UK-regulated
Every ATHE diploma is regulated by Ofqual
Start Your Degree at KCIC
ATHE Diplomas at Levels 3, 4 and 5. Ofqual-regulated. Transfer to university.
Why ATHE at KCIC?
Flexible study
Assignment-based learning, no final exams
Faster degree
Up to 2 years of credit towards a bachelor's
Who's behind your child's qualification?
Ofqual
The UK's independent qualifications regulator. Sets the rules. Checks standards.
ATHE
A UK awarding body, regulated by Ofqual since 2011. Designs the diploma. Awards the certificate.
KCIC
An ATHE-approved centre. Teaches and supports your child.
Ofqual checks ATHE. ATHE checks KCIC.
ATHE stands for Awards for Training and Higher Education.
What does Ofqual do?
Ofqual is set up by the UK Parliament. It keeps qualifications fair, reliable and trusted.
- Approves awarding bodies like ATHE
- Sets strict quality rules
- Gives every qualification an official level and credit value
- Lists qualifications on a public register
- Acts if standards slip
Your ATHE pathway
ATHE Level 3 Diploma
Equal to A levels
ATHE Level 4 Extended Diploma
120 credits, equal to Year 1 of a bachelor's degree (UK or Australia)
ATHE Level 5 Extended Diploma
120 credits, equal to Year 2 of a bachelor's degree
How students learn: Assignments and projects. No final exams.
Grades: Pass, Merit, Distinction
From KCIC to university
- Study at KCIC. Complete your Level 4 and Level 5 Extended Diplomas.
- Earn 240 credits. 120 credits at each level.
- Join a top-up degree. Enter the final year of a bachelor's.
- Graduate. Full bachelor's degree from the university. Less time. Lower cost.
| After KCIC | Join university at | Time to degree |
|---|---|---|
| Level 3 Diploma | Year 1 | 3 to 4 years |
| Level 4 (120 credits) | Year 2 | About 2 years |
| Level 4 + 5 (240 credits) | Final year (top-up) | About 1 year |
What universities usually ask for
- A related subject
- Full credits at each level
- English test (e.g. IELTS), if needed
Progression universities
Each university makes its own credit transfer decision.
Check it yourself
- Go to register.ofqual.gov.uk
- Search the qualification name or number
- Look for ATHE Ltd as the awarding body
Ask us for any course number.
Visit Ofqual RegisterQuick answers
What is ATHE?
A UK awarding body regulated by Ofqual since 2011.
What is Ofqual?
The UK's independent qualifications regulator, accountable to Parliament.
Does Ofqual approve KCIC?
No. Ofqual regulates ATHE. ATHE approves KCIC.
Is an ATHE diploma a degree?
No. It earns credits that count towards a degree.
Can my child finish a degree in 1 year after Level 5?
Often, yes, through a top-up degree.
What if my child stops after Level 4 or 5?
They still hold a recognised UK qualification.
Talk to us
Let's plan your child's pathway, from diploma to a full degree.
admission@cornerstone.edu.inATHE qualifications are awarded by ATHE Ltd and regulated by Ofqual. An ATHE diploma is not a degree. Universities make all credit transfer decisions. KCIC is an independent ATHE-approved centre, not part of ATHE or Ofqual.