University level courses

What is a university level course?

University level study is also called higher education. It means any nationally recognised qualification at Level 4 or above. A degree starts at Level 4 and progresses to Level 6 in the third year.

A Levels, BTEC Level 3 courses, T Levels and Advanced Apprenticeships are all Level 3 qualifications. So if you have Level 3 qualifications, you could explore higher-level study at 18 or 19 – or later.

Level 4+is higher education level
3 or 4 yearsfor a full-time honours degree
Universities and collegesand some training providers offer courses
Full-time or part-timeor by distance learning

Types of university level course

Bachelor’s degree with Honours

For example BA, BSc or LLB

Usually takes three or four years full-time. It is normally four years if you do a placement year in industry or abroad. Some courses offer a faster two-year option.

Degree with a Foundation Year

An extra year at the start

For students who don’t meet the entry requirements. You build the knowledge you need, then go on to the full degree. Offers are often lower. Not all degree courses offer one.

Higher Technical Qualifications

HNCs (Level 4) and HNDs (Level 5)

Job-related courses that employers have helped to develop. An HNC takes one year full-time and an HND takes two. An HND can also lead into the second or third year of a degree.

Foundation Degree

Two years, with workplace learning

Vocational courses that combine study with learning in the workplace. You can normally carry on for a “top up” year to gain a full honours degree. They often ask for lower entry qualifications.

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships

Earn while you learn

Paid work combined with part-time study, leading to a higher education qualification. Find out about apprenticeships at 18.

Art Foundation course

One year, Level 3

Many art and design degrees ask for this first. You explore different areas of art and design and build your portfolio. You apply directly to the college.

What are the benefits?

Employment benefits

Higher employment rates, with more graduates in high-skilled jobs.
Many professional jobs require a university degree – architecture, dentistry, physiotherapy and lots more.
Many professions only employ graduates, and lots of these opportunities are open to graduates with any degree subject.
You may get the chance to do work experience or a placement as part of your course, in this country or abroad, which will add to your CV.

Personal benefits

Meet new people from a range of different backgrounds
Build new experiences and interests through university societies
Learn to live and study independently
Build professional connections

How do I pay for it?

Most people borrow the money for tuition fees, and to help with living costs, through a loan from Student Finance England. You do not pay this back until you have finished or left your course and you earn over a certain amount.

Tuition fees for a full-time course in England are up to £9,790 a year (2026 to 2027).
Many universities and colleges offer scholarships, grants and bursaries. Look on their websites.
If you get extra support at school or college, you could be entitled to Disabled Students’ Allowance to cover study-related costs.
There are other ways to get a degree with financial support: an employer-sponsored degree, a Higher or Degree Apprenticeship, or part-time study alongside work with The Open University.

Good to know: you do not have to go at 18. You can start a university level course later, study part-time, or study alongside work.

Tips for choosing a course

I know what course or career I want

This can make choosing easier. Check the qualifications needed for your chosen job, as some ask for a specific degree – like architecture, dentistry or being a vet. Start with the job profiles in Explore Jobs.

I don’t have a clear idea yet

That is OK! Many employers want people with a degree level qualification and are less concerned about the subject. Just check your subject choice will not close down routes into job sectors you might be interested in.

Ask yourself these questions

What do you enjoy studying at school or college?
Would you like a familiar subject or a completely new one?
What do you like to do in your spare time? Is there a course that matches your interests?

Try Start with a Subject or Start with a Value for ideas.

Things to think about

Know your predicted grades and the UCAS points they give you. Most courses have specific entry requirements, and they vary a lot. Are your choices realistic?
Compare courses. Look at the modules and course content, the entry requirements, how much is assessed by coursework or exam, and how satisfied previous students were.
Think about where, as well as what. Near home or further away? A campus on the edge of town, or the heart of a city?
Go to open days if you can – you could be spending three years there. Many universities also have virtual tours and taster days.
Think about cost, including where you will live.
Not sure between university and an apprenticeship? Apply to university through UCAS and look for an apprenticeship at the same time. You can decline any offers later.
Don’t have the qualifications yet? Ask your local college about a Foundation Year or an Access to Higher Education Diploma.

Not sure? Talk to a careers adviser, or get advice from people who know you well, like parents, carers and teachers.

Find out more or apply

How to apply: You apply online through UCAS for full-time courses, and you can choose up to five. For courses starting in 2027, apply by 13 January 2027 for most courses. For Oxford, Cambridge and most medicine, dentistry and veterinary courses the date is 15 October 2026. Your school or college should help you with your application. For part-time courses you apply directly to the university or college.

What you will learn on this page: