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Making an Application

Applying to College

We’re excited that you're considering joining Oaklands College and look forward to welcoming you on campus soon. The simplest way to apply is through our website—just find the course you're interested in and click the 'Apply Now' button to begin.

Apply Now

STEP 1: APPLY ONLINE

Applying online is simple. Find your chosen course, click the green 'Apply Now' button next to the course details, and complete the application form. We'll then process your application.

You can apply for multiple courses in one application, so if you're undecided, feel free to explore your options and make your final choice later.

STEP 2: RECEIVE AN OFFER

Our dedicated admissions team ensures that every student applying to Oaklands College receives an offer, confirming your acceptance at the college.

Conditional offers depend on meeting the required grades for your chosen course. You can check these entry requirements on the course information page or in our 2024/25 Full and Part-Time Course Guide. If you don’t meet the required grades, don’t worry—our team will help find a course that's right for you at Oaklands.

STEP 3: ACCEPT YOUR PLACE OR INVITATION TO MEET A TUTOR

Make sure to accept your place promptly to secure your spot on your chosen course. This will also enable us to invite you to course-specific taster sessions and information evenings.

STEP 4: RECEIVE YOUR GRADES

GCSE results are normally released every August. Once you have your results, be sure to upload them to your Oaklands account. If you don't meet the required grades, don't worry—we’ll ensure you have a place on a course that suits you at Oaklands.

STEP 5: ENROL

You’ll be invited to one of our advice and enrolment days at the end of August. During this session, our Student Support team will provide you with your student ID, course details, timetable, and complete your enrolment as an Oaklands College student!

STEP 6: ATTEND YOUR INDUCTION

During your induction, you’ll receive your final timetable, meet your classmates, and get an overview of what to expect in your first term at Oaklands College.

We look forward to welcoming you!

Student FAQs

Below is a full list of the most popular questions we are asked by potential and current students.

Applying online is simple. Start by searching for your chosen course or browsing through the course pages. Each department provides a breakdown of courses by level and type—just click on the option that suits you best.

You'll find an 'Apply Now' button next to the course details, allowing us to process your application online.

Keep in mind, you can apply for more than one course in the same application, giving you flexibility to decide later.

If online application isn't an option for you, you can also apply by post using the form found at the back of our printed Course Guide, or by downloading the 2024-25 A4 Portrait Application Form. Mail your completed application to Oaklands College, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0JA.

If you're applying for a full-time course, a reference is required. For applicants under 19, this should come from your current or most recent school. If you're over 19 or have been out of education for two years, your reference can be from your last school or an employer.

Student References Form

Our admissions team ensures that all applicants to Oaklands College receive a conditional offer, confirming their place.

Conditional offers require meeting specific grade criteria, which can be found on the course page or in our 2024/25 Course Guide. If you don’t meet the grades, don’t worry—we'll ensure you still have a place.

For example, a Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design requires four GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including English, Maths, and an art-based subject or equivalent. If you don’t meet the required grades, you can resit Maths and English or start at Level 1 or 2 and progress to Level 3 after a year.

You'll also be invited to a Course Information Evening before your September 2024 start, where you can meet tutors, learn more, and ask questions.

We encourage attendance to ensure you're prepared, and we're dedicated to securing a place for every student this September.

Choosing the right study programme can be overwhelming, but we're here to provide you with all the information, support, and advice you need to make the best decision for yourself.

There are many resources available to help you. A great starting point is our Student Advice team at Oaklands, who can discuss your options with you. They offer independent advice tailored to your unique circumstances and interests. You can reach them by emailing info@oaklands.ac.uk or calling 01727 737000.

If you're currently in school, consider speaking with your Connexions Personal Adviser, who can also provide one-on-one guidance for your next steps.

For any questions, our Contact Centre is here to help. You can reach them at 01727 737000 or via email at info@oaklands.ac.uk. During office hours, you can also use the Live Chat feature on our website.

If you haven't had permanent residency in the UK or EU for three years, please get in touch with our International Office at +44 (0) 1727 737000.

Please be aware that the availability of courses may change based on interest levels and funding regulations.

The College retains the right to modify or withdraw courses as needed and will make every effort to inform you promptly of any changes that may impact your application.

See below for an overview of our standard entry requirements.

Please note that individual T Level course entry requirements vary by subject. Please refer to the relevant subject page on the website for the specific entry requirements for each T Level.

  • Entry Level: No formal qualifications needed.
  • Level 1: At least 3 GCSEs at grades 3-1, of which one
    should be English or maths, or completion
    of an entry level programme. 
  • Level 2: At least 4 GCSEs at grades 3 or above, of
    which one should be English or maths at
    grade 4 or above, or the completion of a
    Level 1 qualification. 
  • Level 3: At least 4 GCSEs at grades 4 or above,
    including maths and English, or a full Level 2
    qualification with grades 4 or above in English
    and maths.
  • T Levels: At least 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths. Please check specific T Level course pages for further details.
  • A Levels: At least 6 GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English and maths, plus a grade 6 in subjects being studied at A Level.

For more answers to common questions, feel free to check out our Parent FAQs.

Parent FAQs

Can't find the answer you’re looking for? Email us at info@oaklands.ac.uk or call 01727 737000. 

College offers a safe, adult learning environment with a variety of academic and vocational courses that prepare students for higher education or employment.

Our dedicated pastoral team provides extensive support for issues like finances, attendance, and personal relationships, surpassing what many other institutions offer.

Yes, we provide learning support for students with difficulties or disabilities, along with Student Advisers to address any concerns.

Students aged 16–18 and EU residents for the last three years are exempt from tuition fees. Some materials may incur charges.

Full-time attendance should not impact your Child Benefit or Family Tax Credit, but ensure the appropriate authorities are notified.

We offer a subsidised Uno bus service. Alternatives include the Hertfordshire SaverCard for half-price bus fares and discounted rail travel options.

Our instructors are experienced vocational specialists who bring real industry knowledge to their teaching.

Each student has a Personal Tutor who regularly checks in on their development. Parents can access progress updates through the Parent Portal.

Yes, course changes are generally possible within the first few weeks.

Yes, though fees will apply.

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