Space to Explore Potential (STEP)

What is STEP?

STEP offers a dedicated space for young Black-heritage students, to explore not only their own potential but all that Durham has to offer as a potential university destination. We welcome applications from Year 12 Black-heritage students, who attend UK State Schools. 

STEP consists of a summer residential, along with online information and guidance through Year 12 and 13. If you successfully gain a place on STEP, you will have the opportunity to:

• meet current Durham University students and quiz them on their experiences;
• get the chance to visit Durham and live in one of our 17 colleges;
• have taster sessions with at least two of our academic departments;
• network with likeminded people from across the country;
• access key information, advice and guidance about the UCAS application process;
• receive a guaranteed, alternative offer (typically two grades below) for a programme of study at Durham.

Need more info on what you can choose to study? You can find out information on what subjects are on offer in 2023, and any requirements needed for them, by clicking here.

Want to find out more about the STEP programme? You can read our STEP Brochure 2023 here, and you can talk to the STEP Team at one of our events. Find out what events we are hosting, click here.

STEP 2023 

STEP will open for applications on 6th February 2023 for current Year 12 students.  For more updates, register your interest here.

Who can apply for STEP?

To check whether you are eligible for STEP view our 2023 STEP Eligibility and Selection Criteria.

Durham University's STEP programme aims to support students who are typically underrepresented in Higher Education and particularly at Durham. As places are limited and highly sought after, we use our eligibility and selection criteria to help us identify those applicants who we feel will benefit the most from the programme.