Doing a degree?

[pixiewicks]

hi,

just need some advice, I want to apply to do a degree in social work, starting this september the problem is i am 31 years old, i don't have my gcse certificates or my college certificates as I have moved a few times since school. I 've looked into it and realise I have to buy them which would be £15.00 per subject, which i just cannot afford, because of my age do you think they would just take it that what I say i got in my subject they will just believe me?

This is putting me off applying, but i really want to apply!

Anyone have any advice?

Thank you!

 

[My_First]

When i applied for a Masters, I had to prove my undergraduate degree. (I am 35) What you could do is apply and see what they say? A few things,. if you can afford £3000 a year for the course would £15 really be that much more? They may only want to see that you have English, Maths and Science so that could keep the costs down. I would think the priority one would be the College certificate, as its your most recent education, plus if you dont have it they may ask you to do a foundation course first, to demonstrate that you have the capabilities to study at degree level, which could then cost more?

 

[nugget80]

as far as i know for under graduate courses you need to show gcse and a level certificates. they wont just take your word for it. no harm in applying though, if they require them they will let you know and give you time to get them together...

 

[Dinah93]

I had to provide all my A-level results and GCSEs certificates when I applied for a second MSc recently - despite already having shown them my BSc degree parchment and my first MSc parchment, so I would think you'd need to provide evidence of your gcse's. Do you have any old clutter you could car boot or sell on ebay to raise some money? I have been having a good clear out in preparation for our baby coming and have raised over £1600 in the last two months just through selling our old clothes, books and some dvds.

 

[aimee-lou]

My hubby applied to Uni (started in 2010) and was NEVER asked for anything.

He however was doing a foundation degree, which basically included his access course but in a university environment. As a result he wasn't expected to have anything really. He does have GCSEs and A levels, but like you doesn't have his certificates (he never even collected them!)

I think with mature applications, they go from the general quality of the application, and from your interview if you have one. Might be worth giving the Uni you're applying to to speak to the admissions office and see what their policies are.

 

[2011butterfly]

WSS
When I started my foundation degree they only asked for my level 3 certificate. As your a mature student they may not be so strict in ensuring you have your GCSEs.. GOOD LUCK

 

[OmiOmen]

You need to show them to do an undergraduate degree but the chances are due to the length of time between them they may not except them anyway. Sometimes if you talk to the university (I also recommend asking the program leader as they will sometimes be more willing to sign you on to the course) they will let you on if you can prove commitment to learning and life experience. This is not a given but it some universities and lecturers are willing to consider it. For example if you had worked in something linked with social work and have some knowledge of the area. Although social work is a competitive degree to get a place on so this may not be an option.

More than likely you will have to do a foundation degree or access course. However the funding works very similar for the foundation degree to the undergraduate course which is a plus.