Can I Go to University with No A Levels?

Going to university is a step towards many careers, and A Levels are traditionally thought of as the only way to access university study in the UK. While this was formerly the case, over time, it has become possible to access universities without A Levels. As it stands, in 2025, you’ll find multiple ways to get there, including studying a range of vocational qualifications, accessing university courses, gaining significant experience, and working towards a degree through a foundation year degree. 

Use this guide to discover different options for study, along with how to determine university entry requirements at a university that suits you. 

Can I go to university with no A levels?

It is possible to go to university with no A Levels, and it is becoming increasingly common as universities realise that academic education does not suit everyone and isn’t the only way to assess people’s capabilities. It’s possible to get a place at a university with various other qualifications, with many accessing vocational qualifications or a mixture of both vocational and academic courses. 

Do all universities accept alternative qualifications?

Most universities accept alternative qualifications, such as BTECs and other vocational courses, but not all. Some universities grant access based on UCAS tariff points awarded for various courses, while others stipulate specific qualifications such as A Levels. Some more prestigious universities, such as Oxford and Cambridge and other Russell Group universities, accept only A levels for some courses. However, this does vary from course to course. For some courses, you may gain access to vocational qualifications such as a BTEC, often at a level 3, combined with academic A level qualifications. 

Alternatives to A Levels

You’ll find several options when applying for university, even without A Levels. More and more universities are seeing the value in alternative qualifications and also providing options for distance learning to be more inclusive. 

BTEC National

A widely accepted A level alternative is the BTEC National, a level 3 vocational qualification offered in various sectors. A BTEC supports you to develop hands-on practical skills along with theoretical knowledge. If you know what sector you want to work in but don’t yet know what you want to do specifically, BTECs are excellent options as they are industry-specific, allowing you to develop various skills.

T Levels 

T Levels are a relatively new qualification, launched in 2020 [1]. One T Level is the equivalent of three A Levels and is a two-year vocational alternative that includes a 45-day industry placement. You can currently choose from more than 20 T Levels. 

International Baccalaureate

Another option for entry to university if you don’t have A Levels and you studied abroad is the International Baccalaureate. This qualification is globally recognised, so many universities will look at this if you didn’t have the option of A Levels in the country you studied in. 

Experience 

In some instances, you may be able to access a university based on your experience. If you have a solid background in an industry and lots of professional experience, universities may accept you into some courses. However, it’s unlikely that this will be the case with no education at all. You may have to complete a foundation year, and GCSE grades are usually factored in, along with possible admission tests. 

Access to Higher Education Diploma

The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma could be for you if you decide to go to university but did not take A Levels or one of the equivalent options. The diploma comes in various vocational course subjects, giving you a qualification equal to A Levels that you can study online, on your schedule, within a two-year time limit. 

Foundation year

If you haven’t got A Levels, GCSEs, or equivalent qualifications, or you’ve been out of education for a while, universities may ask you to complete a foundation year. A foundation year is an extra year at the beginning of a bachelor’s degree course to prepare you for what’s to come. A foundation year is also an option if you don’t get the expected A Levels results. Not all universities offer foundation years, so do your research to know where to apply. 

How to find out university entry requirements

Each university is different regarding entry requirements for each course it offers, so do your research when making your university choices to ensure you can meet the requirements. Some universities ask for specific qualifications and list those they accept, while others base their requirements solely on UCAS tariff points, which UCAS awards for various courses and grades. 

You may also have to pass an admission test or attend an interview to meet qualifications and UCAS points requirements. You can check the UCAS website for information on UCAS tariff points if you’re unsure what your qualifications are worth but also check with each university to see what it accepts.

How to prepare for an A level exam

If A Levels are your first choice, they are heavily focused on exams as a way to grade you. With this in mind, you must prepare to get the best mark possible. Follow our steps below to put together a strategy to study.

1. Prepare a schedule: Knowing what you will do and when is a big time saver and helps you feel organised and ready. Just make sure it is realistic to keep you motivated.

2. Find a technique that suits you: Revision is entirely personal. You may like to use revision cards or learn by writing lists. Do it your way.

3. Take breaks: Remember, rest is essential to do your best. Take regular breaks, stretch your legs, move your body, and get plenty of sleep.

4. Eat well: Fuel your brain with healthy food for energy, and hydrate yourself with plenty of water.

5. Minimise distractions: Find somewhere quiet to work with no disturbances, and switch off your phone. 

6. Reward yourself: Keep yourself going by setting goals with small rewards when you achieve them. 

7. Don’t stress: Stress is counterproductive. Please ensure you look after yourself and ask for help when needed.

Get started with Coursera.

If you are considering studying for a degree, consider looking at an online degree course that allows you to study from the comfort of your home on a flexible schedule. You’ll find various options, including the BSc in Computer Science, delivered by the University of London on Coursera.