School qualifications

These school qualifications can be counted towards the entry requirements for the programme you want to study at Heriot-Watt University.

Standard Grades and Intermediate 2

Although entry requirements to the University are set for Highers and Advanced Highers, it is also a requirement of every applicant to have Standard Grade English at level 3 or above, or Intermediate 2 English. For some programmes, Standard Grade Maths at level 3 or above, plus one science subject, is an additional requirement.

Highers & Advanced Highers

An offer of a place will generally be based on a combination of passes in Highers and, where appropriate, Advanced Highers. Admissions tutors often ask for passes at specific grades in specific subjects in order to ensure that students from school have the background knowledge and general ability to cope with the demands of their chosen programme. Entry may be from fifth or sixth year. Admissions tutors may increase entry requirements for applicants taking Highers over more than one sitting in fifth and sixth year.

If you obtain good grades in relevant Higher and Advanced Higher subjects, you may qualify for advanced entry into the second year of study. We have developed bridging programmes in several subject areas to help you transition from school directly into the second year of your degree programme.

A Levels & AS Levels

Tutors commonly look for specific grades and specific relevant subjects in A Levels. Applicants are advised to consult the admissions tutor as to the acceptability of AS Levels in particular subjects for particular programmes. The VCE Double Award is also welcomed by the University.

If you obtain good grades in relevant subjects, you may qualify for advanced entry into the second year of study. We have developed bridging courses in several subject areas to help you transition from school directly into the second year of your degree programme.

Scottish Baccalaureate

We welcome applications from holders of the new Scottish Baccalaureates. Offers will normally be based on the Highers and Advanced Highers within the qualification.

Welsh Baccalaureate

We welcome applicants presenting the Welsh Baccalaureate in combination with an additional A Level.

Diplomas

We welcome applicants presenting 14-19 Diplomas for entry to our Undergraduate programmes in relevant subject areas. Certain programmes may have specific subject requirements.