Access Course or Foundation Year

Having finished GCSEs 2 years ago and 2 gap years, is it worth seeking an A Level equivalent qualification from an Access Course at the local College, with an aim for the university? Or, rather look for universities' Foundation Year courses?

Would Oxbridge or top tier Russell group university prefer A Level results than an Access Course qualification? Grateful for advice.

Reply 1

PS Reviewer

What do you want to study at university?

If you’re aiming for Oxbridge then A levels over 2 years would give you the best chance

Reply 2

Berriec

Law. Aiming at Oxbridge or too tier Russell group.

Reply 3

PS Reviewer

Original post by Berriec

Law. Aiming at Oxbridge or too tier Russell group.

Then you'll maximise your chances by taking A levels

If you were in your late 20s or 30s+ then an access diploma might be a better option but you haven't been out of education for very long.
Depending on when your birthday falls in the year if you're still 18 or under on 1 Sept 2024 then you wouldn't even have to pay fees to study A levels at a local FE college.

Reply 4

drriversong

I got into Cambridge with an access course so it is possible 🙂 I've personally never come across a successful access course applicant to Oxford though

Reply 5

Berriec

I read your amazing story in the other post. Look forward seeing you sharing your amazing uni life in Cambridge!

Reply 6

Berriec

Original post by drriversong

I got into Cambridge with an access course so it is possible 🙂 I've personally never come across a successful access course applicant to Oxford though

Do you think universities give a different eye to Access Course students and non-A level academic results?

Reply 7

bimbibap

Original post by Berriec

Do you think universities give a different eye to Access Course students and non-A level academic results?

I don’t think so, I really think it comes down to the uni/ course you’re attending. If they accept access courses in their entry requirements, you should have no problem.