Fastrack is an intensive programme of study for applicants to Edge Hill University who otherwise would not have the relevant level 3 qualifications to access a degree programme.

The programme consists of one preparation week followed by six weeks of full time study. This is typically four days a week on campus and one day of independent study at home, where you’ll also meet with your tutors online. Due to the fast nature of the programme, there’s a lot of work to get through outside of classroom hours, but you’ll receive a lot of support and guidance to help you. If you’re looking to study on the next Fastrack intake you’ll need to be available for full time study from 1st June – 10th July

Applications are made directly to the University via our direct application form. It’s a dual application for both the Fastrack Programme and the subsequent degree programme. So, you don’t need to submit two separate applications.

You’ll be asked to create an account when you start to apply. Make a note of your username and password so that you can complete the application in more than one sitting if you need to.

If you do forget your username you can either use the forgotten password function or you can contact the Catalyst Helpdesk.

It’s important that you include as much information in your application as you can. You should include any GCSEs that you have at grade 4 (C ) or higher, and any other level 2, 3 or higher qualifications.

Writing Your Personal Statement for Fastrack and Your Degree

Your application is for two things:

1. The Fastrack Programme (your pathway into university)
2. Your chosen degree course

While Fastrack is important, your personal statement should focus mainly on the degree subject. The Fastrack Team wants to see your passion, commitment, and readiness for the subject you plan to study long-term.

Word Count

Your statement should be between 300 and 600 words.
Statements under 300 words do not provide enough context or opportunity for us to assess your suitability and potential. Use this space to give a clear picture of your motivation, skills, and goals.

What We’re Looking For

• Clear Motivation for Your Degree
  Explain why you want to study this subject. What excites you about it? How does it fit with your future plans?
• Evidence of Research and Understanding
  Show that you’ve looked into the subject or career path:
  • For degrees like Teaching, Nursing, Operating Department Practice (ODP), or Social Work, research the skills these roles require (e.g., communication, empathy, teamwork). Reflect on how you use these skills in your daily life—through work, volunteering, or personal experience.
  • For other subjects, demonstrate your interest and any long-term goals connected to the field.
• Transferable Skills
  Highlight skills that will help you succeed at university—such as time management, problem-solving, or working with others. Use examples from work, volunteering, or personal life. Give examples do not just list the skills.

Tips for a Strong Statement

• Plan Before You Write
  Organize your ideas into clear sections:
  • Introduction: Why you want to study this subject
  • Main Body: Your skills, experiences, and research
  • Conclusion: Your future goals and commitment
• Write in Good English
  Grammar and spelling matter. Avoid slang and text-message language.
  Important: Statements written on a phone often have poor grammar and structure. If possible, use a computer or tablet.
• Be Honest and Reflective
  The Fastrack Team wants to understand your motivation and potential—not just a list of achievements.
• Keep Degree as the Main Focus
  Mention Fastrack briefly as your route into university, but most of your statement should show commitment to the degree.

Who is Eligible for the Fastrack Programme?

Fastrack is a great opportunity for adults who want to start their degree journey without traditional qualifications. If you’re motivated and ready to take the next step, here’s what you need to know about eligibility:

• Age: You are aged 21 or over. ( if you are under 21 please contact us for chat about your options)
• Commitment: You are committed to studying for a degree at Edge Hill University.
• Qualifications: You do not already hold the relevant Level 3 qualifications needed to apply for a degree.
• Academic Ability: You can demonstrate the ability to study at degree level, including a good standard of written English.
  • This will be assessed initially through your application.
  • You will also need to verify your English language level by providing one of the following:
    • GCSE English / English Language at grade 4 (previously grade C) or higher
    • Level 2 Literacy certificate
  • If you do not have these, you can take an online informal literacy test after your interview.
• Personal Skills: We also look for personal qualities such as motivation, resilience, and the ability to manage your time effectively. These will be assessed through your application and interview.
• Additional Requirements for Some Degrees: While no formal qualifications are needed for Fastrack, some degree programmes require additional qualifications such as GCSEs before you can progress.
  • For these, we offer GCSE equivalency exams, which are separate from Fastrack.
  • If you need additional GCSEs, we encourage you to start this process as early as possible.

To succeed on the Fastrack Programme, you’ll need to demonstrate a level of English language competency that supports your studies.

We assess this in several ways:

• Personal Statement: Your written application should show a good standard of English.
• Verification of Qualifications: If you already hold one of the following, please attach evidence to your application:
  • GCSE English / English Language at grade 4 (previously grade C) or higher
  • Level 2 Literacy qualification

If you don’t have either of these qualifications, don’t worry! We offer an informal online literacy test after your interview. This is a simple test you can complete at home.

Please note: This test is not a formal qualification, so it will not meet the requirements for degree programmes that require GCSE English as part of their entry criteria. If your chosen degree needs GCSE English, you’ll need to complete an equivalency exam separately.

If your initial application is successful, you’ll be invited to attend an interview.

The format of your interview will depend on the subject area you’re applying for—but don’t worry, we’ll send you clear guidance and resources to help you prepare.

If you’re successful at interview and can demonstrate a satisfactory level of written English, you’ll receive two offers for the next available intake:

• An unconditional offer for the Fastrack Programme
• A conditional offer for your chosen degree

The conditions will always include successful completion of Fastrack. Some subject areas may also have additional requirements, such as GCSEs, DBS checks, or medical clearances.

It’s really important to check these progression requirements as early as possible so you have time to meet them. You can find full details in our Fastrack Progression Routes Guide. If you need extra qualifications, such as GCSEs, we strongly encourage you to start this process now—we offer equivalency exams to help you with this.

Once you’ve been accepted, you’ll receive a link to our applicant website, where you’ll find most of the information you need before starting Fastrack. We’ll also keep you updated by email.