UCAS Tariff Point Calculator
Calculate Your UCAS Points
Your Total UCAS Points:
Grade Conversion Tables
A Level Points
| Grade | UCAS Points | Percentage Range |
|---|---|---|
| A* | 56 | 90-100% |
| A | 48 | 80-89% |
| B | 40 | 70-79% |
| C | 32 | 60-69% |
| D | 24 | 50-59% |
| E | 16 | 40-49% |
BTEC Points
| Qualification | Grade | UCAS Points |
|---|---|---|
| Extended Diploma | D*D*D* | 168 |
| Extended Diploma | D*D*D | 160 |
| Extended Diploma | D*DD | 152 |
| Extended Diploma | DDD | 144 |
| Diploma | D*D* | 112 |
| Diploma | D*D | 104 |
| Diploma | DD | 96 |
| Extended Certificate | D* | 56 |
| Extended Certificate | D | 48 |
| Extended Certificate | M | 32 |
| Extended Certificate | P | 16 |
International Baccalaureate Points
| IB Grade | Higher Level Points | Standard Level Points |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 56 | 28 |
| 6 | 48 | 24 |
| 5 | 32 | 16 |
| 4 | 24 | 12 |
| 3 | 12 | 6 |
| 2 | 0 | 0 |
| 1 | 0 | 0 |
What Are UCAS Tariff Points?
UCAS Tariff points are a numerical system that converts your post-16 qualifications into a standardised score. This system allows universities to compare different types of qualifications fairly, whether you’ve completed A Levels, BTECs, International Baccalaureate, or other recognised qualifications.
The points system takes into account both the level of difficulty of your qualification and the grade you achieved. Higher-level qualifications and better grades receive more points, reflecting the greater academic achievement they represent.
How Universities Use Tariff Points
Universities use UCAS Tariff points in several ways:
- Entry Requirements: Many courses specify a minimum number of tariff points needed for admission
- Flexible Offers: Some universities make offers based on total points rather than specific grades, giving you more flexibility in how you meet requirements
- Comparison Tool: Points help admissions teams compare applicants with different qualification backgrounds
- Clearing: During clearing, your total points can quickly show which courses you’re eligible for
Important Note: Not all universities use tariff points for their entry requirements. Some prefer specific grades in particular subjects. Always check the specific entry requirements for your chosen course and university.
Common Tariff Point Targets
Russell Group Universities
Most Russell Group universities typically require 144+ points (equivalent to AAA at A Level) for competitive courses, though requirements vary significantly by subject and institution.
Other Universities
- 120+ points: Many good universities for various subjects (BBB equivalent)
- 112+ points: Wide range of courses available (BBC equivalent)
- 96+ points: Access to many university courses (CCC equivalent)
- 80+ points: Entry-level university courses and foundation degrees
Maximising Your Tariff Points
Strategic Subject Selection
When planning your studies, consider these strategies to maximise your tariff points:
- Focus on Higher-Level Qualifications: A Levels and BTEC Extended Diplomas offer more points than AS Levels or single BTECs
- Choose Subjects You Excel In: It’s better to achieve high grades in subjects you’re strong in than struggle with traditionally “harder” subjects
- Consider Mixed Qualifications: You can combine different types of qualifications (e.g., 2 A Levels + 1 BTEC) to reach your target points
- Extended Project Qualification (EPQ): An A grade EPQ adds 28 additional points to your total
Pro Tip: Some universities offer lower entry requirements if you’re studying relevant subjects. For example, a medicine course might accept lower overall points if you have A Levels in Biology and Chemistry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Universities accept combinations of different qualifications. For example, you might have 2 A Levels and 1 BTEC Extended Certificate, or mix A Levels with an International Baccalaureate course. All eligible qualifications contribute to your total tariff points.
Not all qualifications have tariff point values. The system primarily covers Level 3 qualifications taken after age 16. GCSEs, for example, don’t contribute to your tariff total, though universities may still require specific GCSE grades separately.
You can use your best grades when calculating tariff points. If you retake an A Level and improve from a B to an A, you would use the A grade (48 points) rather than the original B grade (40 points) in your calculation.
When applying to university, you’ll use predicted grades to calculate estimated tariff points. Universities will make conditional offers based on these predictions, which you’ll need to meet with your actual results.
Yes, some qualifications don’t have tariff values but are still accepted by universities. These include certain professional qualifications, some international qualifications, and specialised diplomas. Universities assess these separately.
Generally, yes. You can combine qualifications taken in different years to reach your target points. However, some universities prefer recent qualifications, particularly for competitive courses or specific subjects.
Alternative Pathways to Higher Education
If You Don’t Meet Point Requirements
Don’t worry if your tariff points don’t meet standard entry requirements. Consider these alternatives:
- Foundation Courses: Many universities offer foundation years that lead into degree programmes
- Access to Higher Education Diplomas: Designed for mature students returning to education
- University Technical Colleges: Specialised institutions offering technical and professional qualifications
- Clearing and Adjustment: Opportunities to find courses with available spaces after results day
- Gap Year and Reapplication: Take time to retake exams or gain relevant experience
Planning Your University Application
When using tariff points to plan your university applications:
- Research Thoroughly: Check if your target universities use tariff points or prefer specific grades
- Apply Strategically: Include a range of universities with different point requirements
- Consider Subject Requirements: Some courses need specific subjects regardless of total points
- Check Recent Changes: University requirements can change annually, so verify current entry criteria
- Attend Open Days: Speak directly with admissions staff about their requirements and flexibility
Remember: UCAS Tariff points are just one part of your university application. Personal statements, references, interviews, and portfolios also play crucial roles in the admissions process.