If you have not studied at university level before you can apply for a student loan for your tuition fees.
| Level 8 |
Qualifications are: Doctorate (PhD) To apply for a Level 8 qualification, you need: Level 6-7 qualification |
| Level 7 |
Qualifications are: MA ie, Master’s Degree in Arts MSc ie, Master’s Degree in Science or equivalent To apply for a Level 7 qualification, you need: Level 5-6 qualification |
| Level 6 |
Qualifications are: BA (Hons) ie, Bachelor of Arts Degree BSc (Hons) ie, Bachelor of Science Degree To apply for a Level 6 qualification, you need: Level 3-5 qualification |
| Level 5 |
Qualifications are: NVQ 5 Diploma of Higher Education (= second year at university) Foundation Degree Higher National Diploma To apply for a Level 5 qualification, you need: Level 3-4 qualification |
| Level 4 |
Qualifications are: NVQ 4 Certificate of Higher Education (= first year at university) To apply for a Level 4 qualification, you need: Level 3 qualification |
| Level 3 |
Qualifications are: NVQ 3 A levels International Baccalaureate BTEC National Certificate/Diploma Advanced Diploma Advanced Apprenticeship Access to HE course (adults) To apply for a Level 3 qualification, you usually need: 4-5 GCSEs at grade A*-C. It is possible to apply with Level 2 qualifications such as: GNVQ Intermediate (Merit) or BTEC First Diploma (Merit). |
| Level ? |
Not sure of your qualifications or experience? If you are unsure where you fit into the levels shown then please contact the Information and Guidance Unit for assistance on +44 (0)1227 768896. |
Returning to learning
For students who are returning to learning, we may be able to consider previous experience including work-related skills, alternative qualifications and other information instead of traditional entrance requirements.
Advice is available to guide you about the level of skill needed for all our courses. Please call +44 (0)1227 768896.