What are T-Levels?
T-Levels are a Level 3 qualification — the same level as A-Levels — but designed for students who want a more practical, industry-focused route. They launched in 2020 as the government’s answer to a simple question: what if you could get a qualification that combined classroom learning with real workplace experience?
Unlike A-Levels, where you pick 3 or 4 subjects, a T-Level focuses on one subject area in depth. You spend 80% of your time in the classroom and 20% on an industry placement with a real employer — a minimum of 315 hours over the 2-year programme.
Key fact
T-Levels carry up to 168 UCAS tariff points — the same as three A* grades at A-Level. They’re recognised by universities, employers, and professional bodies.
How T-Levels work
A T-Level is a 2-year, full-time programme studied at a college or sixth form. The structure breaks down like this:
- 80% classroom learning — theory, technical skills, and subject-specific knowledge
- 20% industry placement — a minimum of 315 hours with an employer, giving you hands-on experience in a real workplace
You focus on one subject area for the full 2 years. This depth means you come out with genuine expertise in your chosen field — something employers and universities both value.
The industry placement is arranged by your college or training provider. It’s not a casual work experience week — it’s a substantial, structured placement where you apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real work.
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T-Level subjects available (2025/26)
There are currently 22 T-Level subjects available, with new ones still being rolled out. Here’s the full list:
New subjects are added each year. Check the latest list on gov.uk.
T-Levels vs A-Levels
This is the question most people ask first. Here’s how they compare side by side:
| T-Levels | A-Levels | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 years | 2 years |
| Focus | One subject area, practical + theory | 3–4 subjects, mostly academic |
| Industry placement | 315+ hours mandatory | None (usually) |
| UCAS points | Up to 168 (equivalent to 3 A*s) | Up to 168 (3 A*s) |
| Best for | People who know what industry they want to work in | People who want to keep options open or go to uni |
Neither is “better” — they serve different purposes. If you already know you want to work in health, digital, or construction, a T-Level gives you focused training and real employer contact. If you’re not sure yet and want to keep your options open, A-Levels give you breadth.
T-Levels vs apprenticeships
Both are practical, work-focused routes — but they’re structured very differently:
| T-Levels | Apprenticeships | |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Full-time student | Employed |
| Pay | No salary (you're a student) | Minimum £6.40/hr (often more) |
| Work experience | 315+ hour placement | 80% of your time is at work |
| Qualification | Level 3 (equivalent to A-Levels) | Level 2 to Level 7 (GCSE to Master's) |
| Best for | People who aren't ready to commit to a specific employer | People who want to earn while they learn |
A T-Level keeps you in education with a taster of the workplace. An apprenticeship puts you in the workplace with training on the side. If you want to try an industry before committing, a T-Level gives you that flexibility. If you’re ready to start working, an apprenticeship gets you earning from day one.
How T-Level grades work
T-Levels use a different grading system from A-Levels. Your overall grade is calculated from two components: the core component (theory and knowledge) and the occupational specialism (practical skills).
The overall grades are:
- Distinction* — 168 UCAS points (equivalent to 3 A*s at A-Level)
- Distinction — 144 UCAS points (equivalent to 3 As)
- Merit — 120 UCAS points (equivalent to 3 Bs)
- Pass — 72 UCAS points (between 3 Ds and 3 Cs)
UCAS tariff points
A T-Level Distinction* is worth 168 UCAS points— exactly the same as three A* grades at A-Level. Universities use UCAS tariff points to set entry requirements, so a strong T-Level grade can open the same doors.
Entry requirements
To start a T-Level, you’ll typically need:
- 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths
- Some T-Levels have specific subject requirements — for example, the Health T-Level may ask for a science GCSE
- Entry requirements vary by provider, so check directly with the college or sixth form you’re applying to
If you don’t quite meet the entry requirements, some providers offer a T-Level Transition Programme — a 1-year course designed to prepare you for a T-Level the following year.
Where T-Levels lead
A T-Level opens up three main routes:
University. Yes, universities accept T-Levels. They carry UCAS tariff points, and most UK universities now recognise them as a valid entry qualification. But not every university accepts them for every course yet — it depends on the subject and the institution. Always check with admissions before you apply.
Apprenticeships. Your T-Level gives you a Level 3 qualification and genuine industry experience, which puts you in a strong position for higher and degree apprenticeships.
Employment. The 315-hour industry placement means you already have real work experience. Some students get offered jobs by their placement employer before they even finish their T-Level.
How to find T-Level courses
T-Levels are delivered by approved colleges and training providers across England. To find courses near you:
- Use the official DfE list of T-Level providers
- Search on the T-Levels website for subjects and locations
- Contact your local colleges directly — most will list T-Levels on their course pages
T-Levels: frequently asked questions
Not sure which route is right for you?
T-Levels are one of several options after school. Explore the alternatives to find the best fit.
James Adams
Career and Education Founder
James Adams is a Career and Education Founder who also runs Tech Educators, an award-winning digital training provider based in Norfolk. He has direct experience delivering Skills Bootcamps, apprenticeships, and corporate training, and holds an Executive MBA (Distinction) from the University of East Anglia. He created Leaving School to give young people honest, independent guidance on every route available after school.