CONTENTS

1. What is a BTEC?

2. What are the different types of BTEC?

3. Who are they for? 

4. How do they work?

5. What are the entry requirements for a BTEC?

6. Can you get into uni with a BTEC?

7. What else can you do with your BTEC?

8. Are BTECs changing?

What is a BTEC?

A BTEC is an alternative qualification to A Levels and is short for Business and Technology Education Council. BTECs have more of a work-related focus, combining subject theory with practical learning. More than 20% of students who go into higher education have a BTEC.

You can combine a BTEC with A Levels, so it doesn’t have to be an either/or scenario.

What are the benefits of studying a BTEC?

BTECs are a great option if you already know what area of work you’d like to explore, like health and social care, business or engineering. They prepare you for the workplace, giving you valuable industry experience and increasing your employability.

A BTEC might suit you if you’re someone who learns best through practical application.

What are the different types of BTEC?

BTECs are available for all stages of learning, from BTEC Entry Level to BTEC Professional.

There are three BTECs aimed at learners aged 16+ and equivalent to A Level (level 3):

• BTEC Nationals are the best-known, available in a wide range of subjects. This qualification is recognised by many universities if you want to do an undergraduate degree
• BTEC Technicals will be introduced after September 2025, and are designed to meet the needs of industry; some may require you to be over 19 years old
• BTEC Foundation Diploma is a specialist qualification in Art and Design and Media Practice. Although this is a level 3–4 award, it may require a level 3 qualification in art for entry

BTEC Firsts and BTEC Tech Awards are at level 1–2, similar to GCSEs. They enable you to go on to an apprenticeship, further study or a job.

Who are they for?

BTEC level 2 qualifications are available to secondary school students. They typically start at Key Stage 4 and students take them alongside or as an alternative to GCSEs.

Students can take BTEC level 3 qualifications after their GCSEs or similar qualifications. Post-16 students can choose from a range of courses that align with their interests and career aspirations.

How do they work?

BTEC level 3 courses are available at a range of places such as schools with sixth forms, sixth form colleges, or further education colleges.

It’s a good idea to do some research on the different courses available in your local area, checking content, duration and entry requirements. Once you’ve found a course, you usually apply via the institution’s website. They will then notify you to say whether your application has been successful. If you accept their offer, there’ll be an enrolment process to follow before starting the course.

Processes and deadlines vary from one college to another. Do contact the institution’s admissions office if you have any queries.

How are BTEC diplomas assessed?

BTECs have a different assessment method compared to GCSEs or A Levels. The grading scale, starting with the highest possible grade, is:

• Starred Distinction/Distinction Star (D*)
• Distinction (D)
• Merit (M)
• Pass (P)

If you're taking a BTEC worth two A Levels (such as a BTEC National Diploma), you'll receive a result made up of two BTEC grades, for example D*D, or DM. If you complete a BTEC equivalent to several A Levels (a BTEC National Extended Diploma), the system will show it in a similar way, for example DDD or MMP.

What are the entry requirements for a BTEC?

You’ll usually need up to five GCSEs at grade 9 to 4, or A* to C to study a BTEC National. Entry requirements do vary by school or college and the BTEC course you’re interested in. 

Can you get into uni with a BTEC?

Yes, more than 100,000 BTEC students apply to universities every year. But some institutions are more open to BTECs that others, so check this when doing your research. Especially if you’ve got your eye on a Russell Group university.

What else can you do with your BTEC?

BTECs are a versatile qualification. Instead of going to university, you might decide to get a job or do an apprenticeship. You could even continue with a higher-level BTEC qualification at level 4 or 5, to deepen your knowledge and skills in your chosen area.