UCAS points: teachers love to talk about their importance if you’re applying to university, but do you know what they really are?
We’ll share definitions, tips and next steps to help you learn about UCAS points and how you can prepare for life after school.
Read our guide below!
What are UCAS Points?
UCAS Tariff points translate your qualifications and grades into a numerical value. Most qualifications carry a UCAS Tariff value, which varies depending on the size of the qualification and the grade achieved.
In other words, the higher the grade, the more points you’ll achieve. Simple!
How do Universities Use UCAS Points?
According to UCAS, 70% of universities refer to UCAS points in their course entry requirements.
Some universities submit grade-based offers, such as BBB at A-Level or DMM in a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma, while some will submit an offer using UCAS points, such as 120. The latter means you can achieve any combination of grades to meet the score offered.
Since the system was introduced in 2001 to standardise comparisons between students with different qualifications, the university admissions process has become fairer and more consistent. Universities that accept UCAS Tariff points in their entry requirements play a key role in championing this fairness and improving access for applicants.
It’s essential to check the accepted qualifications for each university you apply to, as just because you can gain tariff points from a qualification does not mean you will always be able to use it when applying for courses. If you’re ever in doubt, contact the university directly.
How to Calculate UCAS Points
Time to get the calculator out! There are some useful tools online provided by UCAS, including the Tariff Calculator, which generates your total points after you select your qualifications.
The UCAS Tariff Calculator is an excellent tool for students exploring different combinations of qualifications to take to maximise their UCAS points.
Want to see the full list of qualifications converted into UCAS Tariff Points? Download the 2026 Tariff Table to compare all available qualifications.
How Many UCAS Points Will You Need for University?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a straightforward answer to this question. The number of UCAS points you’ll need depends on the course and university you’re applying to.
As mentioned, most universities list their entry requirements as either grades or as a tariff score, and usually, the more competitive the course, the higher the required points.
For example, the entry requirements to study Chemistry at Oxford University are A*A*A at A-Level (160 UCAS Tariff Points), while the entry requirements to study History at Oxford University are AAA at A-Level (144 UCAS Tariff Points).
Are UCAS Points Relevant for International Students?
If you’re an international student planning to study in the UK, it’s essential to check whether your international qualifications meet the entry requirements for your chosen UK universities and courses.
UCAS points make it easier for international students to check eligibility before applying and compare UK universities and courses.
While International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma qualifications feature in the 2026 Tariff Table, not all international qualifications are included in the system. But don’t worry, many universities list accepted international qualifications directly on their websites, so it’s always worth checking university course pages.
How to Earn More UCAS Points
Are you looking for ways to gain more UCAS points to strengthen your university applications?
Various additional qualifications can increase your total number of UCAS points and showcase your commitment to career and university preparation. A common qualification is an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) worth up to 28 UCAS points. This is an independent research project, often taken alongside A-Levels in the UK.
Other valuable qualifications that offer UCAS points include the Level 3 Award in Work Experience & Career Planning, which can be achieved during an InvestIN Summer Experience Programme.
Gain 8 UCAS Points this Summer with InvestIN
Not only do you gain up to 65 hours of hands-on experience with industry professionals and the opportunity to visit real workplaces in London during an InvestIN Summer School, but you also gain valuable UCAS points and experiences to strengthen your university application.
So, what’s stopping you? Join us this summer and experience life beyond the classroom!
Explore our summer work experience programmes here.
