Access to HE courses are designed for people who would like to study at university but who left school without the usual qualifications, such as A levels.

Getting advice

For impartial advice on funding and financial help, call the learndirect advice line on
0800 100 900
from 8am to 10pm
seven days a week.

Or find information on the learndirect website

How have former Access to HE students coped with finance?

Many students take a part-time job or apply for help with funding elsewhere if they need to study full-time.

Read the Access to HE case studies>

Getting financial help to study

You’ll need to think carefully about your finances before you take an Access to HE course. Our advice is to contact the Access to HE course provider well in advance to discuss your situation.

There are two areas of finance that you’ll need to consider: course fees and living costs. Many Access to HE students don’t have to pay course fees and, depending on your circumstances, you may be able to get financial help towards the costs of your learning, and related costs like travel and childcare.