Website of the UK government

Finding out what higher education is all about

Higher education, with all the benefits it can bring, is open to anyone with the ability to succeed - whatever their background.

The Aimhigher programme aims to ensure that everyone is aware of this - and of the range of course options that can help people study in a way that suits them.

Activities supported by the programme include:

• visits to university campuses
• residential summer schools
• master-classes and open days
• mentoring schemes

Aimhigher: what’s going on near you?

Aimhigher activities take place nationally, across nine regions and within 45 local areas in England.

Ask at your school or college whether they’re hosting an Aimhigher event or other activities to do with applying for higher education.

Alternatively, most local areas have their own Aimhigher websites - and some post details of upcoming Aimhigher events.

• Find your local Aimhigher area website Opens new window

Higher education: getting more information on your options

There’s a huge variety of higher education courses on offer, with lots of different study options. Directgov can help you explore what’s available and find the one that’s just right for you, whatever your age or circumstances.

As well as advice on choosing a course, in the ‘University and higher education’ section you’ll find information on:

• what higher education can do for you - and what student life is like
• flexible ways to study - including part-time courses that let you work while you’re learning
• the different ways of getting into higher education - whether you’re expecting to get A levels or other qualifications like NVQs or a BTEC - and information on Access to Higher Education courses for people without formal qualifications
• details of the financial support available

• University and higher education

Information for young people

While it’s important to keep your options open, it’s never too early to start thinking about the future - or finding out what higher education could do for you.

• Your choices in Year 9
• Getting into university and higher education

Information for parents

If you have a child who is considering higher education, you may have some questions about what it’s like - especially if you didn’t go to university or college yourself. Follow the link below to find out.

• University and higher education: your child’s options (parents section)

Information for Aimhigher practitioners

The Aimhigher programme is run by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), with support from the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS).

• Information for Aimhigher practitioners Opens new window