UCAS stands for the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service—the UK’s central organisation for managing university applications. Established in 1993, UCAS helps students apply to higher education across the UK.
UCAS was established to make the admissions process simpler and more transparent for students, schools, and universities alike. Today, it acts as the main gateway for students applying to higher education in the UK.
UCAS points (or “UCAS Tariff points”) are used by universities to compare applicants with different qualifications and grades.
If you’re applying to university in the UK, understanding how to get UCAS points is crucial.
Disclaimer: All the information provided was correct at the time of publication (October 2025) and was collected with the help of accredited tools and AI.
What Are UCAS Points?
UCAS points are a standardised system used to allocate values to post-16 qualifications (like A-levels, BTECs, Scottish Highers, and more). This system lets universities compare students fairly, even if they’ve taken different routes after their GCSEs.
The more challenging the qualification and the higher your grade the more points you get.
Most UK universities set entry requirements using UCAS points, sometimes in addition to or instead of specific grades. (UCAS)
Which Qualifications Count Towards UCAS Points?
UCAS points only come from Level 3 qualifications and above. Here are the most common:
- A-levels: A* = 56, A = 48, B = 40, C = 32, D = 24, E = 16 points (per subject).
- AS-levels: A = 20, B = 16, C = 12, D = 10, E = 6 points.
- BTEC Nationals (Extended Diploma): DDD* = 168 points (maximum); other grades scale down.
- T-levels: Distinction* = 168, Distinction = 144, Merit = 120, Pass = 96.
- Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers, International Baccalaureate, and some graded music or drama exams (Grade 6–8) are also included.
- Extended Project Qualification (EPQ): Up to 28 points for A*
Note: GCSEs do not earn UCAS points; only qualifications completed after Year 11 count. (UCAS)
How Do You Get UCAS Points?
1. Focus on Strong Subjects
You earn more points by getting higher grades, so play to your strengths. Concentrate effort on the subjects you excel at to push your grades higher. (Edumentors)
2. Take Additional Qualifications
Many students add an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification), which is worth up to 28 points and can demonstrate research skills valued by universities. Others take supplementary A-levels, AS-levels, or combine BTECs with A-levels. (Immerse Education)
3. Use Vocational and Creative Awards
Qualifications like BTEC Nationals, Cambridge Technicals, and music/drama graded exams (Grade 6–8, e.g. ABRSM) also provide points. These can be especially useful if you prefer coursework or creative pathways (University of Roehampton)
4. Consider Retakes if Needed
If you fall short, you can resit exams to improve your grades and increase your total points. Many universities accept resits and will use your highest achieved grade.
5. Check for Bonus Points
Some universities give bonus points or lower offer requirements if you have an EPQ, extra AS-level, or other supplementary qualification. Always check entry criteria for each course you’re applying to. (Golden Circle Tutors)
Trends and Data: UCAS Points and University Offers in 2024
- Record numbers of UK students are applying and getting accepted to university. In 2024, 279,550 18-year-olds were accepted, a 2.9% rise on 2023. Application rates are at a historic high. (UCAS News)
- Most successful applicants use a mix of A-levels, BTECs, EPQs, and other qualifications to maximise points and flexibility. (UCAS)
- Socio-economic differences remain a factor as students from more advantaged backgrounds are more likely to achieve higher point totals and secure places at high-demand universities. (HEPI)
- Vocational pathways like T-levels and BTECs are increasingly popular and well-regarded.
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Final Tips
- Plan early: Choose a combination of qualifications that fit your strengths and future ambitions.
- Aim high: Every grade increase adds up, especially at A-level or BTEC.
- Use all resources: School advisors, UCAS tools, and university admissions teams can help you map out your best strategy.
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