Disclosure and Barring Service Checks

If your course includes a placement involving volunteering or working with vulnerable adults or children then you will be required to undergo an enhanced criminal disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Applying for an Enhanced Disclosure

Swansea University uses an online system to apply for DBS checks, via First Advantage. Students that require an enhanced disclosure will be sent a link prompting them to self-register. This email will include:

  • Organisation Pin
  • Secret Word
  • The position you are applying for

If you have been told that you need a DBS check and require the application link to be sent to you, then please email your faculty.

When starting your application select the ‘Register’ option on the right-hand side of the screen.

If you have any of the following then you will be asked to provide details:

  • National Insurance Number
  • Valid Driving Licence
  • Valid Passport
  • Valid national ID card

When you are prompted to provide your position title, it is important you enter this exactly as it appears in your email. Failure to do so may cause a delay in your application.

There will be a question asking you whether you would like to be kept informed about the progress of your DBS application. We would recommend that you tick this box so you know when it has been approved.

Once completed you will need to print out a document to take to a Post Office that offers the CRB & ID Verification Service, together with your original identification documents to be verified.  Please see further below regarding valid Post Office locations. You will also need to arrange payment of your DBS Clearance check at the Post Office. The cost for the DBS check is £53.42. 

Finding a Post Office

Please note that not all Post Offices perform the DBS identification checks. To find a Post Office that offers this service please use the Post Office branch finder. Filter locations that include the “CRB & ID Verification Service”. Please DO NOT select DBS ID VALIDATION SERVICE as this service is not compatible with the barcoded sheet you will be taking in for verification.

For further assistance, please refer to the First Advantage user guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Track My Application?

Applicants can track the status of their application by via the First Advantage platform. Alternatively, you can use the DBS tracking service.

When Will I Receive My Results? Do I Need to Send You My Certificate?