Many adults think university closed its doors when they left school without A-Levels. It did not. UCAS describes a mature student as someone going to university after a period out of full-time education — typically over 21 at the start of an undergraduate course — and says some mature students start their first degree based on work or life experience, or after an Access to HE diploma.
This guide explains the main routes in plain English. It is general information: each university sets its own entry rules, and the final decision is always theirs.
The main routes without A-Levels
Universities usually offer more than one way in. The most common are:
- Non-standard (mature) entry. The university looks at your work experience, a personal statement, a reference and often a short interview or task instead of formal grades. Some ask for a period of relevant work experience; the amount differs by university and course.
- Access to HE Diploma. A one-year course for adults, designed to prepare you for a degree. It takes time and effort, but it is a recognised route.
- Foundation year. An extra first year that leads into a bachelor's degree at the same university. GOV.UK lists a foundation year as eligible for funding when it forms part of a bachelor's degree.
- Level 4 or 5 qualification first. A Certificate or Diploma of Higher Education or an HNC/HND can lead on to a full degree. Several of these are on the GOV.UK list of courses that can be funded.
What universities usually ask for
Requirements vary, so always check the course page or ask the admissions team. Typically you may be asked for:
- a personal statement explaining why you want this subject and how your experience prepares you;
- evidence of work experience — for example a CV or an employer reference;
- in many cases GCSE English and maths (or an accepted equivalent) — if you do not have them, ask the university what they accept;
- sometimes an interview or a short written task;
- for some subjects (for example nursing or teaching) additional checks and requirements.
Your English level matters too. If English is not your first language, universities may ask for proof of English. The requirement is set by each university.
Do you need A-Levels to get Student Finance?
No. Student Finance England looks at your residency status, where you live, the course and your study history — not whether you have A-Levels. If you qualify as a home student, the funding is the same whichever way you entered university.
For courses starting in 2026/27 the Tuition Fee Loan for full-time students is £9,790, paid straight to the university, and the Maintenance Loan for living costs in London (living away from home) is up to £14,135 a year, depending on household income. You repay only once you earn above the threshold (£25,000 a year for new students), as a percentage of what you earn above it. Check current figures on gov.uk.
One practical point: weekend-only courses are usually treated as distance learning, which can mean no Maintenance Loan. Ask the university how a course is classed before you choose it.
How to apply, step by step
- Check your status — Student Finance depends on your residency category and how long you have lived in the UK. Use our free eligibility check.
- Choose a direction — pick the career you want first, then the course that leads there.
- Ask about entry for adults — tell the university you have no A-Levels and ask which non-standard route they use.
- Apply — full-time courses usually go through UCAS (the deadline for most 2027 courses is 13 January 2027); part-time and flexible courses often apply directly to the university.
- Apply for Student Finance — separately, on GOV.UK.
Is it too late for me?
There is no upper age limit for the Tuition Fee Loan on courses that start before 2027. Under the new Lifelong Learning Entitlement, for courses from 1 January 2027, you must be under 60 on the first day of the course. UCAS notes that around a third of undergraduates are mature students. Many study in the evening, at weekends or part-time around work.