UCAS points explained (quick converter & common combos)
UCAS points, also called UCAS Tariff points, are a way of turning post-16 qualifications into a numerical score. It’s how most higher education institutions decide who can enrol in specific courses.
If you’re planning the next step in your educational journey, understanding your point total can help you see how close you are to your goal (it’s also essential when you’re researching for available courses).
Confused? That’s okay: when offers use a mix of grades and subject-specific requirements, it helps to know the basic conversions, combinations and the most important checks to make before applying.
As one of the longest-established suppliers of self-study distance learning courses in the UK, we’re here to help. For UCAS points explained, read on!
What are UCAS points?
UCAS points are a way of assigning numerical values to eligible Level 3 qualifications.
University admissions teams then use these values to compare different qualifications, such as A Levels, AS Levels, BTECs, and other recognised routes, when assessing applications.
For example, an offer might be grade-based, such as BBB at A Level, or points-based, such as 120 UCAS points. Some offers combine both, such as 120 UCAS points including a B in Biology.
It’s because of this that prospective students should check the full course requirements, not just the total points score.
Quick UCAS points converter
For A Levels and AS Levels, UCAS points are awarded by grade. The higher the grade, the higher the value!
Grade | A Level UCAS points | AS Level UCAS points |
A* | 56 | — |
A | 48 | 20 |
B | 40 | 16 |
C | 32 | 12 |
D | 24 | 10 |
E | 16 | 6 |
To work out your total, add together the points from each eligible subject. For example, three A Levels at BBB would be 40 + 40 + 40 = 120 UCAS points. An A, B and C would also give 120 UCAS points, because 48 + 40 + 32 = 120.
AS Levels are worth less than full A Levels, but they can contribute to your total if they’re accepted. However, you usually can’t count an AS Level and an A Level in the same subject together.
In most cases, only the highest level of achievement in that subject will count (for example, an AS in Biology and an A Level in Biology would not normally be added together).
Common UCAS point combinations
Once you know the points value for each grade, it’s easier to see how different A Level results can add up to the same total. For example, BBB and ABC are both worth 120 UCAS points, even though the grades are different.
These combinations are based on the standard UCAS Tariff values for A Levels: A = 56, A = 48, B = 40, C = 32, D = 24 and E = 16*. Again, it’s worth remembering that the same points total doesn’t always mean the same offer.
A course may ask for 120 UCAS points, but it might also need the student to have studied a particular subject or grade, such as 120 points including a B in Biology. To avoid dissapointment, always check the full course entry requirements before applying.
UCAS points | Common A Level combinations |
96 | CCC, BDD |
104 | BCC |
112 | BBC, ACC |
120 | BBB, ABC |
128 | ABB, AAC |
136 | AAB |
144 | AAA, A*AB |
Do all universities use UCAS points?
Not all universities use UCAS points in the same way.
Some list their entry requirements as a points total. Others ask for specific grades. For example, one course might ask for 120 UCAS points, while another might require students to achieve BBB at A Level.
Can distance learning courses help with UCAS points?
Yes, provided the course leads to an eligible qualification that carries UCAS Tariff points. A-levels are still one of the most widely recognised routes into university.
They’re of value to universities and employers because they give students plenty of transferable skills: you’re asked to think critically, conduct independent research and develop a wealth of subject knowledge.
That’s why we offer a range of A-Level and AS Level courses! Some students need a flexible way to study from home, and our A-Level courses are designed to be completed over one or two years.
Our students can study a wide range of subjects, including (but not limited to) Biology, Business, Chemistry, Economics, English Language, English Literature, History, Law, Mathematics, Psychology and Sociology.
Ready to get started? If you’re returning to education after some time away or need the right qualifications for a university course, we’re here to help.
FAQs
Do GCSEs count towards UCAS points?
No, GCSEs don’t count towards UCAS points. UCAS Tariff points apply only to eligible Level 3 qualifications, such as A-Levels, AS Levels, and some vocational qualifications. GCSEs are Level 2 qualifications, so they don’t carry UCAS Tariff points.
How many UCAS points is BBB?
BBB at A-Level is worth 120 UCAS points: a grade B at A-Level is worth 40 UCAS points, so three B grades add up to 120 points.
