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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.

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Jakub was a delight to speak with. Im glad I've have enrolled even with the hesitation and Jakub helped me decide the right decision for me. So thankful for his call and patience

cherie S. 7 Nov 2026
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Missed the sale (40% off) but was called and they honoured it!

I saw by chance they had a 40% off flash sale (2.5 hours only) and tried to pay, but my banking app failed and the window of opportunity closed, meaning it went back to the full price. I got a call shortly afterwards from a lady called Holly who not only talked me through the purchase, but also honoured the original 40% discount which is amazing. She was lovely to talk to and very patient especially when my app froze again ;)

Dan 7 Nov 2026
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Scott was amazing

Scott was amazing. I had tried for the 24months payment plan but wasn’t approved. Scott called me back and he was amazing. I am now enrolled and set up to begin my course

Gamu 7 Nov 2026
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I had a great experience enrolling…

I had a great experience enrolling thanks to Solomon Watson. He was so patient and he made it easy to get through the enrolment, he also broke it down for me so I could have a better understanding. We spoke via phone call and he made me feel welcome which made me want to join even more as it was all good vibes.

Katie M. 7 Nov 2026
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The adviser was helpful & professional & put me at ease.

The lady i spoke with, was called Courtney, she was very pleasant & really helped with my decision on moving forward in starting my Grade 3 in Dog Grooming, she talked me through the payments, & my commitments, there was nothing I didn't understand. She put me at ease, as I find most things overwhelming.

Kathy 7 Nov 2026
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Patience, customer service is top notch

Peter is a good marketer. He followed me up till I signed in

Yetunde O. 6 Nov 2026
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