Access Programme

Athene

Hey All,

I was looking for some advice, I am 25 and I am considering applying for Third level and was wondering if anyone has previously attended any of the access programmes that are around; and if so did they find the extra year beneficial? Do the colleges take this year into consideration when assessing potential candidates? Or am I better off just applying as a mature student and not taking part in an access programme?

Sad Professor

I did the UCD Access Course this year. I had previously applied and been declined a place as a mature student. I was 25 as well and really didn't think I needed to do a "back to education" course. But I have to say I'm glad I did it. And I got my place for September.

Do the colleges take this year into consideration when assessing potential candidates?

Absolutely. In the case of UCD you are guaranteed a place if you get over 60 percent. But even without a guarantee I'd say all the universities look favourably on access courses as they are specifically made to prepare students for third level. If nothing else it's a little bit of practice at things like essay format, sourcing and referencing, which are very important at third level. I think knowing them in advance will give you a big advantage over school leavers.

Or am I better off just applying as a mature student and not taking part in an access programme?

Depends if you've got some other course/experience that you can point to. I think universities want to see proof that you can stick a course out. And younger mature students like us can sometimes be at disadvantage since we may not have much equivalent experience to point to. At least that's why I think I was declined the first time.

So I would recommend it, especially as there's going to be a lot of competition for mature student places next year.

Larianne

Sad Professor wrote: »

I think universities want to see proof that you can stick a course out.

This is definitely a reason to do the Access course. It shows it hasn't been a decision made on a whim and going to third level is a natural progression you are aiming for.

I definitely agree with what Sad Professor has said above. I also did an access course at UCD, Science & Engineering. And I got offered a place at both Trinity and UCD, so it's not limited to just UCD.

Personally, the course has given me confidence that I'll be able for the course in September. I was terrible (well I thought) at Maths at school - I got 92% in my exam. I also came away with a liking for Chemistry. The study skills classes were very good and something that I will keep up.

I aslo think there will be a greater number of mature students applying next year, doing an access course will help with your application. But don't count on it alone, especially if you're applying to a course with few places for mature students. Contact the department and see what is required for mature students. Get work experience if possible or voluntary work.

As it's part-time it will allow you to save for next year too!

Athene

Thanks guys that is really helpful, I also has not realised that you do the programme part time. Yeah I think it is a good idea to do a prep course as it shows your serious about committing to the course and also it will give you an idea yourself of what to expect. I think I really wanted to make sure that theay are worthwhile I would feel so deflated if I spent a year preparing for college and then after applying I get turned down, you have however put my m ind at ease. Thanks guys, much appreciated.