Access to higher education

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FE staff's frequently asked questions

These are some of the most frequently asked questions we get asked by FE staff. If you have a particular question we haven't answered here, please feel free to contact us at access@qaa.ac.uk.

More detailed information about Access to HE courses

  1. Where can I find out more details about the structure of the Access to HE Diploma?

UCAS Tariff

  1. Will the Access to HE qualification appear in the UCAS Tariff?

GCSE equivalence

  1. What guidance does QAA give to AVAs when developing and approving GCSE equivalences?

Statistics and data

  1. Where can I find statistical information about Access to HE courses and learners?
  2. I’m interested in how data can be used for setting internal targets or benchmarking for Access to HE provision

Promoting your course

  1. I’m an Access to HE course provider: how do I indicate that my course has national recognition?

HE Admissions

  1. Is there any guidance for HE admissions staff in dealing with applications from Access to HE students?

More detailed information about Access to HE courses

Where can I find out more details about the structure of the Access to HE Diploma?

You can find more information on the Access to HE Diploma and credit specifications page on the QAA website.

UCAS Tariff

Will the Access to HE qualification appear in the UCAS Tariff?

UCAS is currently reviewing the Tariff and the way in which it makes information about qualifications available. Details about this review are available from UCAS at www.ucas.com/reviews/qireview/

GCSE equivalence

What guidance does QAA give to AVAs when developing and approving GCSE equivalences?

Read the GCSE equivalence guidance.

Statistics and data

Where can I find statistical information about Access to HE courses and learners?

Since 2001, QAA has published statistical reports on Access to HE courses and learners. Take a look at the statistical reports.

I’m interested in how data can be used for setting internal targets or benchmarking for Access to HE provision

The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) has provided a statement on this matter.

Promoting your course

I’m an Access to HE course provider: how do I indicate that my course has national recognition?

Access to HE courses that have been approved by a licensed AVA are listed in the Access to HE courses database and can be described as ‘QAA-recognised’ or ‘recognised by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education’. They may also use the appropriate Access to HE logo. For further advice on promoting your course contact your AVA.

HE Admissions

Is there any guidance for HE admissions staff in dealing with applications from Access to HE students?

Yes, we’ve produced guidelines for higher education admissions staff.