Perform at your best by joining BCS
By becoming a BCS Student member at the start of your HEQ study programme, you’ll benefit from a wealth of learning materials, exam insight and support.
For all ambitious technologists, joining the professional body for IT marks an important step in your tech career. BCS membership shows your level of commitment to the industry, connecting you with the global tech community, with professional standards and an ethical code of conduct.
And when you’re studying a BCS higher education qualification, there’s another very good reason to join — our exclusive student package which includes BCS Student membership and HEQ learning materials to support your study, including:
Certificate in IT study guide
Get online access to our latest HEQ publications, Computer and Network Technology (usual price £19.99) Information Systems (usual price £19.99) and Software Development (usual price £19.99), covering the complete level 4 syllabus.
HEQ past papers
There’s no better way to prepare for exams than by reviewing recent test papers. Our library of HEQ past papers covers every module, at every level. Try answering them under ‘test conditions’ by allowing yourself the same amount of time you’ll have in the exam.
You’ll also be able to read the accompanying examiner reports giving you valuable insight into the type of content the examiners are looking for, the common errors made by candidates, and the best way to present your responses to the different types of questions.
Webinar series
These pre-recorded webinars provide an overview of HEQ for you to watch at your own pace. The videos explore the different HEQ levels and modules, available study options, the exam format, as well as guidance on preparing for your assessment. They include advice on structuring your exam answers, and top tips for managing your time effectively during the exam session.
Where can I access the study support package?
When you become a BCS Student member, you’ll receive a login to the MyBCS member area where all your membership resources will be located.
Whether you choose to self-study at home for your HEQ exams or complete your training with a BCS approved training centre, you’ll have 24/7 online access to your study support package so you can brush up your knowledge and prepare for exam success at a time and place that suits your busy schedule.
BCS membership for the career ahead
As well as exclusive HEQ learning and exam support, of course you can also take advantage of the many other services available to our members. From employability tools and networking opportunities to discounts on software and hardware, every membership benefit is designed to help you reach your potential in the tech industry.
A few of our member favourites
Get to know the global BCS community from the comfort of your own PC. Our online forum is a great place to swap study tips and techniques with other HEQ students, exchange knowledge and ideas, and chat about the IT topics of the day. The community is always on hand to help out with any questions or challenges you post to them — you’ll find BCS members share your passion for all things tech, and there’s unrivalled experience and expertise for you to tap into.
With over 1000 participants, you’re sure to find your perfect mentoring match in the BCS career mentoring network. You could link up with an HEQ postgraduate who’ll be able to offer you helpful study advice, or someone working in the kind of position you hope to be in yourself one day who can give you an insight into their role.
Time to get job-ready! Our online Springboard career centre offers everything you need to increase your employability. Interactive tools such as a CV builder and interview simulator help you prepare for the IT recruitment market with confidence. And there’s a vast library of employer videos, personal assessments and tutorials for ensuring your workplace skills and behaviours are as polished as your technical skills.
The learning never stops at BCS, with wide-ranging opportunities to grow your knowledge, develop your competence and stay up to date with the latest thinking in tech. Come along to our quarterly CPD events where members share an online learning experience. Or sign up to one of our many specialist groups: from digital healthcare to green IT, software testing to cybercrime forensics, whatever tech you’re into we’ve got you covered.
As the professional body for IT, we wear many hats: membership organisation, awarding body… also leading publisher of technology and business books. Our publishing portfolio covers the breadth of the industry — over 75 titles including our popular role book series, the bestselling computing glossary, and a number of course textbooks. And the really good news? As a BCS member, you’ll get 25% off every title.
Did you know?
In order to take your HEQ exam, you need to be a BCS member. By becoming a member at the start of your HEQ programme, you can benefit from valuable learning support throughout your studies — and when it comes to booking your exam you’ll already meet the membership requirement, allowing you to remain focused on your revision schedule.
How do I become a BCS member?
It’s a quick online application process: head over to our Student membership page to read more about the benefits then follow the Join now link to get started.
In the application you’re asked to confirm which IT qualification you’re studying — make sure you tick the box to say you’re studying HEQ as this gives you your access to the HEQ student package.
How much does it cost?
To cover your HEQ studies for up to 4 years, the HEQ student package is £40. Alternatively, you could take up the one-year HEQ student package for £30.
