For further information about progression routes into Higher Education, click on one of the links below:

Directgov

Routes guide (PDF)

Routes into Higher Education
A range of academic and vocational qualifications allow progression onto Higher Education courses. Relevant work experience may also be taken into account, particularly for mature students. The exact qualifications and grades needed for courses are dependent on the type and level of the course you wish to study, as well as the university or college you opt to study at. If you are unsure about entry requirements for a particular course, you should contact the institution offering it and they will be able to provide you with more details.

In general, accepted qualifications for Higher Education courses include A-levels, AVCEs, BTECs and Access Courses. In addition, students will typically need GCSE grade A*-C passes in Maths and English.

Students holding vocational level 3 qualifications (i.e. NVQ3, BTEC National Diploma) often progress onto Higher National Certificates (HNCs), Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), Foundation Degrees or other level 4 vocational courses.  However, these students are also able to study more academic Higher Education courses, such as Honours Degrees, if they prefer.

Qualification requirements for entry to Higher Education for mature students vary from those of younger students and any relevant experience a mature student has will be taken into account. Prospective mature students should check prospectuses and websites to find out what is expected of them. They can also contact institutions direct for advice prior to applying.

For further information about progression routes into Higher Education  click here.