Frequently Asked Questions

An Access to HE Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to prepare adults without the necessary entry qualifications (like A Levels) for university-level study, or for students who are looking to make a significant career change. It includes 60 credits: 45 graded at Level 3 and 15 ungraded at Level 2 or 3. Access to HE Diplomas are tailored to specific subjects such as nursing, law, or science and are regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA).

Laser Learning Awards (LASER) is an Access Validating Agency (AVA) licensed by QAA. We validate and quality assure Access to HE Diplomas, support centres in delivering them, and ensure compliance with QAA standards.

The QAA is the UK’s independent expert body responsible for safeguarding academic standards and enhancing the quality of higher education. It regulates Access to HE Diplomas, licenses AVAs like LASER, and sets the structural and grading standards for these qualifications.

We have been an AVA since AVAs were invented! Historically, LASER as an organisation was involved in Access to HE from the beginning, working with Local Access Consortia, and was one of the founding AVAs, working with QAA since it first formally began recognising Access to HE provision in 1997. Our licence has been continually renewed and confirmed through regular QAA monitoring since then.

We offer strong support, experienced and dedicated Access to HE teams, and a flexible approach to course design and delivery.

Centres benefit from LASER’s:

• Long-standing expertise and history in Access to HE provision

• Wide range of validated subject titles

• Dedicated support team and training resources

• Commitment to quality and student success

• Free online study skills courses for learners

• Strong progression links with universities.

Centres applying for approval must demonstrate sufficient resources, appropriately qualified staff, and a clear understanding of regulatory requirements. They must also meet QAA and LASER standards for delivery, assessment, quality assurance, and successfully complete the centre approval and Diploma validation process.

Quality assurance includes:

• QAA-regulated grading and Diploma specifications

• Internal and external verification and moderation processes

• Annual monitoring by QAA

• Standardisation events and awards boards

• Five-yearly centre and Diploma validation

• Annual centre reviews.

Yes, Access to HE Diplomas are widely recognised by UK universities as equivalent to A Levels. They are part of the UCAS Tariff and accepted for entry into a broad range of undergraduate courses.

• Inclusivity: Supporting adults from diverse backgrounds

• Empowerment: Helping learners transform their lives through education

• Quality: Delivering high-standard qualifications with robust support

• Collaboration: Working closely with centres, students, and universities to ensure success.