We are proud of the fact that Heriot-Watt University has a long history of welcoming students from a whole variety of routes. This includes pupils from schools where applications to university are low, students who have no family background or cultural experience of higher education, and mature students with no formal qualifications who might want a second chance to enter university via an access course. We have articulation arrangements with a number of local further education colleges enabling their students to apply for a higher qualification at Heriot-Watt availing of exemptions, where applicable.

see also: access, admissions, colleges, further, swap

School pupils in Edinburgh, Midlothian, East or West Lothian, may be eligible for the support of Lothian Equal Access Programme for Schools (LEAPS) which aims to promote higher education to young people and help prepare them for the transition from school to university. Heriot-Watt University is an active partner in LEAPS, which supports pupils from families has little or no experience of university, or those that have been affected by adverse circumstances that have affected their studies over the years. The University pledges to make conditional offers wherever possible to LEAPS eligible students.

see also: access, admissions, leaps

Heriot-Watt has a diverse student population made up of young and mature students from throughout the UK, Europe and overseas. Every year, a number of mature learners become students at the University having successfully completed an HNC/D, Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP), or other Access course, or a range of Highers. The University values the impressive personal qualities and eagerness to engage with the learning process that mature students very often demonstrate and we make every effort to provide an experience that meets their needs and assist in the successful achievement of their academic and career goals.

see also: access, admissions, further, mature, swap

The Recruitment and Admissions Service is on hand to provide advice and support to prospective applicants, their parents and advisers, at every stage of the process or applying to University. We provide all the information and opportunities you need to ensure that you are able to make the right choice. We'll be available to support you through the application process and to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. A recent national survey found that over 94% of students at Heriot-Watt believed they had selected the right course - one of the highest figures in the UK.

see also: access, admissions, courses, international, liaison, set, student, wider