Access to Higher Education

We are passionate about supporting learners in our community who wish to continue their education or maybe make a change in their career. Access to Higher Education (HE) Diplomas can be a great way to do this so click below to discover your new career.

The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma is a qualification which prepares students for study at degree level. If you would like to go to university but left school without the qualifications you need, or you are thinking of a career change, then an Access to HE course could be for you.

Come along to our next Open Event or contact us today to find the right Access course for you.

If you are unable to apply online, please contact the Adult Advice Hub on 01392 400170 or adultadvice@exe-coll.ac.uk.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose Access?

Who can apply?

Fees

What financial support is available?

Mature Access Pathway

The Mature Access Pathway supports all Access to Higher Education students at Exeter College in partnership with the University of Exeter. It aims to support you with the journey and transition to Higher Education, if that is what you decide to do, but also get a feel for university life before you start your studies.

You will experience what studying at university is like and develop study skills through talks, workshops and on campus experiences. There will be opportunities to speak with staff, mentors and current undergraduate students who will ensure you receive all the information, advice and guidance required to make educated choice about your future.

You will be supported through your application to Higher Education and, if you decide to apply to the University of Exeter, by completing the Mature Access Pathway you will receive a guaranteed contextual level offer. You will also receive extra support when you start at the University of Exeter, including an enhanced induction programme, and other packages. All will be detailed in the introductory session.

Large group of Access students smiling at the camera.

Adults learning maths in a classroom

GCSE English and Maths

For those who do not have a GCSE grade C or 4 or above in English and/or Maths, these courses are offered free of charge (providing you are a British Citizen or from the European Union). It is advisable to acquire these qualifications before applying for Access to HE unless you know for certain that the university you hope to go to does not require one or both of these qualifications in addition to an Access Certificate. You should have written confirmation of this from the university attached to your Access application form.


Financial Support with the Advanced Learner Loan

If you are aged 19+ and studying a Level 3 to Level 6 qualification, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to pay for course fees. For more details of how you can cover the costs of your course with an Advanced Learner Loan, click here.

If you have any questions about the Advanced Learner Loan, please do not hesitate to contact our Adult Advice Team on 01392 400170 or adultadvice@exe-coll.ac.uk.

Two Access students in class