Understanding the Higher National Diploma (HND): Entry Requirements, Benefits, HND vs HNC & More

The Higher National Diploma (HND) is a globally recognised UK Level 5 qualification that offers a faster, more affordable route to a full bachelor’s degree. For Indian students, understanding the HND and its equivalence in India and overseas is important. It’s considered above a regular diploma but just below a full bachelor’s degree. One main benefit of pursuing an HND is that you can complete a bachelor’s degree in just 2 years instead of a traditional 3-year duration.

Continue reading our blog to learn more benefits of the Higher National Diploma, its entry requirements, and cost.

What is a Higher National Diploma (HND)?

A Higher National Diploma (HND) is an academic and vocational qualification that originated in the UK but is now offered in several countries, including India, the UK, UAE, Nigeria, Malaysia, and many more. It is worth 240 credits and can be completed in just 12 months. Upon completing the diploma, you will receive a Level 5 qualification, which is equivalent to the first 2 years of a UK bachelor’s degree. 

HND allows students to proceed to Year 3 for a top-up degree. A top-up degree is a 1-year program that allows students with a Level 5 qualification to earn a full 3-year bachelor’s degree. HND acts as a bridge between secondary education and a full bachelor’s degree, or as a direct entry point to employment in technical and professional fields. 

What Level is a Higher National Diploma?

The level of an HND varies by country, but in the UK, it is classified as a Level 5 qualification on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). This means it is equivalent to the first 2 years of a 3-year bachelor’s degree. In Scotland, the HND is at Level 8 on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework.

For Indian students, understanding the higher national diploma equivalent in India is important. The HND is generally considered to be above a regular diploma but below a full bachelor’s degree. It is a globally recognised qualification for both employment and further study.

Entry Requirements for Higher National Diploma

Entry requirements for an HND can vary depending on the country and the institution. However, the general requirements for Indian students are:

• Completion of 12th grade (Higher Secondary Certificate or HSC) with at least 50% marks in mandatory subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
• A minimum of 50% marks in English is often required.
• Minimum scores in the following English proficiency tests:
  • IELTS: 6.0
  • PTE: 59
  • TOEFL: 79

It’s important to check the specific requirements of the institution or program you are interested in, as these can differ.

Benefits of Pursuing a Higher National Diploma

Choosing an HND offers several advantages, especially for students who want a practical and direct route into their chosen career:

• Shorter Duration: HND can be completed in just 12 months. This allows students to enter the workforce sooner than a traditional three- or four-year degree.
• Pathway to Further Study: Many universities accept HND graduates directly into the final year of a bachelor’s degree, allowing for a “top-up” to a full degree with just one additional year of study.
• Global Recognition: The HND is recognised in many countries, making it easier for graduates to pursue an international career or study opportunities.

How much does an HND cost?

In the UK, a Higher National Diploma (HND) typically costs between £4,000 and £8,000 per year. This roughly translates to 4.5 to 9.5 Lakh per year. For Indian students, The WorldGrad is offering the same HND, accredited by Pearson, for just INR 6.5 Lakh + GST. You can top up to a full bachelor’s degree and study in the UK.

This approach helps save money on tuition and living expenses by allowing students to complete part of their studies from home before transferring to an overseas campus.

Difference between an HNC and HND

The Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND) are related qualifications, but they differ in depth and duration:

Get a Higher National Diploma with The WorldGrad

For Indian students, The WorldGrad offers a smart and affordable way to start your international education journey. Through our UK Advanced Accelerator Program, you can complete your Pearson-accredited HND in India in just 12 months and then progress to a UK or UAE university to get a full bachelor’s degree. We are partnered with 50+ universities across the globe.

Our program costs INR 6.5 Lakh + GST. Merit-based scholarships of INR 1 Lakh are also available.

Benefits of pursuing an HND with The WorldGrad:

Below are some main benefits of pursuing an HND with The WorldGrad:

• Cost savings – By starting your degree from home and earning a Pearson-accredited HND through our program, you cut down on tuition and living costs significantly. With this approach, you save up to INR 65 Lakh on their international education, without compromising on quality.
• Recognised qualification – The HND you earn is not just recognised abroad, it’s also accepted for admission by several Indian universities such as Ajeenkya DY Patil University, Lovely Professional University and Jagannath University and employers. 
• Flexible study option – Upon completing our program, if you choose to stay back, you can choose to directly enter the second year of a bachelor’s program in India, making sure your progress doesn’t pause, wherever you decide to study next.
• Save time – Our Smart Program allows you to complete an HND in just 12 months, therefore saving time and staying ahead of your peers.

Conclusion

The Higher National Diploma (HND) is a valuable qualification for Indian students seeking a qualification with global recognition by institutions and employers. After completing an HND, you can either enter the workforce or top up for a UK bachelor’s degree. With The WorldGrad, the HND is more accessible and affordable.