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Access Schemes and Pathway Programmes

As part of Newcastle University’s long-standing commitment to widening participation, we also offer a number of programmes that allow eligible applicants to receive support with their application and an alternative offer.

At Newcastle, our aim is to encourage and support the brightest and best students to succeed, regardless of background. We have an extensive programme of aspiration raising and support for students before, during and after their study with us. We have a longstanding commitment to widening participation and equality of opportunity not only in our region, but across the UK. 

Find out more about widening participation.

PARTNERS Programme supported entry route

The PARTNERS Programme is open to all UK students who fulfil widening participation eligibility criteria. If you are eligible and choose to become a PARTNERS student, you will receive an offer which is three grades lower than the typical offer for the course to which you have applied, and a programme of support from application to graduation and beyond.

You must make Newcastle your firm choice (CF) through UCAS when you make your final decisions to take advantage of the PARTNERS offer, which includes the lower grades plus completion of the PARTNERS Summer School. Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply on the PARTNERS Programme website.

Realising Opportunities Programme

Realising Opportunities (RO) students follow a programme which ensures they benefit from increased information, advice and access to some of the country’s leading research intensive universities. RO students applying to Newcastle University receive an offer that is two grades lower than the typical offer. Find out more about the Realising Opportunities Programme.

Pathway Programmes

If you have taken part in Pathways to Law or Pathways to Medicine at Newcastle University, you will be eligible for a reduced offer of up to two grades. You should indicate which programme you took part in on your UCAS application.

How to get a lower offer

Find out about how you can get a lower offer for entry to Newcastle University in our webinar video below.

Our panel of experts cover a range of topics, including the PARTNERS scheme, entry requirements, and the PARTNERS application process, and more.