What Are UCAS Tariff Points?
UCAS Tariff points are a system used in the UK that gives a numerical value to qualifications that are accepted for entry to university. The Tariff allows admissions teams and applicants to compare different types of qualifications, such as A Levels, BTEC Nationals and Scottish Highers, on a common scale. Some universities make offers in points, though many state offers in grades.
How it works
Each qualification and grade has a points value determined by its size and level. Under the current Tariff, which was introduced for courses starting in 2017, a full A Level is worth the following:
| A Level grade | Points |
|---|---|
| A* | 56 |
| A | 48 |
| B | 40 |
| C | 32 |
| D | 24 |
| E | 16 |
Other qualifications, including BTECs, the Extended Project Qualification, Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers, the International Baccalaureate, Welsh Baccalaureate and many more, have their own values. Points are added together to give a total. Values and the list of qualifications can change, so check the UCAS website.
How offers use it
An offer might be expressed as "112 points from three A Levels," "AAB" or "128 points including grade B in biology." Some universities require specific subjects or grades as well as total points. Not all qualifications are accepted, so always check the entry requirements for each course.
Planning with the Tariff
- Check the university's stated requirements, including subjects and any additional tests.
- Use the UCAS Tariff calculator to see the total from your qualifications.
- Consider mixing qualifications, where universities accept them.
- Look at contextual offers, which may lower grade requirements for some applicants.
- Remember that offers are conditional, and the final grades decide.
Limits
The Tariff is a tool, not a measure of the quality of qualifications, and universities may treat qualifications differently. Highly selective courses often specify grades, not points, and require particular subjects.
Related terms
See predicted grades, A Levels, contextual offer, baccalaureate and Clearing.
Frequently asked questions
How many UCAS points is an A Level worth?
Under the current system, an A* is worth 56 points, an A is 48, a B is 40, a C is 32, a D is 24 and an E is 16, for a full A Level. Check UCAS for the current tariff.
Do all universities use tariff points?
Some make offers in points, and many use grades such as AAB. Always read the entry requirements, which also specify subjects.
Can I combine different qualifications?
Yes. The Tariff lets you add points from different qualifications, such as A Levels, BTECs and Extended Project Qualifications, where universities accept them.