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Information, Advice and sources of support for young people in Suffolk

What are T-levels?

Posted by on 12 October 2022

T Levels are an alternative to A levels, apprenticeships and other 16 to 19 courses. Equivalent in size to 3 A levels, a T Level focuses on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study or apprenticeships.

Each T Level includes an in-depth industry placement that lasts at least 45 days. Students get valuable experience in the workplace; employers get early sight of the new talent in their industry.

80% CLASSROOM, 20% WORK

T Level students spend 80% of the course in their learning environment, gaining the skills that employers need. The other 20% is a meaningful industry placement, where they put these skills into action.

Students who complete their T Level will get a nationally recognised certificate which will show their overall grade and a breakdown of what they have achieved.

The T Level certificate will include:

  • an overall grade for the T Level, shown as pass, merit, distinction or distinction*
  • a separate grade for the core component, using A* to E
  • a separate grade for each occupational specialism, shown as pass, merit or distinction

It will also confirm that the student has:

  • completed the industry placement
  • met any additional mandatory requirements

Entry to higher education and UCAS tariff points

T Levels will provide several progression options for students. These include skilled employment, an apprenticeship and higher education.

To help T Level students progress into higher education, UCAS tariff points will be allocated to T Levels.

UCAS points will only be allocated to the overall T Level grade. Students must achieve at least an overall pass grade to receive UCAS points.

UCAS tariff pointsT Level overall gradeA level
168Distinction* (A* on the core and distinction in the occupational specialism)AAA*
144DistinctionAAA
120MeritBBB
96Pass (C or above on the core)CCC
72Pass (D or E on the core)DDD
Where can I find out more?

You can find out more about T-levels on the government website T Levels | The Next Level Qualification, alternatively ask your careers adviser at school for more information.

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