How to apply: Foundation diploma
Everything you need to know to apply for a Foundation diploma at HCA
Apply for 2025
Applying with us
Our step-by-step guide
You can apply now by following these simple steps:
- Go to the Foundation course page.
- Click or tap the Apply Now button.
- Follow the instruction on the online application portal to register and start your application.
If you are unable to access the online application form, please contact the Registry Department on 01432 845304 or email registry@hca.ac.uk.
Once you have completed the online application form we will write to you and invite you to attend a face-to-face interview
We will also send you some guidance to help you prepare - but the main aim of your interview is to give us the chance to get to know you, and for you to get a feel for the course team.
We try to schedule interviews in blocks to give you a chance to meet some of the other students who will be starting the course with you.
If you want a full campus tour before or after your interview, that can be arranged through our Outreach team.
- One A-Level/A2 or Extended Diploma, preferably in a creative subject.
Five GCSEs including English and Maths at grade 4/C or above.
Our Foundation and Portfolio courses attract students from a wide range of backgrounds, and with a range of qualifications. If you have any questions about your qualifications and whether they fit, please contact our Registry team on 01432 273359 or email registry@hca.ac.uk
Visit us
While you will get a chance to see the campus at your interview, Open Evenings are a great way of finding out more about the course, and meetings some of the students you will be joining with. If you just want to explore the campus and workshops, course teams may be able to arrange a personal campus tour. Email course lead Darren Williams (D.Williams@hca.ac.uk) for availability.
Read moreOther information
A Foundation diploma is an excellent way of building your portfolio and broadening your experience as an artist or designers. For many students this process really shapes what and where they decide to study next.
A Foundation diploma is also a great way of adding to your UCAS points. A Distinction grade will give you 112 UCAS points, a Merit 96 and a Pass 80 - if you are considering applying to Higher Education after the course
You can find more information on the Fees and Funding page, however as long as you are under-19 at the time you start your Foundation course, you do not have to pay tuition fees if you are a UK citizen.
There are some small course costs to cover materials and offsite visits, and those will be outlined ahead of the course.
As a Foundation student at HCA, you will benefit from being based at a degree-level institution. You will have full access to the degree campus workshops and digital studios, as well being part of occasional workshops or masterclasses taught by degree staff.
If you want to continue on to study your degree at HCA, you will able apply directly and bypass the UCAS application process. You will also be eligible for a £500 Internal Progression bursary.
Start your application now
You can get your application started online today. Use the button below to complete a five-minute online registration process, and start your application now.
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Undergraduate degree
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Postgraduate degree
Everything you need to know to apply for a Post-16 course at HCA
Post-16 courses
Everything you need to know to apply for a Post-16 course at HCA
Portfolio course
Everything you need to know to apply for a Post-16 course at HCA