University level course
Choosing higher education at 18/19
The number of 18 year olds accepted into university or college has hit a record high. UCAS figures published for Level 3 results day in August 2025 show 255,130 UK 18-year-olds have been accepted, compared to 243,650 in 2024 (+4.7%)
There are lots of different types of higher-education level courses available. Higher education means any sort of nationally recognised qualification which is at Level 4 or above (A Levels, BTEC Level 3, Tech Levels and Advanced Apprenticeships are all Level 3 qualifications). A degree starts at Level 4 and progresses to Level 6 in the third year.
Although in the past higher-education courses were just delivered at universities, they are now offered at universities, colleges and also some training providers too.
So, if you have Level 3 qualifications you could explore higher-level study at 18/19.
Getting a degree without debt!
Students now have to apply for a government loan to pay for tuition fees (£9,500+ a year for some courses).
Read more about loans and financial support for Higher Education here.
If the idea of taking out a loan for your university course is putting you off, then there are other ways to get a degree with financial support; through an employer-sponsored degree; a Higher Apprenticeship or Degree Apprenticeship; or with reduced fees through The Open University - where you can study part-time alongside work.
Information to help you explore higher education:
- Decide which course to do
- Find and compare courses/providers
- Apply for a HE-level course
- Higher education in a local college
- Higher and degree apprenticeships