Further and Higher Education
Further education refers to education at school or college for young people aged 16 and over.
Going to College
Your local further education college will offer a wide range of courses for students aged 16-19.
Some will be for students hoping to improve their examination grades or to go to university.
Others will be for those who want to train for a career. Sometimes these courses are full-time.
Some are part-time and allow students to work as well.
Entry Requirements
Although your child may be able to find a course they wish to follow, they will have to meet
certain entry requirements before they can start. Your child will have to show that they:
•Have the language skills
•Have the right qualifications, for example good enough results in exams
•Can pay the fees and support themselves whilst
studying
Learning English
Many colleges run courses for people wishing to improve
their English. Some may be in basic English, whilst others are
more advanced or linked to particular types of job.
You may also find that English classes are offered at the
local Adult Education Centre. These are likely to take
place during the evening so that you or your family can
attend even if you have a full time job.
A support worker or advisor, Connexions advisor or the local
library can put you in touch with one of these centres.
Courses may be free or at low cost, if you are on benefits or have a low
income.
Higher Education
Higher education is another name for universities and colleges providing degrees and special
professional qualifications.
Applications for university are normally made before the end of March for courses starting the
following September. However, students in the UK do not normally apply directly to the
university of their choice. Almost all applications are made through an organisation called UCAS.
Your child's tutor at school or college can give details of this and help with the application.
Costs
Most students today who attend English or Welsh universities are required to pay for their living
expenses and to make a contribution towards the cost of their tuition fees. Students in Scotland
have to pay for their living expenses only.
There are two rates for tuition fees in British universities - home and overseas student rates.
The overseas rate is much higher.
Most students in the UK take out a loan to help with living costs through the government-backed
Student Loans Scheme. More information is available from www.studentfinancedirect.co.uk or by
calling 08456 077577.
Students pay back the loan after they have left university when their earnings reach a certain
level, with a set amount each month automatically deducted from their salary.
