How to apply
Just like applying to university, entry
requirements for courses here at Bedford
College will include certain subjects and/or grades you need to have already gained,
and some will also state a minimum ‘points
total’ that is based on the UCAS tariff. The
UCAS tariff converts different qualifications
and grades into equivalent point values.
Since October 2018, the new UCAS points will apply. The
tariff has changed for a number of reasons,
including ensuring that more vocational and
non-traditional qualifications can attract
UCAS points. For more information visit
www.ucas.com/files/new-tariff-tables
1. Research your course
We offer a wide-range of courses such as Foundation Degrees & Degrees, Higher National Certificates & Diplomas, Teaching qualifications, Higher Apprenticeships and Access to Higher Education courses. Visit these pages and select a course to see in-depth course information such as Entry Requirements.
2. Attend an Open Day
Experience more and discover for yourself what higher education at Bedford College or Shuttleworth College is really like by coming along to our Open Days. You will be able to chat to students, meet course tutors and have a tour of our campus and facilities.
3. Check your application route
3.1 UCAS applications
You’ll need to apply through the Universities & Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) online application process at www.ucas.com.
UCAS
applications require you to provide a unique code
to identify which course you are applying for and
which education institution it’s being offered at – don’t worry; the codes you need to use in your application are shown on the individual course pages accessed via the course search.
When applying for a course you must meet the
entry requirements – these may include certain
subjects and/or grades you need to have already
gained, as well as a minimum ‘points total’ that
is based on the UCAS tariff. The UCAS tariff
converts different qualifications and grades into
equivalent point values (e.g. a Distinction* grade
for a BTEC Subsidiary Diploma is worth 56 points,
a Distinction grade is worth 48 points, a Merit
grade is worth 32 points and so on) – to find out
what your existing qualifications are worth, just
use the tariff table online at www.ucas.com.
Deadlines
You should aim to submit your application to UCAS by 15 January 2019. We can take applications received through the UCAS main scheme up to 30 June 2019 if there are still vacancies on your course – but we advise you to apply earlier.
3.2 Direct applications
To apply online just find your course through our course search and click the ‘Apply Online’ button next to the course you are interested in.
The BA and BSc (Hons) degree top-up courses require you to apply directly to either The University of Northampton or University of Bedfordshire. Please go to the relevant Top-up course page and see the ‘How to apply’ section for more information.
4. Attend an interview
For some of our courses, after you apply you’ll need to attend an interview with one of our tutors who’ll be able to ensure that the course you’ve chosen is right for you, as well as answer any questions you may have.
5. Confirmation
You’ll then be notified of the outcome of your
application either by the College (for direct
applications) or through UCAS (for UCAS
applications). The notification will explain to you
what you need to do next if you have been offered
a place on your course.
6. Come to our HE Welcome Day
Our HE Welcome Day gives you the chance to meet your tutors, make friends with students who’ve also applied for your course and find out a lot more about what you’ll be studying in the coming year so, by the time your course begins, you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
As part of our initial advice and guidance, interview and enrolment procedures, we will take into account
the experience and knowledge you have gained from outside the formal education and training system.
Consequently, we are open to accepting a wide range of evidence sources for RPL provided that the
SCAR principle applies.
Any evidence provided should be:
- Sufficient – to demonstrate competence
- Current – how recent the experience is can be a factor in its relevance
- Authentic – some evidence may require endorsement from third parties
- Relevant – the requirements of a particular qualification will act as a determining
factor in identifying a suitable evidence base.