Many of the courses offered by colleges lead to vocational qualifications, such as T levels, and BTEC or City and Guilds awards, certificates and diplomas. Some colleges also offer academic qualifications such as GCSEs and A levels and even higher education qualifications.

Courses are offered at different levels, from entry level up to level 3 (equivalent to A levels and T levels), so there will be a level of course to suit you. The level of course you do, depends on the GCSE grades you get. If you pass the level you are doing, it is possible to move up to the next level. Many students who start off doing a lower-level course go on to higher level courses or into an apprenticeship or employment.

Each college is different in terms of the courses it offers, so check what is available. If your local FE college doesn't offer the subject you want to study, there's likey to be another college within travelling distance that does offer it, so think about looking further afield. 

Further education colleges are usually much larger than sixth forms. They have thousands of full and part-time students attending. Many colleges have more than one study centre, sometimes in different towns.

You apply directly to a college, most have an online application form on their website that you have to fill in. Starting in the autumn term, colleges have open events where you can go and look around before you apply. Check college websites for details.