If I start an access course now, is it possible to get into uni for this September
don’t have any a levels as I dropped out of sixth form at 17 as I was struggling mentally, I intended to study for them at home and do a levels as a private candidate. That didn’t end up happening tho. I’m hoping to study maths at uni, I ideally want to try get into a russel group uni, but even if I apply for a course with a foundation year, I’ll still need a level 3 qualification. So Yh, my question is basically if I start an access course now, is it possible to start uni (at a russel group hopefully) this september
Reply 1
Original post
by Crystal.Ddon’t have any a levels as I dropped out of sixth form at 17 as I was struggling mentally, I intended to study for them at home and do a levels as a private candidate. That didn’t end up happening tho. I’m hoping to study maths at uni, I ideally want to try get into a russel group uni, but even if I apply for a course with a foundation year, I’ll still need a level 3 qualification. So Yh, my question is basically if I start an access course now, is it possible to start uni (at a russel group hopefully) this september
Hello,
Have you looked at the access courses? They’re usually a condensed one academic year long, meaning you’ll be finishing after September intakes.
-Sarah (Kingston Rep)
Reply 2
4
Original post
by Kingston SarahHello,
Have you looked at the access courses? They’re usually a condensed one academic year long, meaning you’ll be finishing after September intakes.
-Sarah (Kingston Rep)
Have you looked at the access courses? They’re usually a condensed one academic year long, meaning you’ll be finishing after September intakes.
-Sarah (Kingston Rep)
Would I not be able to complete it earlier tho, as I really want to be in uni this September
Reply 3
Original post
by Crystal.Ddon’t have any a levels as I dropped out of sixth form at 17 as I was struggling mentally, I intended to study for them at home and do a levels as a private candidate. That didn’t end up happening tho. I’m hoping to study maths at uni, I ideally want to try get into a russel group uni, but even if I apply for a course with a foundation year, I’ll still need a level 3 qualification. So Yh, my question is basically if I start an access course now, is it possible to start uni (at a russel group hopefully) this september
Thank you for being open about your situation. Leaving sixth form for mental health reasons is far more common than people realise, and it does not prevent you from progressing to university.
It is important to be clear and realistic about timelines. An Access to Higher Education Diploma is a full Level 3 qualification that normally takes one academic year to complete (and have results), however do reach out to your local providers to see if they offer any accelerated Access courses. Because of this, if you were to start an Access course now, it would not be possible to begin university this coming September, including at Russell Group institutions. Universities need your final Access results before enrolment, and Access courses are designed to prepare students over a full year rather than fast-track entry within a few months.
In terms of studying Mathematics, most universities particularly Russell Group institutions have very specific requirements. Even for foundation years, they usually expect strong Level 3 study in mathematics, either through A level Maths or an Access Diploma with a substantial and clearly defined maths pathway. Some Russell Group universities do accept Access qualifications for maths related degrees, but acceptance varies significantly by institution, and the requirements are often stringent.
At London South Bank University, we regularly support students who have taken non-traditional routes into higher education, including Access Diplomas and foundation pathways. While LSBU is not a Russell Group university, we place strong emphasis on academic progression, student support, and widening participation. Many students who start via Access or foundation routes go on to achieve excellent outcomes.
If your long term goal is a Russell Group university, the most sensible and achievable route would be to start an Access to HE course now, ideally one with a strong mathematics focus, complete it successfully, and then apply for university entry the following academic year. This also gives you time to rebuild academic confidence and stability after a difficult period, which is crucial for a subject as demanding as mathematics.
Finally, admissions teams do take context into account. When you apply through UCAS, you would have the opportunity to explain your circumstances, including the impact of your mental health on your education. Speaking directly with admissions advisors either at LSBU or at the universities you are aiming for can help you understand exact requirements and plan a realistic pathway.
Although it may feel frustrating not to start university immediately, taking the time to complete the right Level 3 qualification now is the strongest step you can take towards achieving your goal.
You are always welcome to explore LSBU and get a real feel for what student life is like here. We have a Southwark open day: Saturday 7th February 2026 where you can hear more about our courses and support. If you would prefer to see the campus in person you can book a tour https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/study/study-at-lsbu/open-days on a day that suits you and get a sense of the spaces you would be studying in. You can also chat to our current students https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/student-life/chat to hear honest experiences and get answers to any course questions you might have.
LSBU Admissions Ambassador
Reply 4
Original post
by Crystal.DWould I not be able to complete it earlier tho, as I really want to be in uni this September
Hello,
I believe it is difficult because you’ll still be completing your access course by September. If you start your access course now, you can apply to the January intake of 2027.
-Sarah (Kingston Rep)
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