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Access To Higher Education

Access to Higher Education (Access to HE) Courses for Adults in England

If you want to go to university but don’t have traditional qualifications such as A-levels, an Access to Higher Education course (often called an Access to HE Diploma) could help you move forward. Access courses are designed for adults who want to progress to university-level study. They are widely accepted by universities across England. This guide explains what an Access course is, who it is for, how funding works, and how it compares with other routes such as free Level 3 courses and apprenticeships. If you are exploring all funded learning options, you may also want to visit our free funded courses guide.

What is an Access to Higher Education course?

An Access to Higher Education (Access to HE) Diploma is a Level 3 qualification designed to prepare adults for university study. Access to Higher Education courses are regulated qualifications that focus on building academic skills, subject knowledge, and confidence for higher education. They are usually completed over one academic year (full-time) or longer if studied part-time. Access courses focus on a specific subject area, such as:
  • nursing and healthcare
  • social work
  • teaching and education
  • business and law
  • engineering
  • psychology
  • science-based subjects
The Access to Higher Education Diploma gives you the academic skills and subject knowledge needed to start a degree.

Who are Access courses for?

Access courses are mainly for adults aged 19+ who:
  • did not take A-levels
  • did not achieve the grades needed for university
  • have been out of education for several years
  • want to retrain for a professional career
Many learners choose Access courses after raising a family, changing careers, or working in a different sector.

What level is an Access to Higher Education course?

An Access to Higher Education Diploma is a Level 3 qualification. This is the same level as A-levels. If you are comparing options, see our guide to free Level 3 courses. The difference is that Access courses are specifically designed to prepare you for university, not just employment.

Do universities accept Access to Higher Education courses?

Yes. Most universities in England accept Access to HE Diplomas. However, entry requirements vary. Universities may ask for:
  • a certain number of Distinction or Merit grades
  • specific subject units (for example science units for nursing)
  • GCSE English and maths at grade 4 (C) or equivalent
If you do not have GCSE English or maths, Functional Skills Level 2 is often accepted as an alternative:

How long does an Access to Higher Education course take?

Most Access courses take:
  • one academic year full-time
  • two years part-time
You will usually complete assignments, coursework, and assessments rather than final exams only.

How much does an Access to Higher Education course cost?

Access courses are not usually free in the same way as Level 2 or some Level 3 courses. However, many adults take out an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the course fees. The important point is this: if you complete your university degree, the Advanced Learner Loan for your Access course is usually written off. This makes Access courses an affordable route for many adults who want to go to university.

Access to Higher Education course vs Free Level 3 courses

If you are deciding between an Access course and another Level 3 qualification, the key difference is your goal.

Choose an Access course if:

  • your goal is university
  • you want structured academic preparation
  • you need a recognised route into higher education

Choose another Level 3 course if:

  • your goal is employment rather than university
  • you want a vocational qualification
  • you qualify for fully funded Level 3 study
Compare options here:

Access to Higher Education course vs Apprenticeship

If you want to earn while you learn, an apprenticeship may be a better fit. Apprenticeships are paid jobs with training and can also lead to higher education through higher or degree apprenticeships. Explore:

Entry requirements for Access to Higher Education courses

Entry requirements vary by provider, but many require:
  • Level 2 English and maths
  • a short interview
  • a written task or assessment
If you need to improve basic qualifications first, start with:

How to apply for an Access to Higher Education course

  1. Choose your intended degree subject.
  2. Check university entry requirements.
  3. Find an Access course that matches the subject area.
  4. Apply directly to the college or provider.
  5. Arrange funding (for example Advanced Learner Loan).
It helps to speak to university admissions teams before enrolling to confirm the Access diploma is accepted for your chosen degree.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an Access course the same as A-levels?

No. It is a different qualification, but it is also Level 3 and widely accepted by universities.

Can I do an Access course without GCSEs?

Many providers require English and maths at Level 2. Functional Skills Level 2 is often accepted as an alternative to GCSE grade 4 (C).

Is the Access course loan written off?

In most cases, if you complete your university degree, the Advanced Learner Loan for your Access course is written off.

Next steps

If university is your goal, an Access course could be your pathway.
  • Confirm the degree you want to study.
  • Check university entry requirements.
  • Compare Access courses in your area.
  • Arrange funding and apply.
You do not need traditional qualifications to move forward. Many adults take the Access route successfully every year.