Orthoptics

Q: What is an Access to HE Diploma?
A: An Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to prepare adults for degree-level study. AOLL’s diplomas contain 60 Level 3 credits: 45 graded credits and 15 ungraded credits. The graded credits can be awarded at Pass, Merit or Distinction and carry UCAS Tariff points. Read more...

Q: What are the entry requirements for an Access to HE Diploma with AOLL?
A: AOLL does not require applicants to hold formal qualifications before starting the diploma. However, you will need motivation, the ability to ask for help when needed, and a good standard of written and spoken English. Universities may still require Level 2 qualifications such as GCSEs alongside an Access course, so it is important to check entry requirements carefully. Read more...

Q: Do I need GCSE English and Maths to study an Access to HE Diploma?
A: AOLL does not require GCSE English or Maths for enrolment. However, many degree courses require GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or an accepted equivalent in addition to the Access to HE Diploma. Some courses also require GCSE Science. Students should check these requirements before enrolling. AOLL offer Functional Skills and GCSEs.

Q: How long does an online Access to HE Diploma take?
A: AOLL’s Access to HE Diploma is normally purchased with 12 months of study time. Students may complete it sooner, typically between 8-10 months if they meet the assessment requirements and agreed deadlines. Additional study time may be available subject to AOLL’s current terms and charges.

Q: Is an Access to HE Diploma equivalent to A Levels? 
A: An Access to HE Diploma and A Levels are different Level 3 qualifications. The Access diploma is designed primarily for adults preparing to enter higher education and combines subject knowledge with academic study skills. It should not be described as identical to a particular number of A Levels.

Q: How do I choose the correct Access to HE pathway?
A: Students should begin with their intended degree or progression route and check its subject, credit, grade and GCSE requirements. They can then compare those requirements with the units and credits included in each AOLL pathway. Applicants should do this before enrolling rather than assuming that every pathway supports every degree.

Q: What can I study after completing an Access to HE Diploma?
A: The diploma can support applications to a range of undergraduate degrees and other higher education programmes. The suitable progression routes depend on the diploma title, the units and subject credits completed, the grades achieved and any additional entry requirements set by the course provider. Read more...

Q: What will appear on my Access to HE Diploma certificate?
A: The certificate will show the formal Access to Higher Education Diploma title. The accompanying transcript will show the units, credits and grades completed.

Q: Can I do this diploma if I live outside the UK?
A: This QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma is validated for students living in the UK, including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Read more...

Q: Is the Access to HE Diploma recognised by QAA?
A: Yes. The Access to HE Diploma is a QAA-recognised qualification. QAA regulates the Access to HE Diploma through its Recognition Scheme. AOLL’s diplomas are awarded by Skills and Education Group Access, which is a QAA-licensed Access Validating Agency. To find our profile on the QAA website, click here. Read more...

Q: What does QAA stand for?
A: QAA stands for the Quality Assurance Agency. It is the organisation that safeguards quality and standards in UK colleges and universities so that students have the best possible learning experience. You can find more information here. Read more...

Q: Who is the awarding organisation for this course?
A: Our awarding organisation is Skills and Education Group Access. Read more...

Q: Do I need work experience before starting an Access to HE Diploma?
A: No. AOLL does not require applicants to have previous employment or voluntary experience in their intended subject. Relevant experience may provide useful context, particularly for professional courses, but later training providers and employers may set their own requirements. Read more...

Q: Can an Access to HE Diploma support a degree-apprenticeship application?
A: The diploma provides Level 3 study that may support an application for a degree apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are employment-based, so applicants must also secure a suitable position and meet the employer’s recruitment and entry requirements.

Q: How do I apply to university while studying an Access to HE Diploma?
A: Most undergraduate applications are made through UCAS. Students should research their intended courses, check the entry requirements and enter the unfinished Access to HE Diploma and units as pending. Students who link their application to AOLL can receive application support and an academic reference. Read more...

Q: Will I get help with my UCAS application?
A: Yes. As part of your course fees, AOLL provides support through one application cycle. This includes checking the three UCAS personal statement questions (introduced for 2026 applications onwards), and providing an academic reference. Where appropriate, Academy Online Learning can also provide information about your progress, completed units and grades achieved to date. Unfinished Access to HE qualifications and units are entered on UCAS as pending. We are a UCAS registered centre. Read more...

Q: Will my tutor give me a reference?
A: If you link your UCAS application to AOLL, we will automatically act as your referee and write the academic reference for you. If you would prefer to use a different referee, you will need to apply independently so that you can enter their details instead. Read more...

Q: Can I get a TOTUM card?
A: Yes. Students can apply directly online via TOTUM. Read more...

Q: When can I start this course?
A: You can start at any time during the year. Our provision allows learners to begin when it suits them, rather than only in September. Read more...

Q: Once I have completed the enrolment form, how do I get started?
A: Once your chosen payment option has been set up and accepted, you will be allocated a personal tutor who will contact you, talk you through the next steps, and help you get started. Read more...

Q: Do I have to pay to enrol?
A: No. There is no cost or commitment when you first enrol. An automated email will be sent to your inbox with further information about how the course works and what to expect as a student. Read more...

Q: Can I speak to somebody in Admissions?
A: Yes. You can call us on 0161 726 5970, email enquiries@academyonlinelearning.com, or visit Contact Us to send us a message. Read more...

Q: I have been out of education for many years. Have I left it too late for university?
A: No. The Access to HE Diploma is specifically designed for adult learners returning to education who do not have qualifications such as A Levels for university entry. There is no upper age limit. Read more...

Q: How do I enrol?
A: The registration form can be accessed at the top of the page or on the course page. You can also complete the contact form or send us a message via Contact Us. Read more...

Q: What tutor support will I receive while studying online?
A: Each student is allocated a personal tutor. Students can contact their tutor through the online messaging system and will normally receive a response within 24 hours, Monday to Friday. Tutors provide academic guidance, assignment feedback and support with progression. Read more...

Q: Do students feel isolated studying through distance learning? 
A: Distance learning may not suit everyone, but there is strong support from tutors and staff throughout the course. Students past and present can also communicate with each other for advice on universities, bursaries, open days, careers, and more via the private Facebook group. Read more...

Q: Is the Access to HE Diploma completely online?
A: Yes. AOLL’s Access to HE Diplomas are studied through an online virtual learning environment (VLE). Students access learning materials, submit assignments and communicate with their tutor online. There are no lessons to attend or exams to sit.

Q: How is the Access to HE Diploma assessed?
A: The diploma is assessed through assignments rather than examinations. Assessment tasks may include essays, reports, presentations and question-based assignments. Students must demonstrate the knowledge and assessment criteria required for each unit.

Q: How do I receive my learning materials and assignments?
A: Once enrolled, you will have access to your VLE dashboard where you can find all learning materials and assignments. Read more...

Q: What is the VLE?
A: The VLE is our virtual learning environment. It is where you access course materials, submit work, communicate with your tutor, and find additional guidance on UCAS, careers, moderation, and study support. Read more...

Q: What do I have to achieve to get an Access Diploma?
A: You must achieve 60 Level 3 credits in total. Of these, 45 credits are graded at Pass, Merit, or Distinction. Read more...

Q: Do I need to physically attend anywhere to take this course? 
A: No. This course is fully distance learning. There are no classes or exams to attend in person, which can save time and travel costs. Read more...

Q: How are the courses assessed?
A: Assessment is through written assignments such as essays, reports, presentations, and question-based tasks. There are no exams. Assignments are worth 3, 6, or 9 credits, and the time allowed varies accordingly, although you can often submit earlier if you want to complete the course more quickly. 3 credits = 2 week to start the assignment and submit, 6 credits = 4 weeks and 9 credits = 6 weeks. Read more...

Q: Can I resubmit an assignment or improve a grade?
A: Once you achieve a pass or a merit grade you cannot resubmit, this is termed as 'polishing the grade' and the QAA do not allow resubmissions to gain a higher grade.

Q: How many hours per week will I need to study?
A: As a general guide, Skills and Education Group Access recommend around 10 study hours per credit. If you aim to complete the course in 12 months, this usually works out at around 12 hours per week on average. Read more...

Q: How difficult is an Access to HE Diploma?
A: The diploma is a Level 3 qualification and requires regular independent study, research and written assignment work. Students returning to education may initially find academic writing and time management challenging, but learning materials, tutor guidance and feedback are provided throughout the course.

Q: Can I take a short course for continuing professional development?
A: Yes. If you have been advised that fewer than 60 credits are needed for your progression, contact us to discuss the available options. Read more...

Q: What is moderation?
A: There are two types of moderation: internal and external. Internal moderation helps ensure that grading is fair and consistent, while external moderation by the awarding organisation confirms student achievement and leads to the final award of the diploma certificate. Read more...

Q: When is moderation?
A: External moderation for certification usually takes place in June or July for September university starters, and in November or December for January university starters. Read more...

Q: When do I receive my certificate?
A: Certificates are usually issued within four weeks of the Final Awards Board. Read more...

Q: What do grades and grading mean?
A: Graded units are awarded at Pass, Merit, or Distinction. Universities often specify how many Merits and Distinctions they expect applicants to achieve. You can use our UCAS Tariff Points calculator to work out what grades you may need for entry. Read more...

Q: How many UCAS Tariff points is an Access to HE Diploma worth?
A: UCAS Tariff points are awarded for the 45 graded Level 3 credits. The total depends on the combination of Pass, Merit and Distinction grades achieved. Achieving Distinction grades across all 45 graded credits is equivalent to 144 UCAS Tariff points.

Q: Do universities accept online Access to HE Diplomas?
A: Many UK higher education providers accept QAA-recognised Access to HE Diplomas, including diplomas completed through distance learning. Acceptance is not automatic. Individual courses may require a particular diploma title, subject-credit profile, number of Merit or Distinction credits, GCSEs or relevant experience. Read more...

Q: Can I study an Access to HE Diploma while working full-time?
A: Yes. The online format allows students to organise their studies around employment and other responsibilities. However, students must allow enough time for reading, research and assignments. Someone aiming to complete within 12 months should plan for approximately 12 hours of study each week on average.

Q: Can I extend or pause my course?
A: We understand that personal circumstances can change, and this course is designed to be flexible. We offer the opportunity to put your course on hold for a minimum of one month and up to 12 months which enables you to freeze your course and save your study days. Read more...
If you need additional time to complete the course you can purchase the course extension fee option.

Q: What computer equipment and software will I need?
A: You will need a reliable laptop or desktop computer with an internet connection. A current web browser and word-processing software will also be required to access course materials, conduct research and complete and upload assignments. We have access to free word-processing software if you do not have this on your computer.

Q: If I want to stop my course, do I still have to pay?
A: The monthly payment option is designed to help learners manage the financial side of studying. These are not monthly study payments, but part of an agreement to pay the full course amount. Read more...