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What qualifications do I need?
Course Level Typical Minimum
Entry Requirements
Level 1 Introductory Diplomas 2 GCSEs at grade D to G or:
· Pass at BTEC Entry Level or Certificate or equivalent
Level 2 Vocational (e.g. BTEC) 4 GCSEs at grade C/D/E or:
· Pass at BTEC Introductory Diploma (or equivalent)
· Pass at NVQ Level
Level 2 GCSE 4 GCSEs at grade D or above
Level 3 Vocational (e.g. BTEC) 4 GCSEs at grade A* to C or:
· a pass at NVQ Level 2 and either English Language or Maths at GCSE grade C or above (or equivalent)
· Pass/Merit/Distinction at BTEC Level 2 Diploma and either English Language or Maths at GCSE grade C or above (or equivalent)
· The college has the discretion to determine if 4 or 5 GCSEs will be the entry requirement where students can show they are prepared for study at Advanced Level
Level 3 AS/A2 5 GCSEs A* to C including English Language or Maths
(or equivalent) and:
· The applicant will need at least a grade C in subjects studied at GCSE where applicable.
Please see individual course leaflets for details of course-specific entry requirements.
All students attend an interview on application and show commitment to the course of study.
If you have not achieved at least Level C in English Language and Maths by the time you join us we will support you to achieve these.
Applicants for Visual Arts qualifications must show evidence of a portfolio of work to an acceptable standard.
Applicants for Performing Arts qualifications must take part in a taster/audition activity.
Supporting your success
English Language and Maths
Whatever your aims and course choices, to be successful in future you will need to be effective in English Language and Maths. Employers and universities tell us that these are critical skills and we are committed to helping you achieve your ambitions.
If you have not yet achieved grade C or above in English Language and Maths by the time you join us, you will be required to study these alongside your main programme of study to help maximise your future employment prospects.
Choosing the right courses
Individual course leaflets
Please see our individual course leaflets for details of the courses you are interested in. These leaflets include information on specific entry requirements and suggested course combinations - see the link direct to our website: www.bit.ly/nctcourses
Informed choices
Our students can choose from a mix of academic courses (e.g. A Levels) and vocational courses (e.g. BTECs). It is possible to mix and match courses to suit your particular needs and aims in a narrow range or across a much broader range. The choice is yours…
For details of course combinations related to specific career aims see:
Informed Choices is aimed at all students considering A-level and equivalent options. It includes advice on the best subject combinations for a wide range of university courses as well as advice on the best choices if you don’t know what you want to study after school and need to keep your options open.
The Russell Group of 20 leading UK universities’ guide to post-16 subject choices is produced in collaboration with the Institute of Career Guidance.