Support for education leavers - click here!

Higher education includes university degrees, foundation degrees, Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) and other qualifications studied at Level 4 and above.Studying at a higher level can help you develop specialist knowledge, improve your career prospects and access professions that require degree-level qualifications.Whether you're certain that university is right for you or still considering alternatives such as apprenticeships or employment, it's important to explore all your options and compare the different routes available. Our partners at Next Steps South West offer excellent resources to help you understand higher education and make informed decisions about your future.You may also find the following websites useful:UCASDiscover UniWhatuniThe Uni Guide Applying through UCASApplications for most undergraduate courses are made through UCAS, which provides information on:finding coursesentry requirementspersonal statementsapplication deadlinesstudent financechoosing and comparing universities. Visit the UCAS website to explore your options and begin your application. What is Clearing?If your plans change or you don't receive the results or offers you were expecting, Clearing can help you find available university places.You may be able to use Clearing if:you apply after the main application deadlineyou do not receive any offersyou do not meet the conditions of your offersyou decide not to accept your existing placeyou are applying after receiving your qualifications. Visit the UCAS website for the latest information on Clearing, eligibility and available courses.

Apprenticeships aren't just for school leavers. Opportunities are available at Levels 4, 5, 6 and 7, allowing you to continue learning while earning a wage.Higher and Degree Apprenticeships combine employment with higher-level qualifications and can provide an alternative to university for many careers. Visit our Secure an Apprenticeship page to explore local opportunities and find out more.

If you're not ready for university or want to gain additional qualifications, there are many opportunities available through colleges, training providers and adult learning programmes. These could include:Professional qualificationsTechnical qualificationsAccess to Higher Education coursesAdult community learningEnglish and maths qualificationsIndustry-specific training programmes See more detail on local options here.

Cost is often a key consideration when deciding your next step, but financial support is available for many learners. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for:student loans for tuition feesmaintenance loans to help with living costsgrants and bursariesadditional support for disabled studentsfinancial support for parents and carersprovider-specific scholarships and bursaries. Unlike grants and bursaries, student loans are typically repaid once you earn above the relevant repayment threshold. For the most up-to-date information, visit the Government's student finance website.

Plymouth offers a wide range of opportunities to study at Level 4 and above, whether you're looking for a full university experience, a higher technical qualification or degree-level study close to home.Local providers include:Arts University PlymouthCity College PlymouthCornwall CollegePlymouth Marjon UniversitySouth Devon CollegeUniversity of PlymouthStudying locally can provide flexibility, reduce living costs and allow you to stay connected to your support network while continuing your education.

You may decide that now is the right time to move directly into employment.Whether you're looking for your first full-time role, changing career direction or taking the next step in your career journey, our Find a Job resources can help with:job searchingCV writingapplicationsinterview preparationunderstanding opportunities in Plymouth's growing sectors.

If you have a business idea or entrepreneurial ambitions, self-employment could be an option.Explore resources, local support programmes and guidance to help you understand what's involved in starting and growing your own business.Click here to find out more.

Work experience and volunteering can help you build confidence, gain practical skills and strengthen your CV while exploring different sectors and career paths. Whether you're looking to gain industry experience, develop employability skills or explore a new career direction, our dedicated Work Experience and Volunteering resources can help.

There are a range of programmes available that can help you progress into employment, further learning or a new career. These include:apprenticeshipsSupported Internships (for eligible young people with an EHCP)T Level transition programmesFurther education and college coursesSkills BootcampsSector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs)Employer-led work experience and pre-employment programmes Explore our individual resource pages to learn more about each pathway and whether it could be the right fit for you.

It's never too late to develop new skills, gain qualifications or change direction. Whether you're looking to retrain, progress within your current career or return to education after a break, there are many opportunities available across Plymouth and the South West. Training and adult learning opportunities are available through local colleges, training providers and community organisations. Visit our Further Study and Training section to explore the opportunities and support available.

New opportunities become available throughout the year, so it's worth checking back regularly. News and eventsVisit our News and Events section for the latest information on:Jobs and vacanciesApprenticeshipsSkills programmesCareers eventsTraining opportunitiesEmployer engagement activitiesLocal support initiatives Youth Hub opportunities mailerSign up for our free monthly Youth Hub Opportunities Mailer to receive a roundup of the latest opportunities across Plymouth. Each edition includes:apprenticeship opportunitiescareers eventslocal support servicestraining programmesvolunteering links. It's a simple way to stay connected with the latest opportunities in one place.

If you're unsure about your next step, additional support is available. You can also explore:Plymouth's growing industries and future career opportunitiesCareers information and planning resourcesFree Careers and Skills Plans through the National Careers ServiceWellbeing support if you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed or uncertain about your futureWhatever your next step, take time to explore your options, use the resources available and choose the pathway that feels right for you.