What is the HNC?

While the most common undergraduate qualification is a Bachelor's degree, that doesn't mean it's your only option! The HNC is also available for those pursuing a specific hands-on career and prefer more practical learning. Here we share all there is to know about the HNC, entry requirements and more.

What is a HNC qualification?

HNC stands for Higher National Certificate. It's a vocational qualification awarded by Edexcel in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and by the SQA in Scotland.

The HNC qualification is a level 4 qualification in the UK, except for Scotland, where it's a level 7. You'll gain practical skills and knowledge for specific industries and job roles throughout your time on the course. The HNC balances the theory with practical experiences to give you the necessary skills and understanding to step out into the working world.

HNCs are likely to run at further or higher education colleges, with some universities also running courses. Take a look at HNC courses to get a sense of your study options.

What are the assessments like?

Throughout your course, there will be numerous assessments of both practical work as well as written assignments and projects. These methods of assessment can be preferred by students over sitting exams at the end of the year. By doing the assessments throughout the year, you'll have a better sense of where you're at and how well you're doing. It also avoids the intense pressure and stress that can come with exams.

How is the HNC graded?

At the end of your course, your HNC result will awarded as a Pass (P), Merit (M) or Distinction (D), with Distinction being the highest grade you can achieve. If you don't meet the criteria to be awarded a Pass, you'll receive an unclassified (U) grade.

What is the HNC equivalent to?

Compared to other education levels in the UK, the HNC sits at level 4. This is the equivalent of the first year of a Bachelor's degree. Once you complete your HNC, you could go on to study for your HND (Higher National Diploma) or some universities accept the credits from your HNC as a stepping stone to a full Bachelor's degree.

While the HNC, HND and Bachelor's degrees are all undergraduate degrees, they sit at slightly different levels with differing approaches to teaching and different qualification outcomes. When deciding the best route for you, take some time to explore your options, and understand which is best for your subject and way of learning. Find our advice on how to make your decision.

How long is the HNC?

If studied full-time, the HNC will take one year to complete. It can be two to four years if taken as a part-time HNC qualification.

When can I take the HNC?

In England, the HNC can be taken after completing your A-Levels, or Advanced Highers in Scotland. They are most commonly taken after college and before university, or between college and full-time employment.

HNCs can also be studied as part of a student apprenticeship, with the HNC making up the knowledge-based sections and contributing to the overall success of your apprenticeship.

Alternatively, you may choose to study a HNC when you're already employed. This can be a great way to progress in your career, allowing you to level up your skills and knowledge. If you think this would benefit you, speak to your employer and see how they can support your studies.

HNC entry requirements

HNC students are required to have at least one A-Level in England or have two passes at Higher Level in Scotland.

Is the HNC a good qualification?

If you're trying to decide which next step is best for you, you'll look at the pros and cons of each option. When it comes to the HNC, it's a great option for those unsure about university and whether a Bachelor's degree is the right choice for them. It costs a lot less and is seen as a more flexible way of learning.

For those who prefer a more practical approach to education and still want to qualify to help their employment, the HNC has many subjects you can choose to study. These subjects include anything from agriculture to art and design, hair and beauty, marketing, hospitality, tourism, manufacturing and so much more.

How much does a HNC cost?

The cost of a HNC ranges from £4,000 to £8,000 and is commonly £6,000. Payments are typically made per unit.

Students eligible for Student Finance England can apply for a tuition fee loan to cover the costs of their HNC.

Can I get onto a degree course with an HNC?

It's quite common for universities to accept you for the second year of a Bachelor's degree if you've gained a HNC qualification in a closely related subject. For most degree programmes, that means you only need to complete two more years of study, rather than three.

If you decide to continue with full-time work after your HNC, but want to consider a degree in the future, the Open University allows you to transfer credits from HNCs completed up to 16 years prior. So there's no rush in deciding whether to do a full degree after your HNC is complete.

What universities accept HNC?

It sometimes depends on the specific course you're interested in, but plenty of universities accept applicants with HNC qualifications. The University of Edinburgh, The University of Westminster, and The University of Glasgow, amongst others, consider HNCs acceptable for entry to their courses.

Always check directly with the provider. The University of Glasgow, for example, permits HNC students to begin an Applied Chemistry degree in the second year, but Bioscience students must start from the first year, whilst medicine students are not accepted onto the degree with an HNC at all. Because admission criteria vary so much, even within a single university, you should contact the university for the most up-to-date information.

What's next?

Whatever you choose to do with your HNC, it's a worthwhile qualification to have and opens up many educational possibilities that may not have been an option with your previous qualifications. It also offers you a good skill set that most employers will recognise should you choose this route – good luck with whatever is next!