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Christmas Closure Information

Our campuses close on Friday 20th December and re-open on Thursday 2nd January 2025 for the Christmas Break.

Students will return to timetabled lessons on Monday 6th January 2025.

For information on term dates and enquiries please visit our information page using the button below.

Start of term information

The application window for Online Access to HE courses starting in September/October 2025 is open from 12pm on Tuesday 1st October 2024.

Applications for this course are made via our online application form and you will be able to access it from this course page when applications are open.

Once you are ready to apply then please click the ‘Apply Online‘ buttons located in the menu section below.

Upon successful submission of an application you will receive an acknowledgement email from our Admissions team. If you do not receive this you should contact the team to check that your application has been received.

We will then process your application and applicants will receive further correspondence from the College about the next stages of the admissions process.

In the mean time, if you have any further questions about the application process, want to check the progress of your application or if you are unsure about anything please contact us using the enquiry line or enquiry form below.

Application and Enquiry FAQ

Can I study GCSE English and/or Maths alongside an Access to HE Diploma?

No, it is not possible to study GCSE qualifications alongside an Access to HE Diploma, and these will need to be achieved prior to starting.

Colchester Institute offers GCSE English and Maths for adult learners and you can study both of these in the same academic year.

Is Functional Skills (maths and English) Level 2 equivalent to a GCSE?

Functional Skills at Level 2 is equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 (C on old grading system). Functional Skills is a qualification which is widely accepted as a GCSE equivalent.  Most universities will accept Functional Skills, but please check with your chosen university before you submit your application in order to avoid disappointment.

When can I apply for an Access to HE Diploma?

Applications open on the 1st of October 2024.

We accept online applications throughout the rest of the academic year, however we encourage you to apply as early as possible.

Do I have to pay a fee?

Depending on your age and prior attainment you may be expected to pay full fees, however you will be able to apply for a loan under the Government’s Advanced Learning Loans Scheme to cover the cost of these fees. Loan repayments start when you earn over £27,295 per year.

If you get a loan to cover tuition fees for the Access to HE course and then complete a higher education (degree) course, you won’t have to repay the remaining loan for the Access course.

What if I am not eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan?

If you do have to pay a fee and are not eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan, then your fees can be payed by instalments.

You will need to pay at least 40% of the total fee when you enrol (or £500, whichever is the lower).  A monthly payment plan will then be setup for you to pay the remainder.  All fees need to be paid in full within six months of the start of the course.  Please contact our Registry department on 01206 712555 for further details.

What financial support is available to me?

For those applying for an Advanced Learner Loan, a bursary may be available. For students with an identified low household income, there may be financial support available to assist with the cost of returning to study. Funds are targeted at course related costs such as travel, childcare, books and equipment.

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