Frequently asked questions

UK universities and colleges welcome applicants of all ages and backgrounds – school leavers, people returning to education and those looking to change career. Each institution sets its own entry requirements for each course. Whether you can apply, and whether you are eligible for funding, depends on your qualifications, experience and personal circumstances. Book a free consultation and we will help you understand your options.

Yes. Your first consultation is free and there is no obligation to continue. If any further service involves a cost, we will explain it clearly before you agree to anything.

Not necessarily. Many institutions accept alternative qualifications such as BTECs, Access to Higher Education Diplomas, HNC/HNDs or equivalent qualifications from other countries. Some courses include a foundation year for applicants who do not yet meet the standard requirements, and mature applicants may be considered on the basis of relevant work or life experience. Requirements differ by course and institution, so we will check what applies to you.

Yes, many courses are available part-time, in the evenings, at weekends or in a blended format that combines online and on-campus learning. Availability depends on the course and institution. We can help you find options that fit around your work and family commitments.

Student Finance is government-backed financial support for higher education. In England it is managed by Student Finance England and may include a Tuition Fee Loan (paid directly to your university or college) and a Maintenance Loan towards living costs. Loans are usually repaid through the tax system once you earn above a set threshold. Eligibility depends on factors such as your residency status, previous study and the type of course, and is decided by Student Finance England (or the relevant body in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland) – not by ASL. We can give you general information and point you to the official guidance on GOV.UK.

It depends on the institution, the course and your background. Some institutions accept previous qualifications taught in English or a GCSE in English, while others ask for a test such as IELTS or another accepted test, or offer their own assessment. Required scores also vary. We will help you check the requirements for the courses you are interested in.

It varies. Preparing your documents and personal statement often takes a few weeks, and institutions take different amounts of time to make decisions. Full-time undergraduate courses applied for through UCAS follow an annual timetable with fixed deadlines, while many college and part-time courses accept applications throughout the year. We recommend starting at least several months before your intended start date.

No – and you should be careful of anyone who promises this. Admission decisions are made only by universities and colleges. What we can do is help you choose suitable courses, prepare a strong application and get ready for interviews, so you give yourself the best possible chance.

No. Your personal statement must be your own work – institutions expect this, and some use tools to detect copied or generated text. We help you plan, structure and improve it, and give detailed feedback on your drafts.

Yes. In UK higher education, a ‘mature student’ usually means someone aged 21 or over at the start of an undergraduate course. Many institutions value the experience mature students bring and may consider work or life experience alongside formal qualifications. Access courses and foundation years are also popular routes back into education.

A Foundation year prepares you for degree-level study if you do not yet meet the entry requirements. An HND (Higher National Diploma) is a practical, career-focused qualification, usually two years full-time. An Undergraduate (Bachelor's) degree usually takes three years full-time in England. A Top-up course lets you turn an HND or similar qualification into a full Bachelor's degree, often in one year. Postgraduate courses, such as a Master's, are for people who already have a degree or equivalent experience.

Most full-time undergraduate courses at UK universities are applied for through UCAS. Many other courses – including many part-time, college and postgraduate courses – are applied for directly with the institution. We will tell you which route applies to each course on your shortlist.

Typically: photo ID, proof of address or status, qualification certificates (with translations if needed), a CV, a personal statement and references. Some courses also ask for English language evidence or a portfolio. See our How to Apply page for a printable checklist – we will also give you a personalised one.

No. ASL Consultancy & Education does not provide visa or immigration advice. If you have questions about your immigration status or a visa, please speak to a regulated immigration adviser or check the official information on GOV.UK.