Alternative Routes to University
The most traditional route to university is to sit your GCSE exams and then take A Levels, but there are other alternative routes. This publication will mostly focus on GCSE and A Level choices however below is The National Qualification Framework (a table comparing different qualifications in the UK) so you can see some of the alternative routes you could take. ALWAYS check with an advisor and individual universities if you wish to take an alternative route to make sure you are not limiting your options. www.dcsf.gov.uk/14-19
CONSIDER OPTIONS 14
GCSE
Higher or Advanced Diploma
Further Education
Foundation or Higher Diploma
GCSE / A Level
Higher Education
Foundation Learning
CONSIDER OPTIONS 16
Functional Skills and Personal, Learning and Thinking Skills 8
Thinking About University
Foundation Learning
CONSIDER OPTIONS 18
Apprenticeship post 18
Apprenticeships
Employment
Employment with training
Employment with training
There are, of course, many other options after you turn 18, including a gap year and volunteering.