open Day dates are subject to change and true at the time of publishing. Please register your interest with individual universities for the latest updates.
