How to Get UCAS Points
Updated
You get UCAS points by passing Level 3 qualifications (SCQF Level 6 in Scotland), such as A levels, BTEC Nationals and T levels. To add more points, you can take an extra qualification such as the EPQ (up to 28 points), Core Maths (up to 20) or a Grade 8 music or drama exam (up to 30).
Your total
Choose your grades to see your UCAS Tariff points.
Breakdown
- A levelNo grade yet
- A levelNo grade yet
- A levelNo grade yet
Ways to get more UCAS points
| Qualification | Up to (points) |
|---|---|
| Extended Project QualificationA research project you choose yourself, offered by many schools and colleges. | 28 |
| Core MathsFor students who are not taking A level maths. | 20 |
| AS levelSome schools still offer AS levels in an extra subject. | 20 |
| Grade 8 music or drama (performance)Taken outside school with exam boards such as ABRSM, Trinity, LAMDA and RSL. Grades 6 and 7 also carry points. | 30 |
Can you get UCAS points outside school?
Yes. Graded music and drama exams are taken outside school, and Grades 6 to 8 in performance carry UCAS points. A Grade 8 Distinction is worth 30 points, a Merit 27 and a Pass 24.
What does not give UCAS points?
GCSEs are Level 2 qualifications, so they carry no UCAS points. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, volunteering, work experience and part-time jobs are not in the UCAS Tariff tables either. They can still help your application, so mention them in your UCAS application where they are relevant.
How to get UCAS points FAQs
Do GCSEs give UCAS points?
No. GCSEs are Level 2 qualifications, so they carry no UCAS Tariff points. Universities may still ask for certain GCSE grades, such as English and maths.
Does DofE give UCAS points?
No. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is not in the UCAS Tariff tables, so it carries no UCAS points. It can still show useful skills in your application.
How many UCAS points is Grade 8?
A Grade 8 music or drama performance exam is worth 30 UCAS points with a Distinction, 27 with a Merit and 24 with a Pass.
What is the quickest way to get more UCAS points?
Look at what you are already working towards. A music or drama grade you are taking anyway, or an EPQ alongside your A levels, can add up to 30 or 28 points.