Last verified: March 2026
T-Levels carry UCAS tariff points – just like A-Levels. A Distinction* in a T-Level is worth 168 UCAS points, the same as three A*s at A-Level. Here’s the full breakdown so you know exactly where you stand.
T-Level UCAS points table
Official UCAS tariff points
| T-Level grade | UCAS tariff points | A-Level equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Distinction* | 168 | 3 A*s |
| Distinction | 144 | 3 As |
| Merit | 120 | 3 Bs |
| Pass (C or above on core) | 96 | 3 Cs |
| Pass (D or E on core) | 72 | 3 Ds |
Source: UCAS tariff tables. Points are for the overall T-Level grade, not individual components.
How T-Level grading works
T-Levels are graded on two components:
- Core component: graded A*–E (like A-Levels). Assessed through exams and an employer-set project.
- Occupational specialism: graded Distinction, Merit, or Pass. Assessed through practical tasks.
Your overall T-Level grade (Distinction*, Distinction, Merit, Pass, or Fail) combines both components. The UCAS points in the table above are based on this overall grade.
Do universities accept T-Levels?
Most Russell Group universities now accept T-Levels for relevant courses. But there are important caveats:
- Not all courses accept all T-Level subjects – a Digital T-Level may not be accepted for a History degree
- Some courses still require specific A-Levels (especially medicine, veterinary science, and some sciences)
- UCAS and individual university websites are the definitive sources
Always check the specific course page on the university’s website – don’t assume your T-Level will be accepted for every course. If you’re applying to university, you’ll also need a personal statement.
T-Levels vs A-Levels: UCAS points comparison
| Qualification | Top grade tariff | Number of subjects | Study style |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-Level (1 subject) | 168 points (Distinction*) | 1 (deep specialism) | 80% classroom, 20% placement |
| 3 A-Levels | 168 points (3 × A*) | 3 (breadth) | Classroom + independent study |
| BTEC Extended Diploma | 168 points (D*D*D*) | 1 (vocational) | Coursework-heavy |
All three can give you the same maximum UCAS points. The difference is in approach: T-Levels go deep into one subject with a placement, A-Levels give breadth across three subjects, and BTECs are coursework-based.
Frequently asked questions
Exploring your options?
Compare T-Levels with other qualifications or browse subject guides.
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.