What are Access to HE courses?
What if, a bit later in life, you decide you want to go to university but didn’t have the opportunity to get the right entry qualifications before? Don’t let that stop you - that’s just the situation that Access to Higher Education (HE) courses were designed for. We look at what they are all about. For most people, going to university is something they will do in their late teens or early twenties, after they have done A Levels, BTECs or other Level 3 qualifications. But that’s not the case for everyone. There could be lots of reasons why this traditional route wasn’t right for you, but it’s never too late to consider Higher Education. Some University Admissions Tutors will consider things like life-experience and industry qualifications when looking at applications, and it’s always worth checking with the Admissions Tutor to get their advice. However, a qualification such as Access to HE can really boost your chances of acceptance and success on your chosen course.
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Make The Future Yours! Issue 3
What is Access to HE? The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma is a Level 3 (A Level equivalent) qualification designed to prepare adults to study in HE. They are open to residents of England, Wales and Northern Ireland and are typically a one-year, full-time course. Increasingly, many are being offered as online/distance learning options which might be more flexible to fit around your existing commitments. They are not usually suitable for younger applicants, so they are not offered as a substitute to A Levels at 16. Learners suited to an Access to HE course will usually have been out of education for at least a year, but probably longer. You will also need to hold GCSE English and Maths or equivalent Level 2 qualifications at grade C/4 or higher.
