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Monday 9am - 5pm Tuesday 9am - 5pm Wednesday 9am - 5pm Thursday 9am - 5pm Friday 9am - 5pm

https://www.ed.ac.uk/lifelong-learning/our-programmes/access-programme2

University of Edinburgh Access Programme, Paterson's Land, Edinburgh (2026)

31/03/2026

Access student, Esther, who is currently taking the Humanities and Social Sciences strand of our programme here at The University of Edinburgh shares more about her experience with the maths course 👇

Esther says:

"The Access Maths for Humanities & Social Sciences course has honestly been such a positive experience. What I love most is how genuinely inclusive it is. Whether you’re coming in with strong maths skills, feeling a bit rusty, or starting almost from scratch, the course is designed to meet you exactly where you are. No pressure, no judgement- just steady support. 💪

The flexibility has been a game‑changer for me. Being able to join online lectures during the week and then attend in‑person workshops means I can fit learning around my life while still getting that face‑to‑face guidance when I need it. It makes the whole experience feel accessible and manageable, even on busy days. 👌

And I have to say, our tutor, Josh (pictured) is incredible! Friendly, patient, and always willing to explain things in different ways until they click. It creates such a comfortable environment where asking questions feels completely normal and building confidence becomes part of the process. 📐

What’s even better is knowing how much this course is preparing me for next year. The maths we’re learning now is giving me a solid foundation for the statistics and computational work I’ll be doing in my undergraduate degree. Instead of feeling intimidated, I’m actually excited to take those skills forward. 📊

So if you’re worried about the maths course on the Access Programme like I initally was, you can rest assured that the support is available to help you absolutely thrive 💙"

*Esther is an Access student and ambassador who has been paid to share her own personal experiences of the 2025/26 Access Programme here at the University of Edinburgh.

The deadline to apply to our 2026/27 programme is next Monday 6 April 2026 👇
https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2

23/03/2026

Like so many of our Access students, Ana, is currently taking our part-time programme here The University of Edinburgh in addition to working full-time and balancing other personal commitments. ⚖️

Over the course of the academic year, along with some of her classmates, she's developed a process and 'mindset' that helps them complete their work and retain the information as efficiently as possible.

Ana says:

"This is how we do it ✨📚
A quiet café or a corner of the library....Headphones on — active noise cancelling, world off.
Fidget toys in hand....A warm drink on the table....And our visual timer set, Pomodoro style. ⏲️

We sit side-by-side, each focused on our own work, yet somehow connected in the same rhythm. When the timer starts, the room fades away. When it ends, we check in, stretch, smile, and begin again.🌞

Sometimes we ask questions. Sometimes we just exist in productive silence. But the simple act of sharing space makes everything feel more possible. 🌻

Studying doesn’t have to be lonely. It can be shared. Intentional. Gentle. Encouraging.
This is how we do it — together 🤍⏳"

*Please note that Ana is an Access student and ambassador who has been paid to share her own personal experiences of the 2025/26 Access Programme here at the University of Edinburgh.

We are currently accepting applications for our 2026/27 Access Programme, which starts in August 2026. Deadline to apply: 6 April 2026 👇

https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2

09/03/2026

Ana, who is currently studying on our Languages & Cultures strand, shares more about the tight-knit community she's found on our part-time programme with fellow Access students this year 👇

One of the most unexpected and beautiful parts of taking the Access Programme here at hasn’t just been the academic growth - it’s been the friendships.

One of the most meaningful parts of the part-time Access Programme here at The University of Edinburgh has been finding people who make this journey feel lighter. 👭

Through my Languages and Cultures classes, I met Ez and Rachael - and what started as sitting in the same classroom slowly evolved into a close friendship...
..Study sessions became coffee dates. Quick questions about assignments turned into long conversations. And shared stress somehow transformed into shared laughter! 😅

There’s something really special about building friendships in a space where you’re all growing, learning, and pushing yourselves. We motivate each other, we support each other, and we’ve created this dynamic where productivity and fun coexist naturally. 👌

University can feel overwhelming at times, but having them by my side has made it feel warm, manageable, and genuinely joyful! 🙏

Ez and Rachael, I’m so grateful this programme brought us together. You’re not just classmates - you’re true friends I truly appreciate 🤍✨

🔗 Applications are still open for our 2026/27 Access Programme starting in August. Deadline Monday 6 April at 5pm - learn more

https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2

20/02/2026

One of this year's Access Programme students and ambassador, Esther, shares more about the support she's received on our programme with applying to undergraduate study at The University of Edinburgh 👇

✨ "When I first started my UCAS journey applying to undergraduate study for 2026/27 entry, everything felt a bit confusing — new systems, new deadlines, new expectations. But being part of the University of Edinburgh’s Access Programme changed everything as there's so much help in place. 🤍

From the moment I set up my UCAS portal, my adviser and the teachers were right there, guiding me through every step with so much patience and clarity. 👌

They didn’t just help with the practical side- they supported us emotionally too. We had guidance sessions on writing personal statements, where teachers helped us shape our ideas, refine our stories, and make sure our voices came through. They checked in regularly, offered feedback, and never made any question feel too small.

One thing I appreciated most was how they constantly reminded us about UCAS timelines. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by deadlines, I felt organised and supported. And when it came to waiting for offers, which was easily the most stressful part, the teachers were always there to reassure us, manage our anxiety, and remind us that our worth isn’t defined by a single decision.

Being part of this programme has given me confidence, clarity, and a community that genuinely wants to see us succeed. As an Access Programme ambassador, I’m proud to share how transformative this support has been and to encourage others to take that first step too.🚶‍♂️‍➡️

Here’s to guidance, growth, and the people who make the journey feel possible!" ✨📚💙

Applications are still open for our 2026/27 part-time Access Programme starting in August - and we're offering a number of different online info sessions depending on what subject your'e interested in studying: https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2/access-events

05/02/2026

Current Access Programme student on our Humanities and Social Science strand, Esther, shares more about her favourite class on our part-time, one-year programme here at The University of Edinburgh 📚

Esther says:

"Life as an Access Programme student here at the University of Edinburgh has been a whirlwind, but if I had to pick a favourite subject, it’s definitely the Humanities module. 🏛️📖

There’s something so grounding about diving into such a massive range of topics. One week we’re dissecting a piece of classic literature, the next we’re debating deep-rooted philosophical questions, or tracing the stories behind iconic art history. It feels like every lecture connects a new dot. 🎨✍️

A huge shoutout to the teachers here, too. Honestly, the support during tutorials makes all the difference—they really create a space where no question is too small.

Plus, the study materials are so well-curated that even the densest topics feel accessible and exciting.

Feeling very lucky to be learning in such a historic city with a community that wants nothing more than to see you thrive. "✨

We're running subject specific online info sessions for our Access Programme this month including one dedicated to Humanities.

To sign up to these free online sessions and meet the teachers and ask any questions, register on our website 🔗https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2/access-events

30/01/2026

Current Access student, Ana, shares more about one of her favourite teachers on the Access Programme's Languages and Culture strand - including what she's learning in class and how it's helping her to prepare for success at undergraduate level next year here The University of Edinburgh 💫

Ana says: "Today I want to take a moment to talk about an Access Programme teacher who has genuinely influenced the way I see language learning: Calder Ferguson. ⭐

In the Languages and Culture strand, Calder—who is half French and half Scottish—teaches us French A1 using the Edito A1 and Edito Cahier d’activités A1 books. 🇫🇷

His classes go far beyond memorising vocabulary or grammar rules. Through structured lessons and constant practice, we are encouraged to understand how language works and how it connects deeply with culture. 🌍

One of the most valuable parts of this course is that we regularly give presentations in English about languages and cultures. 🗣️

This has helped me become more confident when speaking, while also developing a broader perspective on how different cultures communicate and express ideas. These activities have made learning much more dynamic and meaningful. 💡

Learning French in this strand is not just about mastering a new language at a basic level. It is about shaping our brains to think differently, to adapt, and to be open to learning new languages in the future. 🧠

This experience has prepared me mentally and academically for what is coming next, especially as I move into undergraduate studies next year at the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures, University of Edinburgh , where learning and adapting quickly will be essential. 🤩

I’m grateful for the guidance, structure, and perspective that Calder has brought into the classroom, and for how this course has helped lay a strong foundation for my future studies. 🫶"

We are offering a number of subject specific online info sessions for our Access Programme this February including one dedicated to our Languages and Culture strand.

Sign up and meet the teachers here 🔗https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2/access-events

23/01/2026

Are you interested in a specific strand of our Access Programme? 🎨📖🌍💡

Whether you've narrowed it down or are still deciding, why not come along to one of our free subject specific online info sessions?

We are offering Humanities, Social Science, Art and Design and Languages online events where you can meet the Access Programme teachers and hear all about what you'll be learning!

To join us at one (or more) of these events, sign up on our website 🔗https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2/access-events

University of Edinburgh Access Programme

30/12/2025

Interested in our 2026/27 Access Programme starting in August next year? 🙋

We're offering a number of different online info sessions for each strand/subject area as well as a general info session with our admissions and student support teams.

You'll get to meet the teachers, discover more about the classes and skills you'll learn as well as ask any questions.

To attend these free online sessions, sign up via our website

🔗https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2/access-events

23/12/2025

The University is now closed for winter break ❄️

We’ll respond to your queries as soon as possible after reopening on Monday 5 January 2026.

We wish everyone a joyful festive season and a very Happy New Year!🎄✨

For urgent assistance, University Support Teams are available 24/7 to all current Access students throughout the break.

Contact details can be found here 👇
https://www.ed.ac.uk/news/festive-holiday-period

18/12/2025

Current Access Programme student, Ana, shares more about the student support available on our programme below 👇

Ana says: "I would like to express how deeply supported I have felt throughout my journey on the Access Programme here at The University of Edinburgh.

As a neurodivergent student, having access to the right guidance has made an enormous difference, and my COL Student Support Adviser, Tatiana, has been absolutely essential in this process.

She has guided me step by step, starting from when I joined the Access Programme, and has helped me apply for all the neurodivergent support available, such as extra time in assessments and exams.

About every 2 weeks we have a check in to see how things are going and to wage if I need any additional support. However, I can make an appointment with her whenever I need to, which includes emergency support.

We usually meet in her office, but online meetings are also available, which is very handy.

Beyond academic adjustments, she has always made sure that I am aware of the emotional and practical support the institution provides. From Help & Advice services to the different student societies where you can find community, the University offers a wide range of resources that truly make you feel included and understood.

I have also greatly benefited from the neurodivergent support groups we run every Wednesday—sometimes in person, but usually through Teams. These sessions have been incredibly valuable, giving me a safe space to share experiences, connect with others, and feel seen.

I can honestly say that I have never felt so supported by any institution before. The programme has shown me what it means to study in an environment that cares about your emotional well-being as much as your academic success. Knowing that there are so many kinds of support available has allowed me to pursue my studies in a healthy, balanced, and empowering way - making it great for anyone with additional support needs like myself. 💛"

Learn more on our website🔗 https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2/what-access-programme/student-life-support

11/12/2025

Current Access student Esther tells us why the Humanities & Social Science strand of our Access Programme here at The University of Edinburgh works so well for her.

Esther says:

"I love the flexibility. You get to choose what you want to study, so you can tailor it to your interests and goals. That freedom made it feel like the programme was built around me!

You’re not locked into one path, you can pick the subjects that really spark your curiosity, whether that’s history, sociology, literature, or philosophy. It feels empowering to design your own learning journey!

And because I take my classes in the evening, it fits around work, family and other commitments. Life happens, and sometimes you can’t make it to class. What I love is that the programme is supportive-you’re encouraged to attend regularly, but if you miss a session, you can catch up through online resources, recorded materials, or by connecting with classmates. That way, you never feel left behind.

I’ll be honest—I was nervous at first. But the tutors and classmates are so friendly that it quickly felt welcoming!

What surprised me most was the teaching style. I expected lectures, but what really stood out was the tutorial preparation. You’re asked to engage with materials on our learning online platform before class, and then you come together in person to discuss them. That makes the tutorials so much more dynamic—you’re not just listening, you’re contributing.

And those discussions are where the magic happens because classmates come from such varied backgrounds, you hear opinions you might never have considered. That diversity challenged me to think in new ways and gave me confidence to join in. It wasn’t just about absorbing information, it was about learning how to debate, question, and build on each other’s ideas. That gave me a real taste of what university study is like.

So yeah, that’s been my experience with the Access Programme. Honestly, it’s been such a supportive and eye‑opening start to uni life.

If you’re even thinking about it, I’d say give it a go- you’ll meet great people, learn loads, and feel way more confident about studying 😊"

If you'd like to join our one year, part-time programme next year, you can learn more on our website including how to apply🔗

https://col.ed.ac.uk/our-programmes/access-programme2

University of Edinburgh Access Programme

31/03/2026

23/03/2026

09/03/2026

20/02/2026

05/02/2026

30/01/2026

23/01/2026

30/12/2025

23/12/2025

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11/12/2025

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