Starting in second or third year (advanced entry and transfer)
If you already hold a Level 6 or Level 7 qualification, some colleges will admit you straight into second or third year of a related degree. You apply to the college directly, not through the CAO, and points do not come into it.
What you actually do
- 1Contact the admissions office of the college and ask for its advanced entry or transfer process.
- 2Send your transcript and module list so they can compare it with their own years.
- 3Apply by the college's own deadline, often earlier than the CAO's.
- 4If accepted, you start in second or third year and skip what you have already covered.
The dates that matter
Set by each college and usually earlier in the spring than the CAO. Ask in writing.
The hard part, said plainly
It depends on how closely your modules line up, so two students with the same award can get different answers. Places also depend on there being room in that year group.
Courses you can get into this way
0 courses in our 2026 research set have this route. Type a course or college to narrow it down.
Questions students ask about this route
Can I start college in second year?
Yes, where your existing Level 6 or Level 7 award covers the first year content. You apply to the college directly rather than through the CAO.