Can I do a degree with two A Levels?

by Anita Naik

Dropping one of your A Levels or not making it through your mocks in one subject doesn't mean you can no longer get a degree or go to university. While most universities require three A-levels, there are things you can do that will help you get into university with two A Levels.

These range from vocational qualifications, T Levels, work experience, and diplomas that count towards your UCAS points. The other way is to bridge the gap by taking a different route to university. Here's what you need to know.

Your UCAS score

A good UCAS score depends on the university and course you're applying for, but generally, a score of 120 points or more is considered competitive for many universities. Highly selective programs and Russell Group universities require 144 points or higher scores.

When applying to universities, you'll often see their entry requirements listed in terms of UCAS points, which can help you gauge whether your qualifications meet their criteria.

A Levels: Each A Level grade is assigned points:

A* = 56 points

A = 48 points

B = 40 points

C = 32 points

D = 24 points

E = 16 points

Vocational qualifications like BTECs and other vocational courses also contribute points, often on a similar scale.

Why are two A-levels a problem?

Your total UCAS points are calculated by adding the points from your best three A Levels (or equivalent qualifications) together. If you have dropped an A-level or been taken off a course due to a poor mock mark, the most you can score is 112 points, with two A* A Levels, so as most university courses ask for more, you will not have enough points.

Take on an AS Level

AS Level grades count for fewer points than an A Level, but you can achieve an AS Level in a year. This will then add significant points to your UCAS grades.

A = 20 points

B = 16 points

C = 12 points

D = 10 points

E = 6 points

Ask your school what's possible for you to take at AS level, and try to choose something that aligns with work you have already started and the degree you want to apply for.

Write an EPQ

An Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is worth up to 28 UCAS points and can help if you're only doing A Levels and want to go to university. The grading scale for the EPQ is as follows:

A* = 28 points

A = 24 points

B = 20 points

C = 16 points

D = 12 points

E = 6 points

Apply for a foundation year

Post A Levels, you can apply for a foundation year. This differs from a foundation degree, a standalone qualification (see below). A foundation year gives you access to a degree course (in the same or similar subject), while a foundation degree is a standalone qualification. To apply for a foundation year, you must go through UCAS and usually need UCAS points of 48 and upwards.

Apply for a foundation degree

A foundation degree is the equivalent of two-thirds of a bachelor's degree, a Higher National Diploma (HND) and a Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE). Again, you apply through UCAS, and many courses ask for UCAS points, starting at 45 and A Levels CC.

Are a foundation degree and Level 5 apprenticeship the same?

A Level 5 apprenticeship and a foundation degree are not the same but have some similarities.

Level 5 Apprenticeship combines practical work experience with academic study and typically lasts 1 to 2 years. It's designed to provide specific vocational skills and knowledge relevant to a particular job role. It is equivalent to the first two years of a bachelor's degree and often includes a formal qualification, such as a diploma.

A foundation degree is an academic qualification focused on higher education. It usually takes 2 years full-time to complete and combines academic study with practical skills, often linked to specific career paths. With an additional year of study, it can be topped up to a full bachelor's degree.

Further reading

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