Can you go to university without A-levels? Your options explained

Yes, you can go to university even if you don't have A-levels. 

A-levels might be one of the most well-known routes into higher education, but it’s not the only option. The best route for you will depend on things like your age, subject, existing qualifications and the requirements of your university.

Generally, universities expect you to have your English and Maths GCSEs (or an equivalent qualification, like Functional Skills) before you start your degree. But the good news is that university-level courses have never been more accessible. 

UCAS itself has said that universities actively accept a wide range of alternative qualifications and will often take relevant work or even life experience into consideration. 

So, if you’re considering a degree and your current qualifications aren't listed in the entry requirements, don't count yourself out. Always check the individual course pages carefully and contact the university’s admissions team for advice before you apply. 

What are your options if you don’t have A-levels?

When you don’t have the standard A-level requirements, there are plenty of other options, including:

1. Retake or study A-levels online

Not getting the grades you expected can be very disappointing. But students should remember this isn’t where their journey into education ends. 

In fact, it’s entirely possible for you to retake A-levels to improve your grades or obtain a subject-specific qualification in areas such as maths, biology, chemistry, psychology, or English. That’s why we offer self-study A-Level courses with flexible learning and support from qualified tutors. 

2. Access to Higher Education Diploma

Are you an adult learner returning to education? An Access to Higher Education Diploma is for students who want to progress to university but don’t have the usual qualifications. 

These courses are usually completed over one or two years (students should always check that their university accepts the specific Access pathway, such as Nursing, Science, or Humanities, for their target degree subject before enrolling). 

3. BTECs/T-Levels/vocational qualifications

Vocational Level 3 qualifications (e.g., BTECs, T Levels, CACHE, City & Guilds, and Cambridge Technicals) can also support progression to higher education. 

Often linked to career-focused subjects, these qualifications can be a good fit if you already know what you want to study. 

4. Foundation year/degree with foundation year

Often suggested for students who have taken non-traditional routes, a ‘Year 0’ or foundation year is an extra year added to the start of a degree: this option is best for those who missed the entry requirements or are completely changing subjects.

5. Work experience/mature student entry

Our final route can be useful for adults with relevant experience in employment or industry. 

When an applicant lacks traditional academic qualifications, universities might consider a mature applicant's professional background as evidence of their ability to study at the degree level.

Do you still need GCSEs to go to university?

Yes, you do. 

Almost all universities require at least a grade 4 (or C) in GCSE English and maths, regardless of your other qualifications. Depending on your chosen degree (e.g., teaching or healthcare), you may also need a GCSE in science or higher grades in your core subjects. 

If you’re missing these essential foundation qualifications, you don't need to return to a physical classroom: why not study online? At Distance Learning Centre, we offer fully accredited GCSE, IGCSE, and A-level courses designed for flexible self-study. 

Study with Distance Learning Centre: one of the leading and longest established suppliers of self-study distance learning courses in the UK!

Don’t let anything stand between you and your university goals. 

Distance Learning Centre can help you build a solid foundation with our GCSE and IGCSE courses, including Maths, English Language/Literature, Physics, Psychology, Sociology, French, Spanish, and more! 

Or, if you’ve already acquired your GCSE qualifications and are looking for something more specific, why not retake specific A-levels? You can find everything from Biology and Business to Economics and English Language.