The University’s Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) team help manage the online DBS check application process for you. It will probably happen during the summer before you start your course. It’s a straightforward process that guides you step-by-step – but remember, providing accurate information from the start will help your check run smoothly.
The DBS check process:
Once you have received an unconditional offer to study at the University, which you have accepted and confirmed, your DBS check can get underway. You will receive an email with information about how to log onto the online application. So, keep an eye on your email, including your junk email folder, and remember it’s really important to check that your personal details are accurate at this stage. The online application will guide you through the process and will prompt you to input some further details, including your name and address history for the last 5 years.
As part of the DBS application process you will need to get your identity verified. The online system will prompt you to select the identification needed to complete your DBS application and will provide you with a list of documents that you can choose from. Please read the guidance that is available on the Government DBS webpages for further information about what documents are acceptable.
All students should try to provide documents from ‘Route 1’ before taking any other option. If you can’t provide the documents listed in ‘Route 1’ then one of the other routes may be possible.
Please make sure you read all the relevant guidance as this differs between applicants who are a national of the UK and applicants who are not a national of the UK. There is also specific guidance for students who have an unusual address, for example if you are living abroad or in student accommodation.
There are several different ID pathways available including Digital ID checks, Post Office ID Checks, Remote ID checks and face-to-face internal ID checks. The ID pathway will be selected for you by the DBS Team at the point your DBS application is created. This will depend on where you are living and whether you have started your course.
If you do not have the required documentation for a Digital ID check you are given the option to change this to a post office ID check.
Once your application has been completed online, it’s sent to the Disclosure and Barring Service. They check your details against police records and barred list information where applicable. If you’ve applied for an enhanced DBS check your details will also be checked with local police forces.
It’s difficult to say exactly how long your check will take, as every person has different circumstances. Most DBS checks are completed within six weeks, but the process can take up to eight weeks and sometimes it takes longer.
Once all the checks have been done, you’ll receive your DBS certificate by post to the address that you provided.
If you haven’t received your DBS certificate within 14 days of it being dispatched, you can request a free reprint by calling 0300 020 0190. Note that the DBS centre can only reissue certificates up to 93 days after the original date of issue.
If the name on your DBS application is incorrect, it means it has been added incorrectly to the online system. You can amend this easily yourself by updating your name as it appears on your online application form.
You won’t be able to get one – you’re only given one copy, so make sure you look after it as it can’t be replaced if it gets lost or destroyed. The University is not sent a copy.