Qualifications explained

Choosing the right course is an important step for your future. At West Notts College, we offer a wide range of qualifications to suit different goals – whether you want to progress to university, move into employment, or start an apprenticeship.

Different qualifications sit at different levels, and some can earn you UCAS points, which are used by universities when making offers. The amount of points you gain depends on the type of qualification and the grade you achieve.
Our quick guide explains the main types of qualifications, what the levels mean, how long they take, and where they can lead.

Types of qualifications

GCSEs

Level 2
Duration: 1-2 years
GCSEs are the main qualifications usually studied by students aged 14–16, but they are open to anyone aged 14 or over. They are academic courses assessed mainly by exams.
GCSEs are graded 9–1 (with 9 being the highest). A grade 4 is considered a standard pass, roughly equivalent to the old grade C.
T Levels

Level 3
Duration: 2 years
T Levels are full-time qualifications equivalent to three A Levels. They combine classroom learning with a 45-day work placement, giving you practical skills as well as academic knowledge. They’re ideal if you want a clear route into skilled employment, higher apprenticeships, or university.
A Levels

Level 3
Duration: 2 years
A Levels are traditional academic qualifications taken after GCSEs. Each subject is studied in depth, and most students choose three subjects (four if they have exceptionally high entry qualifications) and (sometimes two subjects combined with a vocational course, depending on career goals). A Levels are a common route into university and higher-level study.
Vocational courses

Entry Level - Level 3
Duration: 1-2 years
Vocational courses focus on practical skills and knowledge for a specific career sector, such as construction, health, or business. They’re a great option if you already know the industry you’d like to work in.
Many vocational courses are available as NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications), which you complete unit by unit, building up your skills and progressing through the levels. Entry requirements vary, but there are options for all ages and abilities.
Apprenticeships

Level 2 - Level 7
Duration: Various, depending on the level and your experience
Apprenticeships allow you to gain a nationally recognised qualification while earning a wage and building real work experience. Most apprentices split their time between working for an employer and studying at college.
You can start an apprenticeship at age 16 (if you’re not in full-time education) and progress all the way to degree level while building your career.

Levels explained
At West Notts College, you can choose from a wide range of courses at different levels. The level you start at will depend on your GCSE results, previous qualifications, or work experience. Each course has its own entry requirements, which you can find on our course pages online.

Entry Level

Entry Level qualifications are designed to help you build confidence, develop essential skills, and prepare for further learning. They’re ideal if you’re returning to education or want to take your first steps towards a recognised qualification.
No entry requirements
Recognised across the UK
Often called Certificates or Awards.
Examples include:
Functional Skills
Certificate of Achievement.
Level 1 (Beginner)

Level 1 courses give you an introduction to work-related skills and practical tasks. They’re a good starting point if you didn’t achieve the GCSE results you were hoping for, or if you’re looking for a more hands-on route into education and employment.
Examples include:
GCSEs and Functional skills
BTEC Level 1 Award, Certificate or Diploma
Supported Internship
NVQ Level 1.
Level 2 (Intermediate)

Level 2 is an intermediate stage that provides a solid understanding of a subject. You’ll complete a range of tasks and assessments, usually with some guidance from your tutors. Level 2 qualifications can help you move into employment, apprenticeships, or further study.
Examples include:
Functional Skills
Intermediate Apprenticeship
Supported Internship
BTEC First Diploma/Level 2
NVQ Level 2.
Level 3 (Advanced)

Level 3 qualifications are equivalent to A Levels and are a common route into university, higher apprenticeships, or skilled employment. They involve more advanced study and show that you can work independently while developing detailed subject knowledge.
Examples include:
A Levels
T Levels
Advanced Apprenticeship
BTEC Extended Diploma.
Level 4

Level 4 is equivalent to the first year of university study. These qualifications are designed for those who want to continue learning at a higher level without necessarily committing to a full degree right away.
Options include:
Higher National Certificate (HNC)
Higher National Diploma (HND)
Higher Apprenticeships.
At our Derby Road campus, you’ll also find Nottingham Trent University in Mansfield, which means you can progress seamlessly into higher-level study right here at West Notts College.

UCAS points
The below table displays what UCAS points you are awarded with, depending on the grade achieved and the type of qualification you complete.

UCAS Points
A Level Grades
BTEC Grades
T Level Grades

168
A A A*
D D D*
D*

160
A A A
D D D

A* A A
D* D D

A A A
D D D
D

136
A A B

128
A B B
D D M

B B B

112
B B C
D M M

B C C

96
C C C
M M M
P (A* - C)

88
C C D