Course information

Access to HE Diplomas overview

The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed for adults who are looking to progress to university. Each Access Diploma is tailored to specific subjects or progression routes, ensuring that students gain the skills and knowledge required for higher education. Our Access Diplomas are structured to accommodate a range of academic and career pathways, helping students to achieve their educational goals and advance their careers.

Our Diplomas

CAVA validates a range of Access to HE Diplomas, each aligned with subjects relevant to progression into various fields in higher education. Courses are delivered through approved providers who meet CAVA’s quality standards. Please consult with your chosen provider for details about specific diplomas offered, which may include:

For the full list please visit our Access to HE Diplomas page.


Diploma specification

Each Access to HE Diploma is awarded based on the successful completion of units, which are organised to cover academic skills and subject-specific knowledge. A full diploma requires:

Diploma specifications ensure that learning outcomes and assessment criteria are met consistently across providers. This framework guarantees that each diploma reflects the knowledge and skills necessary for further study in higher education​​.


Awards Board

The Awards Board is an essential part of the Diploma process, responsible for confirming and certifying each student’s achievements. During the Awards Board meeting, the recommendation for the award of credits and the final grades for each student are reviewed and agreed upon. The board includes representatives from CAVA, the course providers, and external moderators, ensuring that all awards meet CAVA’s quality standards. Once the Awards Board has confirmed student achievements, CAVA issues diplomas, completing the certification process​​​.


Assessment

Our Access to HE Diplomas use a range of assessment methods designed to prepare students for the academic rigour of higher education (Level 4 and beyond). Assessments are structured to develop students' skills, knowledge, and behaviours, aligned with both subject requirements and transferable skills needed in higher education.

Diverse assessment methods

Students will complete various types of assessments, such as essays, presentations, practical assignments, and exams. These assessments are designed to build academic and subject-specific skills and ensure readiness for Level 4 study.

Learning outcomes and assessment criteria

To successfully achieve an Access Diploma, students must meet all specified learning outcomes (LO) and assessment criteria (AC) for each registered unit. Full completion of all units, including graded and ungraded components, is required for the award of credits​​.

Grading and midpoint application

Grades for graded units are awarded at the unit level, based on overall performance across assignments within each unit. When a unit includes multiple assessments, grades reflect an overall judgment of student performance, typically centeed on the midpoint of the grading criteria to maintain fairness and consistency. Grades are awarded at Pass, Merit, or Distinction levels depending on the standard achieved​​.

Developing skills, knowledge and behaviours

Through continuous assessments, students are supported in building core competencies, subject-specific knowledge, and behaviours that support academic success, such as research skills, critical thinking, and independent learning.

Multiple assessments for higher-credit units

Larger units (typically 6 or 9 credits) may require more than one assessment to comprehensively cover the learning outcomes. Each assessment will contribute to the final unit grade, ensuring a thorough evaluation of the student’s abilities.

Submission and resubmission rules

First submission: Each assessment must be submitted by the deadline set by the provider. Timely submission allows students to demonstrate their progress and receive formative feedback.

Resubmission: If a student does not meet the assessment criteria on the first attempt, they may be allowed a resubmission. This provides an opportunity to address feedback and improve their work.

Referral: For students who still do not meet the criteria after resubmission, a referral option is available, but this is restricted to a maximum of 15 credits across the entire Diploma. Referrals are intended to support students in demonstrating the required standards without compromising academic integrity​​.