International Qualifications
Understand how your qualifications compare to UK standards. Learn about A-Level equivalents, UCAS tariff points, and pathway options.
See how qualifications from your country compare to UK A-Levels.
Class 12 (CBSE/ISC)
Gaokao / Senior High School
High School Diploma + SAT/AP
WAEC/NECO
HSSC / A-Levels
HSC / A-Levels
High School Diploma
IB Diploma
Entry requirements vary significantly by course. Here are typical requirements for popular subjects.
| Course | A-Level | IB | Required Subjects | Additional |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Medicine Most competitive entry. 10+ applicants per place. | A*AA - AAA | 38-40 | Chemistry required, Biology preferred | UCAT/BMAT, work experience, interview |
Law Essay-writing skills important. | A*AA - AAB | 36-39 | No specific subjects, essay-based preferred | LNAT for some universities |
Engineering Strong maths skills essential. | AAA - ABB | 34-38 | Maths required, Physics usually required | Some require Further Maths |
Computer Science Problem-solving skills tested at interview. | A*AA - ABB | 34-38 | Maths required, Computing helpful | Programming experience valued |
Business/Economics Quantitative skills important. | AAB - BBB | 32-36 | Maths required for Economics | Some require Economics A-Level |
Arts & Humanities Wide reading and analytical skills valued. | AAB - BBC | 32-36 | Related humanities subject helpful | Strong personal statement, portfolio for arts |
Some universities state requirements in tariff points rather than specific grades.
💡 Example: AAB at A-Level = 48 + 48 + 40 = 136 tariff points
If your qualifications aren't directly equivalent to UK standards, foundation programmes offer a pathway to degree study.
Guaranteed progression with required grades
Entry to Year 2 of degree
Full university choice
UK university grades work differently. Here's how they compare.
| UK Grade | Percentage | US GPA | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Class | 70%+ | 3.7-4.0 | Exceptional achievement |
| Upper Second (2:1) | 60-69% | 3.3-3.69 | Good honour; common requirement |
| Lower Second (2:2) | 50-59% | 2.7-3.29 | Standard pass for many purposes |
| Third Class | 40-49% | 2.0-2.69 | Minimum pass |
⚠️ UK grading is strict by international standards. A 70% (First) in the UK often equates to 90%+ in other systems.
Don't worry - there are several options if your qualifications don't directly meet the requirements.
Many universities offer foundation programmes that prepare you for degree-level study and guarantee progression.
Universities often accept a range of qualifications. Contact admissions to discuss your specific situation.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are designed for mature students and are widely accepted.
A compelling personal statement and relevant experience can sometimes compensate for slightly lower grades.