UCAS Points and Tariff Explained

What the UCAS Tariff is

The UCAS Tariff is a points system that puts different post-16 qualifications onto a common scale so they can be compared. It assigns a number of points to the grades you achieve in eligible qualifications — for example A-levels, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, BTEC Nationals, Scottish Highers, and many others.

The Tariff exists so that universities can express an entry requirement in points and compare applicants holding different qualification types. Not every course uses points-based offers, however — many ask for specific grades instead.

How qualifications convert to points

Each eligible qualification has a set number of points attached to each grade, based on the qualification's size and the grade achieved. Higher grades in larger qualifications carry more points; smaller qualifications carry fewer. You add up the points from your qualifications to get a total.

The exact point values for each grade are set by UCAS and are reviewed over time. Because these values can change and depend on the specific qualification, do not memorise a figure from elsewhere — use the official UCAS Tariff calculator to work out your total, and verify it for your application year.

• Points depend on both the qualification size and the grade achieved
• A-levels, IB, BTEC Nationals, Scottish Highers and more are included
• You total the points across your eligible qualifications
• Always confirm current values with the official UCAS Tariff calculator

Points-based offers vs grade-based offers

Universities choose how to phrase their entry requirements. Some make a points-based offer (for example, asking for a certain number of UCAS points), which gives flexibility in how you reach the total. Others make a grade-based offer (for example, specific A-level grades or an IB points total), especially for competitive or specialist courses.

Always read the entry requirements for each specific course. A course may also require particular subjects or a minimum grade in a key subject regardless of your overall points, so points alone do not tell the whole story.

Why you should not over-rely on points

UCAS points are a useful comparison tool, but they are not the only thing universities consider. Many selective courses look at your specific subjects, predicted grades, personal statement, reference, and any admissions test — not just a points total.

Treat the Tariff as a way to understand and compare offers, not a target you can game. The most reliable approach is to check the actual requirements published by each course and confirm how (or whether) they use the Tariff.