Advanced Entry to the GSA: Advice for Applicants
Whether you're applying for Year 1 or for advanced entry (Year 2 or Year 3), admission to the GSA is very competitive. For further advice on applying to the GSA, the Widening Participation pages are a great resource.
Admissions Process
As with most art schools, the Admissions Process at GSA includes a few different stages and begins with your UCAS application.
Be sure to triple-check admissions criteria for your programme through the How to Apply pages.
What level should I apply to?
Before applying for further study, think seriously about what you hope to gain from degree-level study. This should help inform the level you ultimately apply to. The programme team considering your application may move it to the level they think is most appropriate and you may be considered at that level regardless of which year you applied to.
Whatever you decide, it is helpful if you indicate the level you wish to be considered for as your Entry Point on your UCAS form.
GETTING CREDIT FOR PRIOR LEARNING
HNCs, HNDs and Foundation Diplomas are usually considered at the same level as Year 1 (SCQF Level 7 / HNC or Foundation) or above (SCQF Level 8 / HND). This means in some circumstances, they may be used to replace 1-2 years of study at university or art school. Foundation applicants are commonly considered for Year 2 entry– especially in Fine Art programmes. And, it is becoming more common for an HNC graduate to start in Year 2 or an HND graduate to join us in Year 3. Many successful applicants with an HND will be given an offer of Year 2.
STUDY ABROAD or ERASMUS EXCHANGE?
Is Study Abroad or Erasmus exchange something you want to experience? If so, these opportunities are usually offered to Year 3 students but must be applied for during Year 2. Third year entry might not be a viable option if you want to go on exchange.
FUNDING?
It's important to also check with SAAS or the appropriate funding body about funding for additional study – you may only be funded for a certain number of years – especially if you have studied at HE level before.
Click here to learn more about applying from Scottish college courses.
