Applying to universities in the UK can be quite a task, especially if you don’t understand the UCAS Tariff system. If you understand how the system works, you can streamline your application process and improve your chances of acceptance.
The UCAS points determine the value of your qualifications when you apply to a university. The system assigns a numeric value to all your educational diplomas and degrees, including A-levels, BTECs and even international degrees and diplomas, to give you a final score.
That’s where this detailed guide comes in. Let’s understand how the system works and how you can improve your UCAS points to boost your university application.
What is the UCAS Tariff?
The UK university system uses the UCAS Tariff or UCAS points system as a benchmark for the admission procedure. In essence, it can be seen as a rating system that attributes a number to your academic credentials. When you apply to a university, these points are used to determine whether you are eligible to sit for a particular course.
The system converts all educational qualifications, whether A-levels, degrees or diplomas, to numbers. The target is to create a framework to ensure that everyone is treated equally.
Your UCAS tariff points are gained based on every qualification you have and are dependent on each one’s level and grade.
For example, you will be at an advantage if you have achieved higher A-level grades, as you will add more points to your application.
Why Do UCAS Points Matter?
The UCAS tariff points are used to highlight the achievements of students irrespective of the type of their qualifications when applying to the university for higher education. They matter for several reasons:
University Admissions
UCAS points are a primary factor that universities and colleges consider while accepting your application.
Nearly all institutes of higher education put in entry points, which are measured in UCAS points. Thus, you must have a certain number of points to be considered. This system allows universities to grade applicants with diverse qualifications on a similar scale.
Flexibility in Qualifications
UCAS tariff points allow students to accumulate them in various ways. You get points for every qualification you have, including A-levels, BTECs, and the International Baccalaureate.
It is a great feature that helps students with different backgrounds to be eligible for higher education without the limitation of a particular certificate.
Scholarship and Funding Opportunities
Many scholarships and financial grants require a specific UCAS tariff. Gaining higher UCAS points also gives you access to more financial support.
In some cases, your UCAS score is the sole criterion for obtaining aid. Such grants and funding allow students of all backgrounds to opt for a university education.
Motivation and Goal-Setting
The UCAS tariff points system is designed to inspire students to achieve higher grades and acquire further qualifications, which may help them pursue more enriching education and be better prepared for university-level study.
Comparative Analysis
The UCAS points play a role in creating a uniform way of measuring the academic prowess of students across the country.
Such a comparison is helpful for universities and colleges when deciding which candidates with different types of education qualifications in the UK are stronger for a particular programme.
In a nutshell, the UCAS system plays a crucial role in the UK’s educational system and provides a standardised, flexible, and comprehensive measure of student achievement.
Also read: Best UK Universities For Every Degree.
How Do I Earn UCAS Points?
If you are considering pursuing a university education in the UK, you must earn as many UCAS points as you can.
It will improve your chances of acceptance for your desired course and might be a deciding factor for getting educational aid.
Thankfully, you can gain UCAS points from several qualifications recognised by the UCAS. Some of them include:
- A-levels
- BTECs
- Scottish Highers
- Advanced Highers
- The International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Cambridge Pre-U qualifications
Each type of qualification will give you a different score depending on the grade band point you achieved.
Here is a brief outline of the qualifications with the numerical value you can achieve with them:
A-levels and AS-levels
Your grades in A-levels and AS-levels are one of the most common qualifications with which you can earn UCAS points. Higher A-level grades score more points; for instance, if you score an A* in your A-levels, you are awarded 56 points, an A is 48 points, and so forth.
While you can earn points from AS levels as well, they give you fewer points than full A-levels.
Alternative Qualifications
You can also earn UCAS points from BTEC qualifications, ranging from Certificates to Extended Diplomas. These are career-focused qualifications, and the points can vary significantly based on the level and grade band point of the qualification.
For example, an Extended Diploma at a Distinction* can offer similar points to three A-levels at A*.
Advanced Highers and Highers
If you are from Scotland, you can earn UCAS points through your Highers and Advanced Highers. These also follow a grade-based points system similar to A-levels in the UK.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The IB diploma is recognised worldwide and also contributes to UCAS tariff points. The total points you can earn through an IB are calculated based on your overall score.
Additional Qualifications
Other qualifications, such as your Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), music grades, and certain Level 3 qualifications (like Core Maths), can also contribute to your UCAS points tally.
With this knowledge, you can choose qualifications that might improve your UCAS score, giving you a competitive edge in your university applications.
Can you Get UCAS Points From GCSEs?
Unfortunately, your GCSEs won’t earn you any UCAS points. That said, your GCSE scores will indirectly help your academic journey.
GCSEs are Level 2 qualifications, which you usually take between ages 14 and 16 to prepare for any further academic paths. Even though they don’t give you UCAS points, GCSEs are vital because they determine your eligibility to take level 3 qualifications, which will give you UCAS tariff points.
Many sixth-form colleges expect students to have a minimum of specific grades at GCSE before they can take A-level courses.
Also, some universities might look into your GCSE scores when you apply for admissions.
How Do GCSEs Influence University Admission?
Universities usually set specific grades for subjects required in the course you wish to join. For instance, for a business degree, a university might require at least a grade 6 in Mathematics and English at your GCSEs.
Some competitive and high-ranked university and college courses require high grades in several GCSE subjects, which indicates a student’s general academic potential.
GCSEs indirectly influence your ability to gather the necessary UCAS tariff points for university admission by determining your eligibility for A-levels or other qualifications that provide UCAS points.
Strong GCSE grades can also be a deciding factor in cases where a student’s A-level results are borderline relative to the university’s entry requirements in the same subject.
Furthermore, universities frequently look for well-balanced applicants. Good GCSE scores can serve as a base for student applications, showing that students are consistent performers who can always meet the standards.
So, while the GCSEs might not directly give you any UCAS tariff points, they at least indirectly contribute to your university journey.
Are UCAS Points Important For All universities?
UCAS tariff points, used to assess students’ pre-university academic achievements, are important for college admissions in the UK, but this impact differs significantly between universities and degree programmes.
Not all universities and colleges use the UCAS points system as the primary metric for entry requirements. The emphasis on UCAS points depends on the specific admissions policy of each institution.
Some universities require you to reach specific UCAS points before they make you an offer. This system makes the recruitment process relatively flexible, ensuring candidates with varied qualifications have an equal chance.
For instance, a university might offer you a place if you achieve the required tariff points through A-levels, BTECs, or other recognised qualifications.
On the contrary, some universities and colleges may look at grades in specific subjects rather than your UCAS score. This approach is mainly used in courses requiring particular knowledge and expertise, such as medicine, engineering, and certain subjects requiring specific scientific knowledge.
These universities assess applicants based on the grades received in relevant A-levels or equivalent qualifications rather than the total number of UCAS tariff points tallied.
UCAS Points Calculator
You can easily calculate your UCAS points using an online calculator tool by taking the following steps:
Step 1: Identify your Eligible Qualifications
Begin by listing the qualifications that are recognised by UCAS. These include A-levels, BTECs, Scottish Highers, International Baccalaureate (IB) diplomas, and other similar awards.
Step 2: Find the Points Value for Each Grade
Each qualification and grade corresponds to a specific number of UCAS points. For example, an A* in an A-level is worth 56 points, an A is 48 points, a B is 40 points, and so on.
Step 3: Use the UCAS Points Table or Calculator
You can manually check a UCAS tariff table, which lists the points for different grades across various qualifications. Alternatively, the UCAS website offers an online points calculator, where you can simply input your qualifications and grades to calculate your total points automatically.
Step 4: Add your Points
Add the points for all your qualifications to find how many UCAS points you have. Universities will consider this total when considering your application.
By carefully calculating your tariff points, you can better understand your standing in the competitive university admissions process and identify which universities and colleges might be within your reach based on their UCAS entry requirements.
How Can I Get More UCAS Points?
Getting more UCAS points will significantly impact your choices of higher education, allowing you to apply for a wide range of courses at various universities.
Here’s how you can accrue more UCAS points to strengthen your university application:
Pursue Additional Qualifications
It is a good idea to pursue additional qualifications in addition to the standard ones.
For instance, completing additional A-levels or AS levels offers the possibility of a higher point score. You can also consider doing a BTEC, which is offered in many subjects, to boost your score.
You could also diversify your skill set with various types of qualifications in addition to traditional courses.
The EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is an example that greatly assists and can give you up to 28 UCAS points. Music exams and diplomas related to dance or drama can also give you additional UCAS points.
Earn Points Through an Accredited Online Programme
Consider online research programmes like Immerse Education’s Accredited Online Research Programme, which awards 8 UCAS points upon completion. The programme enhances your university application and deepens your understanding of your chosen field, resulting in a university-level research paper. It sets a strong foundation for your academic and career success.
Study of Foreign Language
Learning a foreign language can boost your UCAS points and broaden your academic horizons. Achieving proficiency in a second language also demonstrates to university administrators that you possess valuable skills like communication, cultural awareness, and adaptability.
Many universities offer additional UCAS points for language qualifications such as A-levels, IB courses, or language proficiency exams like DELF, DELE, or HSK.
Mastering a foreign language enhances your academic profile and personal and professional prospects in an increasingly globalised world.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a good way to gain additional UCAS points or maximise your chances for acceptance while doing something good for the community.
Many universities value community engagement for voluntary work through organisations like the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award or the National Citizen Service.
Volunteering can demonstrate your devotion to community, leadership, and teamwork, which will be advantageous when you apply to universities.
Whether it is coaching, environmental protection, or supporting vulnerable groups, participating in the betterment of the community is always a good idea.
Conclusion
Understanding the UCAS system is essential if you want to pursue a university education in the UK. These points influence your eligibility for various university courses and provide a standardised way for admissions teams to assess a wide range of qualifications.
You can significantly broaden your higher education prospects by strategically acquiring and maximising the UCAS tariff through a mix of qualifications and high grades. The comprehensive understanding of UCAS points empowers you to navigate the complexities of university admissions effectively, ensuring you are well-equipped to make informed decisions about your educational future.
Looking for support with your university application? Gain additional UCAS points through our accredited Online Research Programme today.
