What are UCAS points?

Students across the UK applying for university often encounter a familiar question: “How many UCAS points do I need?”

Behind that question lies the UCAS Tariff system, a framework that converts diverse qualifications into a common points currency to help universities compare candidates fairly.

Understanding how the Tariff works can empower you to make informed subject choices, explore alternative qualifications and optimise your offers. Whether you’re aiming for straight As or combining BTECs and Highers, in this article, you’ll find clarity on how UCAS points shape conditional offers and when other measures might take precedence.

What is the UCAS Tariff?

Introduced in 2001, the UCAS Tariff was born out of a need to rationalise entry requirements across a widening range of post-16 qualifications. Prior to its launch, universities traditionally focused on A-level grades alone, but the growing importance of vocational awards (such as BTECs), the re-emergence of AS-levels and the advent of new Diploma schemes challenged that singular approach.

The Tariff provided a transparent, points-based system. Each qualification and grade translates into a numeric score, streamlining comparisons and promoting breadth in students’ study portfolios. Its underlying purpose is to encourage diverse learning pathways and support institutions in setting coherent entry requirements.

Universities and colleges use Tariff points to set the threshold for conditional offers – students need to meet or exceed a specified points total, rather than target particular grade combinations. This flexibility enables learners to explore subjects beyond traditional A-levels, without penalising them for pursuing vocational or technical awards. For example, a university might ask for 120 UCAS points, which could be achieved through three A-levels at grade C (each 48 points) or a combination of two BTEC Level 3 Extended Diplomas and an A-level.

By putting different qualifications on the same scale, the Tariff helps universities compare applicants fairly and recognise both academic and applied routes. It supports a more balanced approach to admissions that reflects the breadth of learning now offered across the UK.

The Tariff also underpins some post-application processes, such as clearing and adjustment, guiding applicants and institutions through choices when demand fluctuates.

Not every university uses Tariff points exclusively – some still specify precise grades. In any case, the points remain a central reference, shaping both student decision-making and institutional recruitment strategies.

How UCAS points are calculated (with A-Level examples)

The UCAS Tariff works by assigning a fixed number of points to each A-level grade. Under the system introduced in 2017, grades run from A to E, with A carrying 56 points and E carrying 16. This scale allows different qualifications to be compared on the same framework and helps universities express entry requirements in a consistent way.

• A* = 56 points
• A = 48 points
• B = 40 points
• C = 32 points
• D = 24 points
• E = 16 points
  

Here’s a straightforward example: a student achieving A, B and C at A-level would accrue 48 + 40 + 32 = 120 UCAS points.

Universities often state offers in terms of both grade combinations and point totals – so “ABB (112 points)” is equivalent to “112 UCAS points”.

AS-levels – once standalone qualifications – carry lower weight, with A = 20 points down to E = 6 points. In practice, many institutions assign minimal Tariff value to AS results or exclude them from Tariff-based offers entirely, focusing instead on full A-levels or vocational equivalents.

Knowing how A-level grades translate into UCAS points helps students think realistically about their subject choices and the results they are aiming for. Most stick to three subjects, as strong grades there usually provide the best route to a higher points total. Others add an AS or a fourth A-level to give themselves a bit of flexibility.

Bear in mind that universities might weigh only the best three or four qualifications – so it’s crucial to check every individual policy.

Scottish highers, BTECs and other qualifications on the Tariff

The UCAS Tariff also encompasses a range of Level 3 qualifications.

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers sit naturally alongside A levels on the Tariff, making it straightforward for Scottish applicants to present their results to universities across the UK.

Scottish Highers:

• A = 33 points
• B = 27 points
• C = 21 points
• D = 15 points
• E = 9 points

Advanced Highers:

• A = 56 points
• B = 48 points
• C = 40 points
• D = 32 points

T Levels also feature on the Tariff. These two-year technical qualifications – designed as a full-time alternative to three A levels – include substantial industry placements and a final overall grade. UCAS assigns 168 points for a T-Level Distinction*, 144 for a Distinction and 120 for a Merit. Because T Levels are relatively new, universities may differ in how they consider them for entry, so applicants should check individual course requirements. Not all institutions accept T Levels.

Vocational qualifications are also included. BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas (the three-A-level equivalent) can award up to 168 points for DDD*, while smaller BTEC Nationals scale down accordingly. For example, you would be awarded D* = 28, D = 24 and P = 16 for a single-A-level-sized BTEC National Certificate.

Higher National qualifications appear on the Tariff too: an HNC at Distinction is worth 64 points, while an HND at Distinction carries 112 points, reflecting their size and level.

Other recognised qualifications include Cambridge Pre-U, AS levels and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which can add up to 28 points for an A*. This range means students can build a mixed profile – for example, combining A levels with an EPQ or adding a vocational qualification alongside academic ones.

Because each university sets its own rules on how different qualifications can be combined, applicants should always check how a course treats Tariff points and whether any limits apply to vocational elements.

Tariff points tables – understanding the charts

Navigating Tariff tables can feel daunting at first glance, but they follow a consistent structure.

UCAS publishes comprehensive Tariff tables annually, listing every qualification alongside grade-by-grade points. Tables are organised by qualification type and level: A-levels, T-Levels, BTECs, Scottish awards, Core Maths, EPQ and more. Each entry specifies the qualification title, unit size (equivalence to A-levels) and point allocation per grade.

To interpret a Tariff table:

1. Identify your qualification category (e.g., “GCE A-level and AS” or “BTEC Nationals”).
2. Locate the specific award – for instance, “BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma”.
3. Read across to match the grade achieved (DDD* or A, B, C) with the corresponding points.
   

Where qualifications have multiple components (such as mixed BTEC Diplomas), UCAS indicates if points are combined across units or awarded per unit.

Once you know how to read the tables, it becomes much easier to calculate point totals and see straight away whether a set of grades meets a university’s entry expectations.

Comparing qualifications – which route suits you best?

Choosing between A-levels, vocational diplomas and alternatives typically depends on your personal strengths, career aspirations and learning style.

A-levels are the traditional academic path, well-suited to students who thrive in essay-based, theoretical study. In contrast, BTECs and Cambridge Technicals emphasise coursework, practical application and continuous assessment – a good fit for learners who prefer project-based work over formal examinations.

Consider the following when choosing your qualifications:

• Subject relevance – some degree programmes favour specific subjects. For example, Engineering often requires Maths and Physics at A-level, whereas Media Studies degrees may accept a combination of BTEC Media and A-level English.
• Workload and assessment style – A-levels typically involve end-of-year exams. To achieve a good grade, you’ll need to put in considerable work and revision. BTECs, on the other hand, spread assessment across assignments, reducing exam pressure but requiring consistent performance.
• Tariff efficiency – how you combine qualifications affects your Tariff total. Large vocational diplomas can add up quickly, though some universities cap the number of BTEC points they accept. Adding an EPQ alongside three A-levels can also lift your overall points while highlighting your independent research skills.
  

Adjusting for resits and AS-Level combinations

There are many reasons why a student might not achieve the grade they are aiming for on the first attempt. Most universities are comfortable with one or two resits, especially if the improvement is clear, but repeated attempts across multiple subjects can raise questions about exam resilience. Focused resitting is usually the most effective strategy.

Resits can strengthen an application because UCAS replaces the original grade with the new one. A higher resit grade, therefore, leads to a direct points increase – for example, moving from a D (24 points) to a B (40 points) adds 16 points. 

AS-levels sit alongside this as another way to supplement your UCAS points total. They carry fewer points than full A-levels (A = 20 down to E = 6), but they can still provide a helpful boost. An AS at B, for instance, adds 16 points and can lift a student closer to an offer requirement.

Some universities include AS points when calculating Tariff totals, while others only consider full A-levels and equivalent Level 3 qualifications, so you should always check an institution’s policy before relying on AS contributions.

Using UCAS points in conditional offers

A conditional offer is a university’s way of saying, “You have a place – as long as you meet these final requirements.” For most applicants, those conditions relate to A-level grades, BTEC outcomes or a minimum number of UCAS points achieved by the end of Year 13. If you meet those conditions, the offer becomes unconditional, and your place is secured.

Offers may read in one of three broad formats:

• Grade-based (e.g., “BBB at A-level”)
• Point-based (e.g., “112 UCAS Tariff points”)
• Hybrid (e.g., “112 points including a B in Mathematics”)
  

Point-based offers give you flexibility. You can mix and match qualifications to meet the total. For example, if you’re offered 120 points, you could fulfil this with ABB at A-level (points total 48 + 40 + 40) or with ABC plus an EPQ at B (32 + 40 + 32 + 24). Hybrid offers ensure subject prerequisites are still honoured, safeguarding academic readiness in key areas.

When an offer uses Tariff points, it’s important to check which qualifications your chosen university will actually count. Some providers set limits – for example, only using a maximum of four A-level/AS qualifications or restricting the contribution from vocational awards. Knowing these rules early prevents you from relying on points that won’t be included in the final calculation.

Conditional offers also shape what happens later in the cycle. If you exceed your conditions, you may explore moving to a more competitive course. If you miss your grades by a small margin, you might look at clearing to secure an alternative place.

Tips for maximising your points strategy

When you have a proactive approach to UCAS points, it can strengthen your application and open doors to competitive courses. Here are some helpful tips:

• Check Tariff policies early – look at admissions pages and prospectuses to see whether universities accept EPQ, BTEC, T-Level or Core Maths points, and whether they cap the number of qualifications they count.

• Choose subjects that suit your strengths – balancing ambition with manageability helps you secure higher grades, which often have the biggest impact on your Tariff total.
• Add a complementary qualification – an EPQ or Core Maths can add 24–28 points with a relatively small workload. If you’re creative, you might consider taking UAL Level 3 Art and Design or Cambridge Technicals, which also carry strong Tariff values.
• Use an AS level as a buffer – taking an AS in a fourth subject can provide up to 20 extra points without the commitment of a full A-level.
• Be selective with resits – focus on subjects where a realistic grade increase will meaningfully raise your total; for example, moving from a C (32) to a B (40) gains eight points.
• Monitor predicted grades and revise strategically – target the improvements that move you closer to offer ranges.
• Keep track of offers as they change – different universities may adjust requirements through the cycle, and conditional versus unconditional routes may influence the mix of qualifications you rely on.

Limitations and alternatives to the Tariff system

The UCAS Tariff has some limitations.

Not all universities rely on Tariff points. Some prefer traditional grade thresholds or carrying out holistic assessments of personal statements, references and portfolios.

Additionally, the Tariff does not capture the full depth of a student’s achievements. There are often other factors worth considering beyond the quantitative points count. These include the rigour of a particular course, co-curricular activities, volunteering, peer mentoring and leadership roles. Moreover, lower-Tariff qualifications (such as some shorter Level 3 certificates) may be excluded altogether, narrowing options for certain learners.

Alternatives to the Tariff include:

• Contextual offers – universities may adjust requirements based on an applicant’s socioeconomic background or school performance.
• Foundation years – these provide an entry route for those lacking traditional qualifications.
• Apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships – let you combine paid work and study without relying on Tariff points.
• Access to Higher Education Diplomas – these are for mature students or those returning to education. Universities assign Tariff equivalence based on module grades.

Summing up

Ultimately, the UCAS Tariff is just one part of the admissions picture. Universities also look at subject choices, personal statements, references and wider experience when deciding who is a good fit for a course.

Tariff points matter, but they work best when students see them as one element alongside their own strengths, interests and long-term goals.