Nursing Degree Entry Requirements: GCSEs, Access to HE and UCAS

Nursing degree entry requirements vary between universities, but most providers will look for a suitable Level 3 qualification, English and Maths at Level 2, a strong application and evidence that you understand the nursing role.

Typical GCSE requirements for nursing

Many nursing degrees ask for GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above. Some universities also ask for Science GCSE. Functional Skills Level 2 English and Maths may be accepted by some providers, but not all.
If you do not already hold the required English or Maths qualification, you may be able to study Functional Skills or GCSEs alongside your Access to HE Diploma. Check your target universities before deciding which option to take.

Access to HE requirements

Universities commonly accept a QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma for nursing applications. Offers may specify:

• completion of the full 60-credit diploma;
• a minimum number of credits at Merit or Distinction;
• science or health-related units within the diploma;
• GCSE English, Maths and sometimes Science alongside the diploma.

Academy Online Learning's Access to Nursing route is delivered through the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Science Professions), which includes health science and nursing-relevant units.

Checking the formal diploma title

Some university pages use broad phrases such as "Access to Nursing", "Access to HE in Nursing" or "Access to Health Professions". These phrases are often used to describe suitable subject routes, but universities normally still assess the exact Access to HE Diploma title, units and grades.
When contacting admissions teams, say that you are planning to study the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Science Professions) online with Academy Online Learning, and ask whether your intended unit combination is suitable for the nursing degree you want.

UCAS points and grade profiles

Some universities use UCAS Tariff points, while others specify an exact Access grade profile. The maximum UCAS Tariff for an Access to HE Diploma is 144 points, depending on grades achieved. Competitive nursing courses may ask for high Merit and Distinction profiles.

Work experience and personal statement

Relevant experience can strengthen your nursing application. Universities may value paid care work, volunteering, healthcare experience, caring responsibilities or other roles where you can show communication, empathy, reliability and reflection.
Your personal statement should explain why you want to become a nurse, what you understand about the profession, and how your experience has prepared you for degree-level study and clinical placements.

Can you apply while still studying Access to HE?

Yes. Many Access learners apply through UCAS while still completing the diploma. Your tutor can provide predicted grades and an academic reference if your application is linked to Academy Online Learning.

What to check before enrolling

• Whether each university accepts Access to HE for the nursing degree you want.
• Whether Functional Skills are accepted or GCSEs are required.
• Whether Science GCSE is required.
• The number of Merit and Distinction credits needed.
• Whether specific Access units are required.
• Any work experience, interview or occupational health requirements.

Next step

If you are planning to apply for nursing, start by shortlisting several universities and checking their published entry requirements. Then compare those requirements with the Access to Nursing course structure.
View our Access to Nursing course or read the full guide to becoming a nurse.