Does anyone know anything about alternatives to A Levels and where you could study them if you are not a teen?

Answer 1

There are also Access Courses at college for over 21s. These can be accepted as an alternative to A levels for mature students and incorporate classes in learning skills, essay writing and presentations. You must check that a university is willing to accept the Access Course (it depends on which college you do it at as some colleges have good reputations which certain universities).

From my own experience, a science-based Access Course enabled students to go into Radiology, Medicine, Dentistry, Nutrition, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Medical Engineering and Forensic Science - just to name a few.

These sort of courses fill up quick so check out lots of colleges and always put your name onto a waiting list if they are full. Not everyone takes up their offered place.

Answer 2

There are no A Levels in Scotland, but there are equivalent qualifications called "Highers".
There is no reason why an appropriate course shouldn't be taken at a school by a non-teen. Alternatively, I'm sure than colleges will offer some such courses.

Answer 3

you can go to a further education college, or community adult education, which can be held in leisure centres, community centres etc.
phone your local education authority through your council.
they can send you a list of venues. ask for Level 3 courses, which are equivalent to A levels, if you do not wish to study actual A levels. though some venues offer both. if level 3 seems ambitious at the moment, go for level 2 and work your way up!
there are courses in almost every subject, vocational and academic etc.
mature students are very welcome, and you can get financial help too.
good luck

Answer 4

The BTEC National Diploma is accepted by University as the same standard. You can do them in a range of subjects. You normally need to get 3 Merits at least to get into University. I did mine at 20 in a Further Edcuation College. There were people in my class from 18 - 50 !!!. Sometimes you can do it in the evening.

Answer 5

Find out where your nearest Further Education College is. They will have a prospectus giving you details of all the courses which are "Level 3" - these are the ones you should be looking for as they include A levels and A level equivalent. All ages are welcome in FE Colleges.