Access to Higher Education Equivalencies
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are Level 3 qualifications, which are the same level as A Levels. They are designed to prepare students for university-level study and are widely recognised by universities across the UK.
An Access to HE Diploma is a full qualification in its own right, typically completed over 12 to 18 months. It’s a respected academic route that gives learners the knowledge, skills and UCAS points they need to apply for a wide range of degrees.
A Levels
A full Access to Higher Education Diploma is considered equivalent to three A Levels and is recognised as a Level 3 qualification. While A Levels are often taken over two years in school or college, Access Diplomas are designed for adult learners and are usually completed in 12 to 18 months. They provide the same academic level and UCAS tariff – up to 144 points – but offer a more flexible, focused route for those returning to education later in life.
BTECs
BTECs are vocational qualifications that offer a mix of theoretical learning and hands-on experience. Like Access Diplomas, many BTECs are Level 3 qualifications and accepted by universities. However, BTECs are often more technical in focus, and are usually taken over two years. Access Diplomas are better suited to mature learners and those looking for a university-focused route. With subject-specific pathways, built-in academic support, and structured progression, Access to HE can be a stronger choice for higher education applicants.
NVQs
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are centred on demonstrating workplace skills and competence in a specific job role. They can range from Level 1 to Level 5, depending on complexity. While Level 3 NVQs are equivalent in level to Access Diplomas, they are not designed for academic progression. In contrast, Access to HE prepares learners for the rigours of university study – with academic writing, critical thinking, and subject knowledge built into the course. It’s the preferred route for those aiming for degree-level qualifications.
Welsh Baccalaureate
The Welsh Baccalaureate is a Level 3 qualification delivered primarily in Wales, often alongside A Levels or vocational courses. It includes a mix of personal development, project work, and academic study. While it’s accepted by many universities, it doesn’t always offer the depth required for subject-specific degree progression. Access to HE Diplomas provide a more focused academic route, with clearly defined subject pathways – making them a strong alternative for mature learners and career changers across the UK.
T Levels
T Levels are a relatively new technical qualification launched in England, designed to prepare students for skilled employment or apprenticeships. Like Access Diplomas, they are Level 3 qualifications. However, T Levels focus heavily on practical workplace skills, while Access to HE is more academically structured to prepare learners for university. If your goal is higher education, Access Diplomas offer subject-specific pathways and the academic grounding that many degree programmes require.
Do access courses have UCAS points?
Yes. Access to Higher Education Diplomas carry UCAS tariff points, just like A Levels and other Level 3 qualifications. These points are awarded based on your final grades (Pass, Merit or Distinction), and are used by universities to assess your application. The maximum number of UCAS points you can achieve from an Access Diploma is 144 – the equivalent of three A grades at A Level.
How many UCAS points is Access to Higher Education worth?
Here’s how UCAS points are calculated for Access to HE Diplomas:
- 45 credits at Distinction = 144 UCAS points
- 45 credits at Merit = 96 UCAS points
- 45 credits at Pass = 48 UCAS points
This points system is nationally recognised and used by universities across the UK as part of the admissions process.
What is an Access course equivalent to?
Access to HE Diplomas are designed to support progression to higher education – just like A Levels or BTECs.
They are accepted as entry qualifications for thousands of degrees, and are especially common for courses in healthcare, education, social sciences, and the humanities.
Whether you’re returning to education after a break or changing direction later in life, an Access to HE Diploma offers a respected and achievable route into university.
Can Access to HE get me into university?
Absolutely!
Access to Higher Education Diplomas do just that – allow you access to Higher Education institutes like universities. Some of the best universities accept our Diplomas as a means to get on to courses, and each year, tens of thousands of people use this route into uni.
Since Access to HE Diplomas are worth up to 144 UCAS points, you can get accepted into some of the best universities in the UK to study a huge range of subjects.
