Getting into university and higher education

When it comes to higher education, there are lots of options available and it's not necessarily about getting A levels. You can study full-time for work-related qualifications, an apprenticeship or Advanced Diploma qualification.

Higher Education: information for undergraduates and postgraduates

Completing a course of study within higher education brings benefits on many levels. In terms of your future job, a degree can lead to increased earning potential, greater opportunities and a more rewarding career.

If you are already pursuing a career, a higher education course can increase your employment prospects and many employers have woken up to the value of ongoing lifelong learning programmes for their staff. But there is far more to higher education than just studying.

Universities and higher education colleges are thriving social and cultural centres, with much to offer students of any age, nationality or social background. Many graduates would agree with the old cliché that your student days are the best days of your life.

Studying can be costly, so it is important to think about your reasons for entering higher education and to make sure you are committed. You should also choose a course that will promote your career aspiratons and think carefully about how you will fund yourself while studying. In addition, it is a good idea to be aware of the support and guidance available for you if you run into difficulties during your study.

Routes into higher education: what are your options?

Universities and colleges set their own entry requirements, so they vary from course to course. When you’re choosing what to do at 16, it’s important to find out what qualifications and grades you are likely to need for the type of higher education course you want to do. For full-time courses, you can look up entry requirements on the UCAS website. For part-time courses, get the university or college prospectus – most are now available online.

Higher education courses - search through UCAS (do it online section)

Depending on the course you want to do, there are two main routes that could potentially get you into higher education:

staying in full-time education
learning while you work

Staying in full-time education

If you decide to stay in full-time education after Year 12, there are a range of academic, work-related and skills-based qualifications you can potentially use to get into higher education.

Generally speaking, you’ll need qualifications at level 3 on the National Qualifications Framework. For UK students, this usually means:

A Levels
an Advanced Diploma
NVQs
BTEC National Diplomas and Certificates
GCEs in applied subjects

You can also count Key Skills qualifications towards your application. These are the essential skills that employers need their workers to have. Students from outside the United Kingdom can apply for courses with qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate, European Baccalaureate and Irish Leaving Certificate.

Qualifications explained - find out more

Learning while you work

If you want to start work after Year 12, an apprenticeship can be a good route into higher education. You’ll usually need to take an Advanced Apprenticeship. This leads to an NVQ at level 3 on the National Qualifications Framework. As an apprentice, you will also study for Key Skills, a technical certificate or other qualification relevant to your job. These can also count towards entry into higher education.

Apprenticeships - more information

For some courses, like many Foundation Degrees for example, the institution you apply to will look at your work experience as well as your qualifications.

Voluntary work placements (young people section)

Help with study costs

If you decide to go for higher education, there is financial help available. For full-time courses, you can apply for Student Loans to cover your fees and living costs. You won’t have to start paying these back until you have left your course and are earning over £15,000 per year.

You may also qualify for a non-repayable Maintenance Grant. There may be extra, non-repayable help available if you have a disability, or if you have children or adult dependants. You may be able to get additional help through a bursary from your university or college.