Understanding University Entry Requirements

Entry requirements tell you what a university is typically looking for in a successful applicant. They are set by each institution, can vary between courses, and may change from one year of entry to the next. Understanding them early helps you build a realistic shortlist and avoid surprises later.

Typical offers and grade requirements

Most course pages list a 'typical offer', for example, a set of A level grades, an International Baccalaureate points score, or UCAS Tariff points. This is a guide to the level an applicant would usually need, not a guarantee of an offer. Popular courses may receive many more qualified applicants than they have places.

Universities also accept a wide range of other qualifications, including BTECs, Scottish Highers, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and many international qualifications. If yours is not listed, contact the admissions team directly.

Subject requirements

Some courses require or prefer specific subjects. Medicine, engineering and many science degrees, for example, often require particular subjects at advanced level. Check these carefully, as meeting the overall grades is not enough if a required subject is missing.

English-language requirements

If English is not your first language, you will usually need to show evidence of your English ability. Universities commonly accept tests such as IELTS Academic, often with a minimum overall score and minimum scores in each component. Some courses set higher requirements than others, and certain previous qualifications may exempt you.

Additional requirements

• Admissions tests for some competitive courses.
• Interviews, auditions or portfolios for subjects such as medicine, art, design and music.
• Relevant work experience, particularly for healthcare and teaching courses.
• Background checks for courses involving work with children or vulnerable adults.

Conditional and unconditional offers

A conditional offer means you will be accepted if you meet certain conditions, usually achieving particular grades. An unconditional offer means you have already met the requirements. Read every condition carefully, including any English-language or document deadlines.

Contextual admissions

Many universities consider the context in which you achieved your grades, such as the school you attended or your personal circumstances, and may make reduced offers to some applicants. Each university's policy is published on its website.

Admissions decisions are always made by the institution. Use UCAS and each university's current course page for the year you plan to start, and contact admissions teams if anything is unclear.