What is YASS?

Our Young Applicants in Schools Scheme (YASS) gives S6 students in Scotland the unique opportunity to study a range of university level courses in school alongside their other studies.

YASS is designed to bridge the gap between school and university, college or employment and helps motivated students stand out from the crowd.

It encourages independent learning and builds confidence. Taking part in YASS develops key skills like time management and using an online study environment.

Registration for YASS modules is organised through the school, although students deal directly with The OU when it comes to their course work and assessment.

Over 12,200 young people from 326 schools have taken Open University modules through YASS. Meet some of our YASS students.

The map below shows the number of schools participating in YASS by Scottish Parliament region in 2022/23.

More choice, more options

• The downloadable 2024/25 interactive YASS Guide (.pdf) includes a list of courses that can be studied.
• We offer a wide range of subject choices, in areas including Science, Engineering, Business Studies, IT and Computing, Arts, Mathematics, Health and Social Care, Sport and Exercise, and Languages.
• Each course offered through YASS is Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Level 7, equivalent to first year university level.
• Courses can last from five to nine months and are clearly structured with timetables and deadlines.
• Studying with The OU gives you the flexibility to decide when and where you study each week.
• Shorter courses normally require up to eight hours of study a week, while a longer one can require up to 14 hours a week.

From small beginnings…

Since it was first developed in partnership with Highland Council in 2007/08, YASS has grown substantially.

Funding for YASS courses in Scotland

YASS receives support from the Scottish Funding Council (SFC). This allows us to offer fully-funded places for pupils from local authority schools undertaking 10 and 30 credit modules.

Independent schools should contact the YASS team to discuss payment methods.