Not all new students on our 4-year undergraduate degree programmes begin their studies in Year 1. Each year a number of successful applicants are offered a place in Year 2 or 3 instead. Beginning your studies in this way is often referred to as advanced entry or direct entry.
The following are the most common routes to advanced entry at the GSA:
Foundation Diplomas in Art and Design
The Foundation Diploma in Art and Design or Diploma in Art & Design: Foundation Studies (awarded by UAL, BTEC, WJEC, ABC, and others) is one of the most common entry routes to the GSA for UK applicants studying in England, Northern Ireland or Wales. The UAL Foundation is also offered in Scotland at Edinburgh College. Many applicants from a Foundation are considered for Year 2 entry although some may be offered Year 1.
HNC or HND qualifications (usually) at a Scottish college of Further & Higher Education
Due to the way students studying in Scotland are funded, there is a lot of work to support and encourage advanced entry for students studying HNCs or HNDs at college into higher education. This is often referred to as 'articulation' and some college courses may have agreements to help support HNC/D students to progress - or articulate - from college into art school or university.
Click here to learn more about articulation and progression from Scottish colleges.
Level 3 Diplomas in Art and Design at a UK institution outside of Scotland
In some cases, applicants with a BTEC/UAL Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in Art and Design are also considered for advanced entry, although Year 1 is usually offered.
Other qualifications
Applicants with previous qualifications at SCQF Level 7/EQF Level 4 may also be considered for advanced entry. In most cases these qualifications will be in a relevant subject area. Refer to the pages linked below to find out more and see examples of successful efolios.
The Admissions Process is the same for applicants for advanced entry as for Year 1. Each programme has slightly different criteria and processes, so make sure you fully understand them by reading through the information available on the relevant pages which can be found here.
You may also find this Open Day talk about Advanced Entry useful
Click here for further information, advice and guidance.
