Levels explained
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Please note, the following is just a guide to choosing the right level of course for you. Individual courses may have more specific entry requirements such as a particular subject at a certain level. See also Types of Course Explained for further information.
Introductory Courses (Entry Level)
These courses are for you If you have achieved:
- GCSEs at grade F/G or no GCSEs or
- ESOL qualifications
Level 1 Courses
These courses are for you If you have achieved:
- 4 or more GCSEs at grade E including English & Maths or
- Key Skills to level E3 or
- An introductory level course or
- An E3 level ESOL qualification or
- Evidence of working to E3 level
Level 2 Courses
These courses are for you If you have achieved:
- 4 or more GCSEs at grade D including English and Maths or
- Key Skills Numeracy and Communications at level 1 (or E3) and 2 other relevant or
- A Level 1 Vocational Qualification at Merit or Distinction and Key Skills level 1 (or equivalent) or
- Work Experience and a literacy qualification at level 1 or
- For Beauty Therapy, 3 GCSEs at Grade C or above
Advanced Certificate (Level 2.5)
These courses are for you If you have achieved:
- 4 or more GCSEs at grade C or
- A level 2 Course at Pass Level or
- or GCSE resits or
Level 3 Courses
eg 3 AS/A Levels or a BTEC National Diploma
These courses are for you If you have achieved:
- 5 or more GCSEs at grade A*– C including English Language at C and Maths at grade D or above or
- A level 2 vocational qualification at Merit or Distinction and equivalent of key skills level 1 or 2 or
- An Advanced Certificate (level 2.5) or
- NVQ employed status
- NB: Requirements may vary for Access Courses, some of which require relevant work experience and literacy at level 2 and numeracy at level 1 or 2
Level 4 and above
eg higher level courses at University level
These courses are for you If you have achieved:
- a level 3 course or
- or an Advanced Programme or
- or A Levels (AS/A2) or
- or Applied A Levels or
- or a BTEC National or an NVQ 3