Globally Recognized University Pathway Programs
How top-up degrees work
All academic courses offered by Global Education Academy (GEA) are recognized by Ofqual, and universities generally accept the credits awarded to students. It is important for students to inform the university that their qualification is Ofqual RQF validated at the specified level and credit value. GEA can provide students with the necessary Ofqual documentation and transcripts. Alternatively, students can visit the Ofqual website at https://register.ofqual.gov.uk/ to verify the qualification. Each university will assess applications based on its own specific entry requirements.
Graduating GEA students can progress onto a university program at different stages, depending on their completed Ofqual-accredited program:
Undergraduate Entry: Typically, upon completion of a Level 3 Freshman program.
Top-Up Degree: Available to students who have completed Level 4, Level 5, or Level 6 programs.
These level equivalencies can be further explored on our ‘Levels 3-7 Explained’ page. Generally, the levels are structured as follows:
- Level 3: Undergraduate entry.
- Level 4: First year of a degree.
- Level 5: Second year of a degree.
- Level 6: Final year of a degree.
- Level 7: Postgraduate level.
For university top-up courses, students should ideally have a qualification in a relevant subject. While the chosen course should be closely related to the previous qualification, it does not necessarily have to be the same subject. In many cases, if students have completed their Level 3 to 7 qualifications in English, an IELTS may not be required. This flexibility allows GEA students to pursue a wide range of career or further academic opportunities upon graduation. Universities typically assess not only formal qualifications but also broader experiences and motivations when considering applications.
Progression options
On completion of an Global Education Academy course, students have the following options available to them:
Study FULL TIME or PART TIME on campus in the UK for top-up courses or direct entry to university
Most Universities will accept Ofqual credits for advanced entry. Therefore students can choose their own University to study full time for a shorter period. Many Universities will also offer part time study programmes either as day release or evening study. Some may also offer weekend workshops. Please check this with your preferred University. (Click here to Find a University). Students should understand that these are general guidelines. Students should always check the requirements with their preferred University or local University Agent if they intend to apply. Many Universities operate part time/evening provision, and students should check possibilities with their preferred Universities first.
Study with UK Universities BASED OVERSEAS
Some UK Universities operate overseas Campuses and may accept local students on their programmes with advanced entry. For example, UK Universities have campuses in Dubai, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, amongst many others. Students should check locally for these arrangements. There are several UK Campuses in UAE https://www.guide2dubai.com/living/education/british-universities-dubai Other examples are Hong Kong, Cyprus, Mauritius and several parts of South Asia. International students looking to complete in the UK may also visit the NARIC website to view equivalencies https://www.naric.org.uk/naric/
Study with NON UK UNIVERSITIES
Students may want to study at Institutions nearer their home country or qualifications outside of UK. For example many Australian and Canadian Universities offer distance learning and will recognise equivalent UK qualifications on a case by case basis.
USA Universities will generally accept UK advanced entry students and equivalence but there is a huge difference between regions and Universities with general policy.
Study for an AMBA MBA
The Association of MBAs is a membership organisation that provides accreditation and upholds the highest international standards of MBA programmes. Many UK Universities are Members and offer distance learning study. Although credits cannot be given, admission can be gained via the Global Education Academy Level 6 or 7 plus the requisite additional entry requirements of your chosen University. Students should check the regulations of their chosen University first.
If you require more information regarding specific progression routes, these are available on each course page under ‘university progression’, alternatively you can contact the Global Education Academy Support team on info@ge.academy for further advice and guidance.