UCAS Tariff Points for Access to HE Diplomas

UCAS Tariff points are a numerical system used by universities and colleges to compare qualifications for entry onto higher education courses. Different qualifications and grades are assigned different Tariff point values. Many universities use these points as part of their entry requirements, although some courses may ask for specific qualifications or grades instead of, or in addition to, a Tariff point score.

For learners studying an Access to HE Diploma, the number of UCAS Tariff points achieved depends on their grade profile and can range from 48 to 144 points.

access-to-he-students

How many UCAS points is an Access to HE Diploma worth?

The number of UCAS Tariff points awarded for an Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma depends on the grade profile you achieved and can range from 48 to 144 UCAS points.

Your total UCAS points are calculated based on the number of credits achieved at Distinction, Merit and Pass. The higher the number of Distinction and Merit credits achieved, the higher your overall UCAS Tariff points score will be.

An Access to HE Diploma UCAS Tariff points score can be used by universities and colleges as part of their entry requirements. For example, an Access to HE Diploma with 45 credits achieved at Distinction attracts 144 UCAS points, which is equivalent to three A Levels at Grade A under the current UCAS Tariff system. For a full breakdown of grade profiles and UCAS points, please refer to the official UCAS Tariff tables.

Explore UCAS Tariff Tables Guide

How to calculate UCAS points for an Access course

If you’re wondering how many UCAS points your Access to HE Diploma is worth, follow these simple steps:

Calculate your UCAS points for an Access course
Step 1: Confirm your qualification

Check that your qualification is a QAA-recognised Access to Higher Education Diploma.

Step 2: Review your grade profile

Look at the number of credits you achieved at:

  • Distinction
  • Merit
  • Pass

Your combination of grades determines your overall UCAS Tariff score.

Step 3: Use the UCAS Tariff Calculator

Enter your qualification and grade profile into the official UCAS Tariff Calculator to find your total points.

UCAS Tariff Calculator

Step 4: Compare your points with course requirements

Check the entry requirements for your chosen university course. While UCAS points are important, some universities may also specify:

  • Particular Access to HE subject pathways
  • GCSE requirements
  • Subject-specific credits
  • Additional admissions criteria

Access to HE UCAS points by grade profile

The exact number of UCAS points depends on your individual grade profile. For example, an eligible Access to HE Diploma can be worth as few as 48 UCAS points, while a mid-range score of 96 points may be achieved through a combination of Merit and Distinction grades. A high-achieving grade profile with a strong proportion of Distinction credits can result in 120 UCAS points, while the maximum 144 UCAS points is awarded to learners who achieve 45 credits at Distinction.

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Using Access to HE UCAS points for university entry

Many universities across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland accept Access to HE Diplomas as an entry qualification. However, UCAS points are only one part of the admissions process. Entry requirements vary by institution and course. Some providers make offers based on:

  • Specific numbers of Distinction, Merit or Pass credits
  • Achievement in particular units or subject areas
  • Relevant work experience
  • GCSE English, Maths or Science qualifications

Before applying, always check the latest entry requirements published by your chosen university.

UCAS Tariff Calculator and Helpful Resources

UCAS provides a range of tools to help learners understand their qualifications and calculate their Tariff points.

To help Access to HE students identify progression opportunities and potential career pathways, QAA also offers the Career Coach platform.

Career Coach

Career Coach can help learners explore careers, identify qualification routes and find Access to HE Diplomas aligned to their future goals.

Career Coach

Frequently Asked Questions
What are UCAS Tariff points?

UCAS Tariff points are a system used to assign numerical values to qualifications commonly used for university entry. Different qualifications and grades attract different numbers of points.

How do UCAS points work for university admissions?

Universities may use UCAS points as part of their entry requirements. Applicants can compare the total points from their qualifications against the points required for a particular course.

How many UCAS points do I have?

To find out how many UCAS points you have, use the UCAS Tariff Calculator and enter your qualification type and grade profile.

Is an Access to HE Diploma equivalent to A Levels?

Access to HE Diplomas are Level 3 qualifications and are widely accepted by universities as an alternative route into higher education. Although Access to HE Diplomas require the same level of academic demand as other level 3 qualifications, they are not directly equivalent to a specific number of A Levels, and universities may set different entry requirements.

Can GCSEs count towards UCAS points?

Most GCSE qualifications do not contribute UCAS Tariff points, universities may still require GCSEs in specific subjects such as English and Mathematics.

How long can I use an Access to HE Diploma for UCAS applications?

Access to HE Diplomas do not expire, but individual universities may have their own policies regarding how recently qualifications must have been achieved. Always check with your chosen university.

Do universities accept Access to HE Diplomas through UCAS?

Yes. Access to HE Diplomas are recognised and accepted by many universities and higher education providers throughout the UK. Acceptance and entry requirements vary by institution and course.

Do I need GCSE English and Mathematics as well as an Access to HE Diploma?

Entry requirements vary by institution and course. Some institutions will require attainment of certain GCSEs, alternatively some may just consider the units within your Access to HE Diploma. It is important to always check the latest entry requirements published by your chosen university before applying.