Learn about how Access programmes can prepare students for higher education

Access to HE courses offer a route into higher education (HE) for those who do not have the educational qualifications which are usually required for entry to HE. These courses provide the underpinning knowledge and skills needed for university-level study, and lead to the award of the Access to HE qualification, which is of an equivalent standard to Level 3 qualifications, such as A levels.

The possible pattern of study varies between courses, but Access to HE courses are commonly available as full-time, one year, courses or part-time courses which can be studied over two or more years, sometimes including evening study. Most courses are delivered in further education colleges, although some adult education centres, community centres and universities also offer Access to HE courses.

Please visit the Access to HE website for further information and to access the course search facility.

For information about programmes taught in Scotland, please visit the Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) website.