Higher education
Routes into university and higher education
By continuing with full-time learning at an advanced level, work-based learning or starting an Apprenticeship, you can take important steps towards qualifying for a higher education course.
Vocational routes into higher education
You don't have to take the traditional A level route to HE. You may be able to use vocational qualifications to apply to a university or college. To find out more, take a look at the following on the qualifications page:
- NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications)
- Foundation Degrees
- BTEC National Diplomas and Certificates
- Vocational GCSEs in Applied subjects
- Vocational 'A levels' in Applied subjects
- Key skills qualifications
NB You should always check with the relevant college or university for specific entry requirements before making any decisions on which study route you choose.
Along with vocational qualifications, you may also have considerable work experience to offer. If you're applying for a Foundation Degree course in particular, you may find that this is taken into account, alongside any qualifications you hold.
Traditional or vocational route to HE?
Although higher education prospectuses often refer mainly to A levels when they talk about entry requirements, don't be put off - check with the course provider on vocational entry requirements, and if any substantial work experience could be taken into account.
For example, if you have a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND), you may be able to join a first degree course at the start of the second or even third year.
For more information about university and higher education, see Directgov's university and higher education pages or visit our useful links page.
Hear what HE students have to say
But don't just take our word for it - find out more about students who have taken different routes into HE:
