If you’re applying to university in the UK, you’ve probably come across UCAS points, also known as UCAS Tariff points.
But what exactly are UCAS points, how do they work, and what happens if you don’t quite have enough for the university course you want to study?
The good news is that UCAS points aren’t only available through A Levels. A range of recognised Level 3 qualifications can also carry UCAS Tariff points, which may give you another way to build your total.
In fact, our eligible Level 3 qualifications provide 8 UCAS Tariff points. So, if you’re a few points short of the entry requirements for a course you’re interested in, completing an additional Level 3 qualification could be worth considering.
What Are UCAS Points?
UCAS Tariff points are a way of converting certain qualifications and grades into a numerical value.
Universities, colleges and other higher education providers can use these points when setting entry requirements for their courses.
For example, instead of asking applicants for specific A Level grades, a course may specify that applicants need to achieve a certain number of UCAS Tariff points.
This can make it easier to compare and combine different eligible qualifications when applying for higher education.
According to UCAS, not every qualification has a Tariff value, and universities do not have to use Tariff points when setting their entry requirements.
How Do UCAS Points Work?
Different qualifications can be worth different numbers of UCAS points depending on factors including the qualification’s size and the grade achieved.
UCAS uses the qualification’s size and grading structure when determining its Tariff value.
You can check how many points your existing qualifications are worth using the official UCAS Tariff Points Calculator.
This means there isn’t a simple rule that says every Level 3 qualification is worth the same number of points.
For example, A Levels, T Levels and eligible vocational qualifications can all contribute towards the UCAS Tariff, but the number of points awarded can vary considerably.
Are UCAS Points the Same as A Level Grades?
No. An A Level is a qualification, whereas UCAS Tariff points are a numerical value assigned to qualifications and grades that are included within the Tariff.
This distinction is important because A Levels aren’t the only way to earn UCAS points.
Depending on what you have studied, you may be able to combine points from different eligible qualifications when applying for a university course.
What Happens If I Don’t Have Enough UCAS Points?
This is where things can get interesting.
Imagine you’ve found the university course you want to study and have checked the entry requirements. You calculate the points from your existing qualifications and discover you’re just short of the required total.
It can be frustrating, particularly when you’re only missing a relatively small number of points.
However, depending on the university and its entry requirements, completing an additional eligible Level 3 qualification could potentially help increase your UCAS Tariff total.
Need an Extra 8 UCAS Points?
Our eligible Level 3 qualifications provide 8 UCAS Tariff points.
This can make them particularly interesting to learners who want to gain an additional recognised qualification while potentially adding to their UCAS points total.
For example:
Your current qualifications: 112 UCAS points
Additional Level 3 qualification: 8 UCAS points
Potential new total: 120 UCAS points
If the course you’re interested in asks for 120 points, those additional 8 points could make a meaningful difference.
However, you should always check with the university or higher education provider before enrolling solely for the purpose of gaining additional UCAS points.
Universities set their own entry requirements and are not required to accept a qualification simply because it carries UCAS Tariff points. Some courses may also require specific qualifications or subjects rather than simply a total number of points.
Examples of Eligible Qualifications for Additional Points
We offer three Level 3 qualifications that can be completed in as little as a week, without requiring work or real-world experience. These qualifications will also provide a foundation of additional knowledge that can be used in your future career in any sector.
Level 3 Award in Coaching an Mentoring (RQF)
Understand the concept of coaching and mentoring to support the development of individuals, teams and organisations. Get practical tools and knowledge to act as a coach or mentor. View course details here.
(Minimum age to enrol: 18 years)
Level 3 Award in Education and Training (RQF)
A nationally recognised train-the-trainer and teaching qualification, with flexible study options including self-study, online or classroom-based courses. View course details here.
(Minimum age to enrol: 19 years)
Level 3 Award in Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment (RQF)
Designed to provide the knowledge and understanding of assessment, but have no need to actively practice as an assessor, or have no access to live learners to assess. View course details here.
(Minimum age to enrol: 19 years)
Finding out you’re a few UCAS points short doesn’t necessarily mean the end of your plans.
Depending on the entry requirements of your chosen university, completing an additional eligible Level 3 qualification may provide another route to increasing your Tariff total.
