12 Pathways to University — No A-Levels Required
The Access to Higher Education Diploma is the UK's most popular route to university for adult learners. Choose from 12 subject pathways, all accredited by Open College Network London.
Browse CoursesYour Journey
Choose Your Pathway
Pick from 12 subjects — healthcare, science, business, psychology, and more.
Study Online
Learn at your own pace with instant study support and expert tutor guidance.
Earn Your Diploma
Complete your nationally recognised Level 3 qualification in around 12 months.
Apply to University
Your Access to HE Diploma is accepted by 100+ UK universities for degree entry.
Career FAQs
It's a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed for adults aged 19+ who want to study at university but don't have traditional A-levels. It covers the academic content and study skills you need to succeed at degree level.
Over 100 UK universities accept the Access to HE Diploma, including Russell Group institutions. Each university sets its own entry requirements, but the diploma is widely recognised as equivalent to A-levels for mature applicants.
Most pathways are designed to be completed in 12 months studying around 15 hours per week. You can study at your own pace — some learners complete faster, others take a little longer.
Yes. If you're 19+ and studying Access to HE for the first time, you may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan. The loan is written off completely when you go on to finish a higher education course.
No formal qualifications are required. The course is designed for adult learners who may have left education without traditional qualifications. We'll assess your readiness to start as part of the enrolment process.
Our Courses
Looking for Nursing? See our dedicated Nursing faculty page for the Access to HE Diploma in Nursing.
Career Progression
Starting point — you may have work experience but no A-levels
Level 3 — equivalent to A-levels for university entry
3–4 year undergraduate degree in your chosen subject
Enter your chosen profession with a recognised qualification
Continue to develop — postgraduate study, senior roles, specialisation
Student Stories
“I left school at 16 and always dreamed of being a midwife. The Access to HE course opened a door I thought was closed forever.”
Guides & Resources
How to Become a Nurse
The most popular Access to HE pathway — learn about the nursing career path.
Read Guide →Funding & Payment
Advanced Learner Loans are available for all Access to HE Diplomas. Your loan is written off completely when you go on to finish a higher education course — so you may never have to repay it.
View Pricing →Ready to Open the Door to University?
Choose from 12 pathways and start studying towards your degree — no A-levels required.