FAQ
FOR
EVERY
GOOD
WORK
WAVERLEY ABBEY COLLEGE
The UK's largest Christian provider of counselling and chaplaincy training.
Enrolment open for 2026/27
Why should I study at Waverley Abbey College?
Choosing the right place to study is important, as is choosing the right programme. A successful qualification needs to be taught by well-qualified tutors with a wealth of experience and in an atmosphere that supports your learning.
Academic excellence
Waverley Abbey College is committed to academic excellence in all that we offer. As we are a small College, we have the opportunity to provide a friendly atmosphere in which to study.
In our latest review by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) we achieved the highest judgments that any college or university can be given. We are therefore confident that our programmes, courses, teaching and campuses can give you the quality of learning that every student deserves.
I don’t have any paper qualifications. Can I still apply?
If you do not hold any paper qualifications, please do not be deterred from applying to any of our short programmes or BA (Hons) Counselling programme. We will consider other types of qualifications, informal learning and life experience in place of these.
Can I still apply if I live abroad?
Short courses and continuous professional development (CPD) courses, online or in person
Yes you can apply. Location is not an eligibility issue for applying for our short courses and CPD, as long as you are able to attend.
Higher Education Counselling courses
On campus (in-person courses) are taught at Waverley Abbey House, Waverley Lane, Farnham, GU9 8EP.
For Higher education courses, 80% attendance is the minimum requirement.
To study any of our higher education in-person programmes validated by Middlesex University, students need to have a British passport or have residency in the UK, or leave to remain status.
For counselling training please be mindful that our training is based on UK legislation and professional practice. If you live in another country you will need to comply with local regulations.
Distance education (online courses) lectures are taught on Zoom, so you would need a suitable wifi connection, a computer, and a quiet place to join.
To study any of the online Higher Education or contemporary courses, students may apply from outside of the UK, but please bear in mind the time differences when considering the lecture schedule.
Am I old enough to apply?
Applicants are welcome to apply from the age of 18, but will need to have relevant life experience and be able to meet the emotional intelligence required of our programmes. Please contact us if you would like to discuss this further.
Can I continue to work alongside my study?
Yes, with good time management and ability to prioritise, you can do it!
Does Waverley Abbey College offer any form of financial help?
The college has a bursary scheme, applications can be made during the summer and at the beginning of courses.
Please refer to the Admissions section on Finance for information to help you
finance your programme.