Getting into University with a BTEC

How are BTECs different from A levels?

Like A levels, BTECs can be studied in school or college. A levels are available in more traditional, academic subjects. BTECs are available in subjects that relate to broad job sectors.

BTECs are assessed through regular coursework, projects and some tests. A levels are assessed through exams taken at the end of the course.

Are BTECs equivalent to A levels?

To get into university, you need a level 3 qualification. A levels are all level 3, but BTECs are available at different levels. Level 3 BTECs are called BTEC Nationals.

BTEC Nationals come in different sizes, and these are broadly equivalent to different numbers of A levels.

Here are some examples:

• BTEC Extended Diploma – equivalent to 3 A levels
• BTEC Diploma – equivalent to 2 A levels
• BTEC Foundation Diploma – equivalent to 1.5 A levels
• BTEC Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma – equivalent to 1 A level
• BTEC Certificate – equivalent to 0.5 A levels

It’s possible to study BTECs and A levels at the same time. 

Do many students go to university with a BTEC?

Yes, they do! Over 100,000 students enter higher education with a BTEC every year.

Do all universities accept BTECs?

Most universities accept BTECs for most of their courses. This includes most competitive Russell Group universities, like the University of Exeter.

Please note: some courses may require a specific A level in addition to your BTEC. Others may require specific BTEC units.

It’s essential to check entry requirements for the specific course you’re interested in. At the University of Exeter, we include BTEC entry requirements on our course pages. If you’re ever unsure about whether your BTEC is accepted by a university, contact their admissions office and ask. 

What BTEC grades do I need to get into uni?

This varies between different universities and degree courses.

BTECs and A levels are graded using different systems. The UCAS tariff gives some A level and BTEC grades an equivalent number of points. However, not all universities use the tariff and therefore may value them differently. Again, it’s important to check the exact entry requirements for your desired course.

At the university of Exeter, our typical offers for the BTEC Extended Diploma range from D*DD to DDM. There’s more information about general entry requirements on our website.

Like many universities, we also make contextual offers. This means that if you meet certain eligibility criteria, we may make an offer which is lower than our typical entry requirements.

Does it matter what BTEC subject I’ve studied?

Again, this varies between different degree courses.

BTECs come in 14 different subject areas. However, that doesn’t mean that BTEC students are limited to 14 subject areas at university. There are many university courses that don’t have subject-specific requirements.

Will a BTEC prepare me well for university study?

This can depend on what BTEC you’re studying and what university course you want to do.

Degrees are often assessed in a variety of ways, including coursework and practical work. This is similar to BTECs, so in that sense, you may be well prepared. On the other hand, if there are a lot of exams in your university course, it may be helpful to learn some new revision techniques.

The good news is that universities will usually support you with academic skills. The University of Exeter Study Zone offers resources, drop-ins and workshops to help with academic writing, referencing, revision and more.

Anything else I need to know?

Yes! When inputting your qualifications into the UCAS form, there are a lot of BTEC courses to choose from. Many have similar titles, which can be confusing. Do check with your school/college and make sure you’re choosing the correct qualification. If you put the wrong title, there’s risk you could miss out on an offer from your chosen universities.

Finally, as well as the academic support mentioned above, universities can provide other types of support for students as they apply and transition to university. At the University of Exeter, our Discover University platform offers information, advice and guidance for prospective students and their parents/carers. We also offer a range of wellbeing and widening participation support.