UCAS Tariff Points Calculator
Select each qualification and grade to estimate your total UCAS tariff points.
What are UCAS points?
UCAS tariff points are a way of comparing different UK qualifications using a single points scale. Many universities use these points when making offers. For example, a course might ask for 120 UCAS points instead of naming one exact qualification route.
That means your total can come from different combinations of qualifications, such as A Levels, BTECs, EPQ, or other accepted awards. Not every university or course uses the tariff, but it remains common across many entry routes.
How to use this calculator
- Click Add Qualification for each subject or award you want to include.
- Select the qualification type (for example A Level or BTEC).
- Select your achieved or predicted grade.
- Click Calculate Total to see your estimated UCAS points.
- Optionally add your target offer to check if you are above or below it.
Common tariff examples
A Levels (per subject)
- A* = 56 points
- A = 48 points
- B = 40 points
- C = 32 points
- D = 24 points
- E = 16 points
Quick example combinations
- AAB at A Level = 48 + 48 + 40 = 136 points
- BBB at A Level = 40 + 40 + 40 = 120 points
- BBC at A Level = 40 + 40 + 32 = 112 points
Why your total points are only part of the picture
Even if your points total meets an offer, admissions teams can still look at the full application. Most courses consider personal statement quality, reference strength, required subjects, and in some cases interviews, auditions, portfolios, or admissions tests.
In practical terms, think of tariff points as a useful benchmark, not a guaranteed decision rule.
Tips to improve your application strength
1) Prioritize required subjects
If a course lists required grades in specific subjects (for example Maths or Chemistry), those requirements are usually more important than your overall points.
2) Build consistency across predicted grades
Steady performance across all subjects can make your application more credible and reduce risk around final results day.
3) Add value with enrichment
Relevant super-curricular activities, work experience, and independent reading can help show commitment and readiness for higher study.
4) Apply strategically
Include a balanced mix of aspirational, realistic, and safer choices in your UCAS list. This gives you more flexibility when results arrive.
Frequently asked questions
Do all universities use UCAS tariff points?
No. Some courses use explicit grade offers (like ABB), while others use points, and some use both.
Can I combine different qualification types?
Often yes, but policies vary by institution and course. Always check official entry criteria before relying on a mixed route.
Does an EPQ always count?
Sometimes it does and sometimes it does not. Some universities include it in points offers; others treat it as a bonus rather than a core requirement.
What if my points are slightly below an offer?
You may still have options through contextual offers, foundation years, adjustment routes, or Clearing. Speak to your school adviser and check each university policy carefully.
Final thought
Use this calculator to estimate where you currently stand, then move from estimate to action: check exact course requirements, identify grade gaps, and focus revision where it matters most. A clear plan can be the difference between hoping and knowing.