Information for Access to HE Students

Access to HE students

Your Route to University

An Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma is a recognised Level 3 qualification designed for adults who want to progress to university but may not have the traditional qualifications typically required for higher education.

Whether you’re returning to education after a break, looking to change career, or working towards a profession such as nursing, teaching, social work or another specialist field, an Access to HE Diploma can help you take the next step towards your goals.

Gateway Qualifications works with colleges and training providers across the England and Wales that deliver Access to HE Diplomas, supporting students on their journey to higher education and beyond.

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Is an Access to HE Diploma Right for You?

An Access to HE Diploma may be suitable if you:

  • Want to go to university but do not have A Levels or equivalent qualifications
  • Left education some time ago and are ready to return to learning
  • Are considering a career change
  • Want to progress into a profession that requires a degree
  • Need a recognised alternative route into higher education
  • Are looking to build your confidence before starting university

Many students choose Access to HE because it offers a clear progression route into higher education and helps them achieve goals that may have previously felt out of reach.

Successfully completing an Access to HE Diploma provides a valuable qualification in its own right. Therefore, even if you are not ready to progress to university immediately, it still evidences the knowledge, skills and understanding you have developed through Level 3 study.

Access to HE Students Progressing to Higher Education

Where Could an Access Diploma Take You?

An Access to HE Diploma can be the first step towards university and a new career.

Whether your goal is to become a nurse, teacher, social worker, scientist or business professional, it can provide a recognised pathway to higher education and help you achieve your ambitions.

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Access to HE and UCAS Points

If you’re considering university, you may be wondering how Access to HE Diplomas fit into the university admissions process.

Many universities accept Access to HE Diplomas as an entry qualification for degree programmes. Entry requirements can vary depending on the university, course and subject area, and some institutions may specify particular grade profiles or subject requirements.

Explore Access to HE & UCAS Points

Learner Success Stories

Access to HE logo

How the Access to HE Diploma takes learners to UEL degrees

Access to HE Diploma
Newham College London Logo

How a Newham College Access to HE student won a place at Cambridge

Newham College
Hertford Regional College Logo

How Hertford Regional College’s Access to HE route leads to nursing

Hertford Regional College

Frequently Asked Questions

Browse answers to the questions learners ask us most often, from qualification information and certificates to provider support and next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an Access to HE Diploma take?

Most Access to HE Diplomas can be completed in one year of full-time study. Part-time options are also available through many training providers.

Do I need any qualifications to start an Access to HE course?

Entry requirements vary between providers and courses. You should contact the provider directly to discuss your individual circumstances.

Am I too old to study an Access to HE Diploma?

No. Access to HE Diplomas are specifically designed for adult learners and are studied by people of all ages who want to progress to university.

Can I go to university with an Access to HE Diploma?

Yes. Access to HE Diplomas are widely accepted by universities as a route into higher education, although entry requirements vary by institution and course.

Can I get funding for an Access to HE Diploma?

If you’re aged 19 or over, you may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan to help cover the cost of your Access to HE Diploma.

One of the key benefits of this funding is that, if you go on to complete an eligible higher education course, any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan taken out for your Access to HE Diploma may be written off, meaning you won’t need to repay it.

Funding eligibility and loan arrangements can vary, so we recommend checking the latest guidance and speaking to your chosen training provider for advice.

Find Out About Advanced Learner Loans

Will my Higher Education Provider/University accept my certificate?

If you have achieved an Access to Higher Education Diploma it is a nationally recognised qualification, regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and will be accepted by most UK universities.

You should always check with the institution you intend to study at as they may have other entry requirements that you also need to meet, or require your Access to Higher Education Diploma to have specific subject focus.

Certificates do not have an expiry date, but some HE providers may require evidence of recent study.

How do I apply?

You can begin by finding a college or training provider that offers the subject area you’re interested in studying.

Find a Training Provider Near You

How can I check my UCAS points?

The number of Tariff points for the Access to HE Diploma varies between 48 and 144 points, dependent on your grade profile.

For full details please read our guide to UCAS tariff.