The Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA)

The Cambridge Access Validating Agency (CAVA) designs, validates, quality assures, and awards Access to Higher Education (HE) Diplomas. Access to HE Diplomas provide an opportunity for adults without the relevant formal qualifications to go to university. Like A levels, they are full level 3 qualifications. Around 40,000 students take Access to HE courses each year in the UK, and gain a recognised entry route to university. CAVA is a non-profit membership organisation: a strong and equal partnership between six universities and more than 30 further education providers. Together, we are committed to aiding social mobility by increasing the opportunities for people from all backgrounds to study at university. CAVA has specialised in Access to HE Diplomas for over 20 years. We offer more than 80 validated Access to HE Diplomas which can be shared by our colleges, and we also work with colleges to design bespoke Access to HE provision for their local needs. CAVA is licensed by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) to award the Access to HE Diploma.