Apply through HCA Fast Track

HCA Fast Track Brand

HCA Fast Track is a direct application process open to current HCA students on diploma courses looking at only applying to degree level courses at the college. This page explains how to apply via HCA Fast Track and who is eligible.

About HCA Fast Track


We are excited to launch HCA Fast Track - our new direct application route for current HCA level 3 students.

HCA Fast Track is a shortcut around parts of the lengthy UCAS application process, reducing the hassle and anxiety of applying and allowing students to receive their offer earlier.

Who can apply through HCA Fast Track?


You may be able to apply using HCA Fast Track if you are: 

  • Currently studying on a different course at HCA. You can make an internal application through HCA Fast Track if you are studying on an Extended Diploma or Foundation Diploma, as long as you are only applying to HCA.

> Note: If you are intending to transfer from a degree course at another provider, or you are making a summer application from June 2027, you should use our HCA Direct application route instead.

> Note: Full-time applicants wishing to apply to other institutions as well as HCA should do so online through UCAS.

What are the advantages of applying via HCA Fast Track?

Speed and Certainty

It is a faster process that opens early in the academic year meaning you can know where you're going by mid-November, or make a quick decision in the summer. 

You don't have to deal with UCAS

You make the application directly to us. This means you don't need to fill out Personal Statements for UCAS, or pay UCAS fees.

Get early access to additional support

The sooner you get your offer, the sooner our teams can support you in getting ready to start. Get guidance on student finance, as well as access to visiting lecturers and other support if you are an internal applicant.

Who can apply direct?

You can apply using HCA Fast Track if you are: 

  • Currently studying on a different course at HCA. You can apply internally through HCA Fast Track if you are studying an Extended Diploma or Foundation Diploma, as long as you are only applying to HCA.

> Note: Full-time applicants wishing to apply to other institutions as well as HCA should do so online through UCAS.

If you are not a current student, we have an alternative application route called 'HCA Direct'. This route also minimises paperwork and speeds up the process of getting an offer. You may be eligible to apply if you are:

  • Currently attending Hereford Sixth Form College, Hereford Cathedral School, Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College or the Royal National College for the Blind.
  • Transferring from a degree course at another provider - as long as you are only applying to HCA.
  • Making a Summer Application from June 2027 - as long as you are only applying to HCA.

How do I apply?


HCA applications open in October. 

You can apply by filling out our digital form using the link below. If you have any questions about the application or the process, our Registry team are happy to help. 

> You can contact them with any questions, Monday to Friday, via email - registry@hca.ac.uk.

£500 Internal Progression Bursary

If you are using HCA Fast Track because you are a current or recent student - you may be eligible for a £500 bursary to go towards your student fees.

How does it work?

Step 1 - Fill in an application

If you are eligible to apply through HCA Fast Track, simply complete the online application form.

Step 2 - We review your application

If you are a current student at HCA, your tutor will be the person who reviews your application with our Registry team.

Step 3 - Passed on to the Course Leader

The Course Leader of your chosen course or courses will review the application. Our Registry will then send out any offers to you via email within 48 hours.

Step 4 - Your offer

Depending on your experience, or your application, you may receive and unconditional offer - or a conditional offer that will become unconditional when you receive certain grades in the summer.

Step 5 - Get ready to join us in September

Once you have an offer from us you will start to receive updates from the college, and gain access to additional Applicant Opportunities. This includes invites to Applicant Days, and online Applicant groups, as well as access to visiting lecturers and additional support from degree staff.

Study an Undergraduate course

No two artists are the same. That’s why our degree programmes are designed to allow you to feed your imagination, to move between disciplines and to develop a style and a portfolio that will stand out as uniquely yours.

Discover our undergraduate courses

Degree Open Days

Find out first-hand why students rated HCA among the top institutions in the UK at an Open Day.

Join us for an Open Day

View again

Accessibility settings

Use the options below to change your accessibility settings.

View accessibility policy

Allow Youtube content?

This content is provided by Youtube, we need to ask for your permission before viewing as they may be using cookies or other technology out of our control. You can read more in their policy before accepting. To view please continue below.

Accept