Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

We highly value the skills and discipline of former military personnel and we recognise this in our application processes.

We welcome applications from people with non-traditional entry qualifications and experience. We are looking for applicants who have a determination to succeed on one of our courses.

Evidence of your previous learning could include:

• Professional experience
• Professional qualifications
• Previous study

Applicants for this entry scheme will need to have Grade C / 4 in English Language GCSE or equivalent. Please be aware that we cannot accept Functional Skills in lieu of our English Language requirements. If you do not have the GCSE, we do accept some approved equivalencies. Please contact our Admissions Team at admissions@yorksj.ac.uk to enquire about our accepted English Language qualifications.

Eligible courses

You can apply for most of our courses through the Recognition of Prior Learning Scheme (RPL).

You cannot apply for:

• Applied Biosciences
• Biomedical Science
• Nursing (Adult and Mental Health)
• Physiotherapy
• Initial Teacher Education (Primary Teaching)

This is because all of these courses have specific requirements or are accredited courses that contain specific statutory entry requirements.

How to apply

When you have found an eligible course, complete our short application form.

On this form you will need to include your contact information, details of your previous learning, and a 250 to 500 word personal statement. The personal statement should describe:

• Why you want to study with us
• Why you are suitable for the course
• What skills and experience you bring

RPL Application Form

What happens after you apply

We will assess your application quickly.

If you meet the qualification requirements, we will ask you to produce a piece of work relevant to your chosen subject. For some subjects, we may also invite you in for an interview and for Art and Design courses you'll be asked to bring in a portfolio of work.

We will ask you to send in a scan or photo of your GCSE English Language certificate.

If you are successful, we will make you an offer. 

If we think you will be capable of university study in the future but are not ready to complete a full degree at this time, we will offer you a foundation year to help you get back into the swing of study, or recommend you take an access course.

If we make you an offer

We will set up a quick process for you to make a formal application through UCAS. We can do this without you making a full application or paying an application fee.

We will help you to make a student funding application.

We will make sure that you are well supported throughout your studies with a personal tutor at the course level, small tutorial class sizes and additional support available outside of class time.