'Before this programme, I never even considered Bath, but learning about the placement year, how much help and support is available, and seeing the beautiful campus in person changed my mind.'
'The highlight was definitely the summer residential; it was one of the reasons I applied in the first place. Who doesn’t want to spend a few days in the summer away from their parents, and for free?!’
'I received a huge amount of support that I wouldn’t have otherwise gotten'
Bath Ambitions
Explore university life, build confidence, and prepare for your future with Bath Ambitions—a free programme for Year 12 students of Black heritage.
What is Bath Ambitions?
Bath Ambitions (formerly Target Bath) is a free Year 12 programme for Black African and Caribbean heritage students across the UK. You’ll explore life at Bath, discover what studying here is really like, and get personalised support to make confident choices about your future.
Through talks, adviser 1:1s, and visits, you’ll meet current Black students and graduates who’ve been where you are now. You’ll also get help with next steps in your journey to university, writing your personal statement, and navigating UCAS.
In Year 13 you'll stay connected through our Apply with Bath programme — including 1:1 personal statement feedback and continued advice from current students and specialist staff.
Complete the programme and you may also be eligible for a guaranteed conditional offer.
What will you do
As part of Bath Ambitions, you’ll:
- Connect with current Black students and hear what life at Bath is really like.
- Be part of a supportive community where you can share ideas and experiences.
- Get personalised advice to help make the right decisions for you.
- Receive guidance on your personal statement and UCAS application.
- Visit Bath for an overnight stay on campus — with the option to bring a parent or carer.
- In Year 13, continue your journey through Apply with Bath, with extra support and interactions with student ambassadors and staff
Testimonials
Bath Ambitions was formerly called Target Bath. Here's what some of the recent programme participants said about their experience.
Who can apply
Bath Ambitions is available to UK based Year 12 students who:
- Are of Black African, Black Caribbean, Black Other or mixed Black heritage
- Have achieved 5 or more GCSEs at grades 9, 8, 7 or 6
- Are aiming to study at a high-achieving university like Bath.
- Are on track academically to study their chosen subject at Bath
The University of Bath doesn’t offer courses in Law or Medicine, so please check what’s available before applying - here are the current course pages.
Priority will be given to students who meet our widening participation criteria.
Applications are open!
Contextual Offer
All Bath Ambitions participants who apply to study at Bath will receive additional consideration during the application process.
You will be considered for contextual admissions if you meet our Widening Participation Criteria. Contextual offers help to promote fairness and are available if you are studying A levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. For most courses contextual offers are two grades lower than the typical entry requirements, however there are some exceptions. Check our contextual offers page for details.
In addition, having completed the Bath Ambitions programme successfully, you may be eligible to receive a guaranteed conditional offer.
FAQs
Find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
Q: Why should I apply to Bath Ambitions?
A: Because this programme is designed to help you explore what’s possible. You’ll build skills, gain insider advice, and connect with people who’ve made it to Bath — all for free. Even if you don’t apply here, you’ll come away more confident and prepared for university life.
Q: How do you decide who gets onto the programme?
A: We’re looking for motivated students who are curious, ambitious, and excited about their future. We’ll look at your grades, but most importantly, your passion — which you can show in your short written statement.
These things will be assessed through an online application form including a written statement of interest.
Q: How much does Bath Ambitions cost?
A: Nothing at all. Bath Ambitions is free, and we can help with travel costs if you need support getting to the in-person event.
Q: How many places are there?
A: We usually offer between 50 and 100 places each year.
Q: Will I have to miss school?
A: Not for online sessions — these take place in the evenings or holidays. You might need to miss one day of school for the residential, but we’ll let you know well in advance.
Q: When does the programme run?
A: From February to July, with regular contact from Bath Ambitions staff and Student Ambassadors.
Q: What if I don’t get a place on Bath Ambitions?
A: Don’t let that stop you. There are lots of other ways to get involved with Bath, from events to other opportunities. You can also complete our opportunities form to get personalised suggestions.
Contact us
If you have any questions or want to talk to someone before submitting an application, please use the details below.