Lines now open
- Click here to Speak to a course adviser now
or call us on 01202 006 464

Enrol Today for Access to Higher Education Diplomas Online

Online and workplace learning with RQF, Endorsed and Certified qualifications

Welcome to the learndirect Faculty for Access to Higher Education Diploma courses, where you can gain entry to most universities without the need for A-Levels. If you have ambitions of becoming a nurse, a teacher, a midwife, an engineer, or another high-level profession, you will likely need a degree to achieve your goals.

Traditionally, to secure a place at university you would need a certain number of A Levels, but now, most universities accept Access to HE Diplomas as equivalent qualifications. learndirect can help you move up to degree-level study by offering a range of accredited Access to Higher Education Diploma courses in an array of subjects.

Our career-specific courses are delivered online, giving you the freedom to tailor your study schedule around your existing commitments. What’s more, you won’t have to take any exams, and you could complete your course in less than a year! Learners have two years to finish an Access to HE Diploma, but on average, our learners take around 9 months.

While most universities accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas, we advise that you check the entry requirements of your chosen establishment before applying. By studying our nationally recognised online courses, you will gain essential foundational knowledge of a chosen subject, preparing you for your degree.

Enrol today to give yourself the best chance of studying a university degree!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re wondering “What is a Access Course?”, or “What is Access Course?”, it’s a Level 3 qualification designed to prepare adults without traditional qualifications (like A-Levels) for university study. So, what does Access to Higher Education mean? It means you can gain the knowledge, skills, and UCAS points needed to progress into higher education. These courses are widely recognised as an alternative route into university, making them ideal for career changers or those returning to education later in life.
Yes, you can. While traditional colleges may offer Access to Higher Education evening courses, learndirect’s online Access to HE Diplomas give you complete flexibility. You can study part-time around your work or family commitments, choosing when and where to learn. This means you can achieve your qualification without putting the rest of your life on hold.
Absolutely. All of learndirect’s Access to Higher Education Diplomas are QAA-recognised, which means they meet the quality standards required by universities. You can be confident that your qualification is widely accepted as a valid entry route into higher education.
If you’re wondering about universities that accept Access Courses, the good news is that most UK universities do. Each university sets its own entry requirements, so it’s important to check with the institution you’re interested in. However, Access to HE Diplomas are specifically designed to provide a recognised pathway into higher education and are accepted by the majority of universities across the UK.
Your Access to Higher Education Diploma doesn’t technically expire, once you’ve earned it, the qualification is yours for life. However, many universities prefer applicants to have studied within the last 2–3 years to ensure their knowledge is current. Because of this, it’s always best to confirm directly with the universities you’re applying to.

Rated by our learners

Rated Excellent by our learners

4.5 out of 5

Based on 32,565 Trustpilot reviews

Read all reviews →
Verified

I needed not to explain myself for long…

I needed not to explain myself for long and it was just straight forward, pearl was just excellent in dealing with me, l really appreciate.

EMMANUEL V. 12 Oct 2026
Verified

My experience with learn direct has been great!

My experience with learn direct is entirely positive and I am very thankful to them. In particular Mr Tom Rawlinson. Tom was very supportive, when I was curious or needed help with my application. He was very consistent as well in his communication and I am thankful for his perseverance. He was always polite and professional. Learn direct are very friendly, welcoming and I am so excited to start my new course shortly.

Charlotte K. 12 Oct 2026
Verified

Peter was very helpful in answering any…

Peter was very helpful in answering any questions i had and helped me enroll in the course. Very friendly and simple signing up process.

Esme D. 10 Oct 2026
Verified

Seamless registration

Abraham Adeoya who attended to me was very patient, respectful and detailed in helping me go through the registration successfully. His human relation skill his top notch and his Knowledge of the job or practise is appreciable.

BAMIDELE E. 10 Oct 2026
Verified

Dan did a great job answering all my…

Dan did a great job answering all my queries and by giving me full information about the course.

Sy 10 Oct 2026
Verified

Was on the phone to a Courtney she was…

Was on the phone to a Courtney she was amazing so easy to chat to and answered all my questions

kelly M. 10 Oct 2026
Ready when you are

Take the next step in your learning journey

Course tips, career advice and exclusive offers, straight to your inbox. No spam, just guidance.

Accredited & trusted

Working with the UK's leading awarding bodies

Call us
today