What Qualifications Do You Need To Become a midwife?

A Levels for Midwives

If you’re thinking about a career in midwifery, understanding exactly what qualifications you need is the natural first step, and A-levels are one of the main routes universities look for. This guide walks through the process in simple, practical terms, from working out your options to getting your application together.

Step One: Understand That A-Levels Aren’t the Only Route

The first step is understanding that A-levels are not the only way in. Many adult learners choose the diploma needed for midwife study instead, which is a Level 3 qualification designed specifically for those returning to education without A-levels, and is widely accepted by universities as an equal alternative.

Step Two: Research the Diploma Route Properly

If that route sounds like a better fit, it is worth looking into the Access to HE diploma for midwife option properly, including how it is assessed and how long it typically takes, usually around a year of focused study, so you know exactly what you are signing up for.

Step Three: Check Your Entry-Level Starting Point

If you are just starting to explore your options more generally, it is worth reviewing midwife entry-level qualifications before committing to a specific course, so you have a clear picture of where you currently stand and what your next step should realistically be.

Step Four: Confirm the Specific A-Levels Required

If A-levels are still the route you want to take, checking the specific A Levels for midwives that your target universities ask for is an important early step, since requirements can vary between institutions and it is best to know this before choosing your subjects.

Step Five: Make Sure Your GCSEs Are in Order

Whichever direction you take, your GCSEs form the foundation underneath it all. Most universities and course providers expect a grade 4 or above in maths and English, so it is worth checking the GCSEs for midwifes requirement in advance if you are unsure whether you currently meet this standard.

Step Six: Review Official University Guidance

Once you have a clearer sense of your route, it is worth spending time on official guidance too. The UCAS nursing subject guide lays out what universities across the country generally expect from nursing and midwifery applicants, and is a genuinely useful resource for comparing courses properly.

Step Seven: Consider Nursing as a Related Field

It is also worth looking a little wider than midwifery alone. General nursing qualifications overlap with midwifery in a number of ways, and understanding both fields can help you make a more informed decision if your interests shift as you progress through your research.

At Functional Skills Maths Level 2, we know how important a solid foundation in core subjects is before taking on further study, and we always recommend making sure your maths and English are secure before committing to the next stage of your qualification journey.

Getting into midwifery through A-levels is a well established, widely recognised route, and with the right preparation and a clear understanding of what your target universities expect, it is a genuinely achievable goal to work towards.

A Levels for Midwives FAQs

Do all universities ask for the same A-levels for midwifery?

No. Requirements can vary between institutions, so it is important to check the specific subjects and grades each university expects before applying.

Is there an alternative if I don’t want to take A-levels?

Yes. An Access to HE Diploma is a widely recognised alternative route, specifically designed for adult learners returning to education.

What GCSE grades do I need before starting A-levels for this pathway?

Most universities and providers expect a grade 4 or above in GCSE maths and English as a baseline requirement.

Should I also look into nursing qualifications?

It can be helpful, since midwifery and nursing share a number of overlapping entry requirements, which may help you decide which path is the better fit for you.

Written by

Pass Functional Skills Team

We help thousands of students each year with revision, courses and online exams.