For learners  who do not have the qualifications needed to go to University, Access to Higher Education programmes can help. The programmes are designed for mature students, including those with very few or no previous qualifications, and for those who have been out of education for some time. Learners who successfully complete an Access to HE programme will be awarded a QAA-recognised Access to Higher Education Certificate. This certificate is accepted by Universities as an appropriate entry qualification for most undergraduate programmes.

Access to HE programmes are usually flexible and timetabled to suit those with personal, domestic and other responsibilities. Access to HE programmes may be offered in one year, or part-time study over two or more years is often possible. Some providers offer evening sessions as well.

There are no formal entrance requirements for these programmes. However, learners do need basic Numeracy and Literacy skills to cope with a programme of this nature. Many providers offer pre-Access programmes/sessions for those learners who need to develop/refresh their basic skills and or confidence prior to undertaking the Access to HE programme.

Learners will usually be interviewed by the provider running the programmes and will be advised as to which course is right for them.

Access to Higher Education Programmes
Access to HE programmes are offered by most Further Education Colleges, many offering a range of Units or Modules that can be combined to make up the full Access to HE Certificate. All programmes use a variety of assessment activities that prepare learners for the type of assessment they will encounter at University.

All Access to HE programmes are approved by QAA, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, through the Open College Network East Midlands Region. This national standard ensures that learners’ achievements will be recognised by all Universities and enables Access to HE learners to apply to their chosen University through the same process as other students.

Entry Requirements
There are no specific academic entry requirements for Access to HE, though learners do need to demonstrate sufficient Numeracy and Literacy skills.

Providers of Access to HE programmes all offer initial and ongoing advice and guidance about their own programmes and progression to University diplomas and degrees.