What qualifications will I need?
Flexible
Entrance to higher level courses can be more flexible than you think. Anyone studying at level 3 on a vocational course or an Access course can apply. Higher education is also available to Advanced Apprentices and those with higher level NVQ qualifications. Mature students (over 21) may be admitted without formal qualifications if they have relevant experience (although evidence of the ability to study at a higher level may be required).
Variable
Entrance qualifications vary between courses and between universities and colleges. The higher your grades, the more choices you will have open to you. However, even if you have a basic pass there will be courses to suit you. The secret of success is to research your options carefully so that you apply for appropriate courses for the qualifications you have or expect to achieve.
Level 2 requirements
For most higher education courses, you will also need some qualifications at level 2 (GCSE or equivalent). English is almost a universal requirement and GCSE is preferred, although for mature applicants an equivalent may be acceptable. Some courses will also require evidence of competence in maths, and occasionally science, depending on the course content.
Work experience
For some courses - usually vocational - you would not be considered without some work experience (paid or voluntary) or work shadowing. Examples include teaching and physiotherapy, but there are many others where this is a distinct advantage. You should check this out early on - if you are on a two year course at college you will ideally need to have work experience before the start of your second year, so that you can mention it on your application. The point of the work experience is to show that you can cope in the relevant environment, that you genuinely understand what is involved in the vocational area and career you are applying for, and that you have the commitment to follow it through.
Extra-curricular activity
For college students, extra-curricular activity either in or out of college can also be an advantage. It doesn't matter whether you are captain of a rugby team or play in a darts team, dance, breed hamsters, play in a band or are a karaoke star - the point is it shows you are a well-rounded and sociable person with some commitment to the things you enjoy.
The tariff
For higher education applications, most qualifications fit into what is called the 'tariff' - a points score system devised by UCAS (Universities and Colleges
Admissions Service). When you apply for a course you may be asked for particular grades, or to achieve a certain number of UCAS tariff points. The UCAS website and individual University and college websites will give details of the grades or points required for each course.
View UCAS tariff tables online >
Mature students
Mature students (those over the age of 21) may not always need the qualifications stated; work and life experience is taken into account, and alternatives such as Access qualifications are widely acceptable. Check with the website, with your adviser, or with the university or college directly.
I need help!
Contact the Higher Futures adviser in your nearest college or university.
Contact your Higher Futures adviser >