International

Choosing the right type of course is very important. Solihull College offers a variety of courses for International students. Age needn’t be a barrier as we have a range of levels and qualifications to suit everyone including university Level courses such as HNCs, HNDs, Foundation Degrees, Degrees and professional qualifications.

Level 3

Courses usually last two years.

Entry Requirements:
• 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above (incl. English and/or Maths) or equivalent Level 2 qualification.
• Relevant Industry experience will be considered.
• Successful College Assessment or Interview

AS/ A2 Levels

A Levels are made up of the AS Level and the A2 Level. Each part makes up 50% of the overall A Level grade. AS and A Levels are one of the main routes into university level education.

BTEC National Diploma

BTEC National Diplomas are vocational courses related to a broad occupational area, combining practical, hands-on activities with detailed technical study. You may also be able to take part in related work experience.

Access to Higher Education and Foundation programmes

Course usually last 10 months to 1 year.

• Students will normally be aged 19 years and above
• No formal qualifications are required but students will need to have completed 10+2 years of study.

International foundation programme (IFP)

This programme is designed to prepare International students for higher education. The objective of the IFP is to convert your existing academic ability into skills that will help you study effectively in the UK. This includes basic study knowledge in your future field of study.

Entry requirements include a minimum of 4 GCSEs / equivalent. Minimum IELTS score 5.0

Available in the following subject areas:
Computing
Business
Business and Information Technology

Foundation programme – Art & Design

This programme is for one year and provides an introduction to a wide range of art and design areas. Students should be at least 18 years of age and have an AS/A2 or equivalent in Art & Design. Students must be able to indicate and enthusiasm for art and therefore application should be made direct to the College.

Access Programmes (Preparing for higher education)

These programmes are designed for adults with no formal qualifications. They provide an excellent route to gain admission onto an extensive range of programmes including degrees, HNDs or HNCs. They are also well-recognised qualifications in their own rights.

Access programmes are available in the following areas:
Business with Information technology
Graphic Design
Health Studies
Higher Education
Physical Education and Sport Science
Science

Level 4

Courses usually last between one and two years.

Entry Requirements:
• Applicants under 21 will need to have 4 GCSEs at Grade C or above (incl. English and Maths) and either one A Level or equivalent Level 3 qualification.
• Applicants over 21 must have appropriate work experience.
• Successful College Assessment

HNC/Ds (Higher National Certificates/Higher National Diplomas)

HNCs and HNDs focus on 'learning by doing' and can lead into a new career, or help you progress in your current line of work. They can also be used as a stepping stone to gain a managerial role or professional status within your employment. Some HNC/Ds can take you directly to the second or third level of a Degree.

Level 5

Courses usually last between three and four years full time.
Entry Requirements:
• You should be 18 years +
• Successfully completed a Level 3 qualification (Minimum of 180 UCAS Points or 2 A Levels) or equivalent
• Successful College Assessment or Interview

Degrees

Bachelor degrees develop your analytical, intellectual and essay writing skills that are increasingly being demanded by employers. They are studied through lecture and seminar-based learning with practical components where the subject requires and are assessed through projects, written assignments, and examinations and, in most cases, a dissertation.