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UCAS points calculator

UCAS points calculator

Calculation History

 

UCAS tariff points provide a system for scoring and ranking various qualifications by assigning a designated number of points to different grades. This allows for easy measurement and comparison of qualifications. Students can apply to university courses using qualifications such as Advanced (A)-Levels, Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC), and Scottish Highers. While these qualifications have different grading systems, the UCAS points enable universities to effectively compare students' results, taking grade levels into account. For example, a C grade at A-Level is equivalent to an H5 in the International Baccalaureate, as both are valued at 32 points. This information is included in the UCAS application to demonstrate how a student meets university entry requirements. Understanding UCAS points is essential, as it helps students determine the grades they need to achieve for admission to their desired university. Let us explore more about this topic today:

UCAS Points Calculator: A Brief Overview

The UCAS points calculator is a tool that helps students determine their UCAS points based on their qualifications and grades. By putting their results from A-Levels, BTECs, or other accepted qualifications, students can easily see how their academic achievements translate into UCAS points. This is particularly useful for understanding eligibility for university courses in the UK, as different institutions have varying entry requirements. The UCAS points calculator simplifies the process of comparing qualifications, allowing students to plan their applications more effectively.

What are UCAS tariff points?

UCAS tariff points are a system used by universities in the UK to assign a numerical value to various qualifications and grades. This UCAS points system helps universities evaluate and compare the academic achievements of applicants from different educational backgrounds. Each qualification, such as A-Levels, BTECs, and certain international qualifications like International Baccalaureate (IB), is assigned a specific number of tariff points based on the grades achieved. These points are then used to determine whether a student meets the entry requirements for specific courses at universities. Students can use the UCAS score calculator available on our website to determine their UCAS points.

UCAS Tariff Points Table

The following tables display the UCAS tariff points linked to the most common qualifications and their corresponding grades.

A-Level UCAS Points

A Level Grade

UCAS Tariff Points

A*

56

A

48

B

40

C

32

D

24

E

16

AS-Level UCAS points

AS Grade

UCAS Tariff Points

A

20

B

16

C

12

D

10

E

6

EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) UCAS points

Extended Project Grade

UCAS Tariff Points

A*

28

A

24

B

20

C

16

D

12

E

8

BTEC UCAS points

BTEC Grade

UCAS Tariff Points

D*

56

Distinction

48

Merit

32

Pass

16

IB UCAS Points

IBDP Score (Higher Level)

UCAS Points

IBDP Score (Standard Level)

UCAS Points

IB Core

UCAS Points

7

56

7

28

A

12

6

48

6

24

B

10

5

32

5

16

C

8

4

24

4

12

D

6

3

12

3

6

E

4

1 & 2

0

1 & 2

0

 

 

How to use the UCAS points calculator?

To use the UCAS tariff points converter, follow the below mentioned steps:

  1. Select the qualification type from the list at the top of the UCAS calculator

  2. Enter the course title in the course box

  3. Choose the grade received for the qualification to calculate the UCAS tariff points

  4. Click "add qualification" to display the qualification at the top of the calculator

  5. Repeat steps 1-4 to add any remaining qualifications

  6. Check the blue bar at the top of the UCAS tariff points converter for the total UCAS tariff points to determine eligibility for the chosen course

In a Nutshell

The UCAS points system is an essential component for students pursuing higher education in the UK, as it provides a standardised way to assess and compare various qualifications. By understanding how UCAS points are calculated and using the calculator, students can make informed decisions about their academic paths and ensure they meet university entry requirements. Ultimately, this knowledge equips students with the confidence to aim for their desired courses, facilitating a smoother transition into higher education and setting the stage for future success.

FAQs

UCAS points translate grades into a numerical value. Most post-16 qualifications, such as A Levels, BTECs, and certain apprenticeships, have an assigned UCAS points value.

UCAS assigns a numerical score to each of your existing qualifications, depending on the type of qualification and the grade achieved. These individual scores are then combined to calculate your total UCAS score.

Some international qualifications come with a designated UCAS score for each grade achieved, while others do not. To understand how your international qualifications are evaluated, the best approach is to visit our 'Your Country' page and locate the relevant information for the country where you obtained your qualifications.

The number of UCAS points needed varies depending on the university and the specific course you want to apply for. Most universities in the UK publish their entry requirements, which typically include a range of UCAS points needed for different courses. Competitive courses (like medicine or engineering) may require higher UCAS points, often between 120-144 points or more. On the other hand, less competitive courses may require lower points, around 96-120 points.

The UCAS points tariffs offered by different institutions can vary widely based on the specific university. Average entry requirements for courses typically range from 95 UCAS points to as high as 208 UCAS points. Since these figures represent averages, the actual UCAS points required for a specific course may differ significantly.

To determine if your UCAS points have been calculated correctly, you can follow these steps:
  • Ensure that all your qualifications are recognised by UCAS and have assigned points
  • Confirm that you have entered the correct grades for each qualification
  • Use the official calculator to recalculate your points based on your qualifications and grades
  • Refer to the UCAS tariff points table to check if the points assigned to your qualifications match what is listed
  • If you are still unsure, consider reaching out to the admissions office of the university you are applying to for clarification

If you can't find your qualification in the calculator, here are some steps you can take:
  • Ensure that your qualification is not listed under a different name or category. Some qualifications may have multiple designations.
  • Look for your qualification in the official UCAS tariff points table to see if it is included there.
  • Check the 'Your Country' page on the UCAS website for specific information about international qualifications and their tariff points.
  • Reach out to UCAS directly through their support channels. They can provide assistance in finding your qualification or clarifying how it fits into the tariff system.

UCAS tariff points serve as a guideline. While most universities and colleges generally accept the points assigned by UCAS for specific qualifications, they are not obligated to do so. In some cases, a university may determine that the content of a qualification is not entirely relevant to a specific course. In such instances, they might inform you that the qualification is valued at fewer points than what UCAS indicates.

Once you have your UCAS points tariff, check the entry requirements for your preferred universities and courses to ensure your points meet their criteria. Begin preparing your UCAS application, including personal statements and references, and consider alternative courses if your points fall short. If applicable, prepare for interviews or additional assessments required by specific programmes.

If you haven't met the entry requirements for your desired course, consider exploring alternative programmes at the same or different universities that align with your interests and have lower entry criteria. You might also look into foundation or access courses, which can help you gain the necessary qualifications and skills to progress to a degree later on. If possible, consider retaking exams or pursuing additional qualifications to boost your UCAS points.

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