09:45 Oct 26, 2009 

Again, I agree, but I think that the original context was an undergraduate degree, where in the UK it is the initial selection procedure for first year entrants that matters.

09:35 Oct 26, 2009 

You're right, the systems are slightly different but some UK courses do require a pass to go on to the next stage. On my MA for example, you need 120 credits to be able to progress to the dissertation.

08:37 Oct 26, 2009 

Yes, I agree. My point was that once you are granted entry to a university course in the UK, you are not expected to fail, as the selection procedure is so strict. So there may be no set expression about being allowed to continue from first to second year.

07:49 Oct 26, 2009 

IMO, this is about achieving the pass mark so as to continue the course. It isn't talking about joining the course at a later stage.

07:38 Oct 26, 2009 

In most UK degrees, it is really difficult to gain access to the first year, and access to the second year once you have done the first year is virtually automatic. In some cases, it is possible to gain admission directly to the second or third year, for international students, for example.
"It is possible to enter the second or third year of an undergraduate degree if you have suitable qualifications and/or experience equivalent to the first or second year of study."