Essential Entry Requirements for UK Universities: What You Need to Know

University entry requirements are more than just boxes to tick—they’re your first step toward choosing the right program and building a successful academic journey. From qualifications to personal portfolios, each requirement helps universities identify students who are ready to make the most of their courses.

If you’re ready to start exploring your options, our advisors can help you navigate entry requirements and choose the best path forward.

Understanding these requirements will empower you to make informed choices, apply confidently, and open doors to the courses that fit you best.

What are the university entry requirements?

Entry requirements can vary significantly depending on the university, subject, and course. Here’s a breakdown of what you might encounter:

• Qualifications – Academic achievements like A-levels or equivalent.
• UCAS Tariff Points – Points awarded based on your grades.
• Admissions Tests – For specific programs or universities.
• Interviews – Especially for competitive courses.
• Portfolios – For creative programs to showcase your work.
• General Requirements – Such as DBS checks for certain fields.

Key entry requirements explained

Qualifications

Most UK universities focus on post-16 qualifications, like A-levels or BTECs, as they represent your most recent academic achievements Qualifications required by most universities include:

• A-levels, 
• Advanced Highers 
• Btecs
• GCSEs

Be sure to check the course descriptions online, as qualification requirements can differ between programs.

International and EU students’ qualifications

Even if course descriptions list only UK qualifications, international and EU students are very welcome! Just provide an English translation of your diploma along with your application, and you’ll be all set to apply with confidence.

UCAS Tariff points

Many universities use the Ucas Tariff points system which converts grades into Ucas points. The higher your grades, the more points you’ll have, giving you an advantage in applications. Many higher education institutions prefer UCAS points and find it easier to compare students’ grades between different qualifications.

Admission test

Some universities require an admission test. This is common for certain universities and more competitive courses. Not many institutions require an admission test as an entry requirement so check if you need to sit one. The score achieved on the admission test is counted with the application by admission teams.

Interview

As for Admission tests, university entry requirements may include an interview for certain universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, and for competitive courses like Medicine or Law. Interviews are another way to accept the best candidates for these courses.

Portfolio

Creative courses such as Art, Design or Photography may require a portfolio of your works as an entry requirement. University may require applicants to upload their works or to present a portfolio.

General entry requirements

There are further requirements to meet which are necessary for most universities such as:

• DBS check – check of criminal records
• Fitness to practice check – required for medicine studies

Entry requirements for international and EU students

For students outside the UK, there may be a few extra steps:

• English Language test – English language tests (eg. IELTS, TOEFL..) prove that candidates are able to understand and communicate in English and ready to thrive in an English-speaking academic environment.
• Student Visa – Most international students need a study visa to study in the UK. The student visa application must be made before coming to the UK and within 6 months before your course start date.

Note: European students with settled or pre-settled status do not need a visa.

Mature students

For mature students (aged 21 and over) and students with a non-traditional education background, university entry requirements are usually more flexible. Universities often recognize valuable life or work experience, even if you don’t meet the standard qualifications.

Part-time students

Entry requirements for part-time and flexible study programs can differ from traditional, full-time degrees. Some part-time courses don’t have specific entry requirements, while others may offer ways to assess or prepare candidates for higher education studies. Reach out to your chosen university to find out more about their requirements.

What if you don’t meet university entry requirements

Every university treats entry requirements differently. Admission teams may consider mainly the qualifications, personal statements or references in student applications or they may take a more flexible approach towards entry requirements.

If you’re unsure to meet the entry requirements, good advice is to apply for a mix of choices including a choice with lower entry requirements and a more competitive course with higher entry requirements.

This approach is valid also when working towards A-levels or equivalent qualifications and expecting lower grades than your predicted grades.

Grades from international qualifications

To make sure that grades from your international qualifications meet UK standards you can contact UK ENIC (the UK National Information Centre) and see how your grades compare to English equivalent qualifications.

Applying to university without qualifications?

If you don’t have the standard qualifications, there are still options to university. You may be considered if:

• You have relevant skills, experience, and passion/interest for the course.
• You apply for a foundation year or year zero program.
• You complete an Access to Higher Education Diploma.

Finding the right course for you

Ready to start? Use the UCAS course finder to browse programs that match your interests and check each course’s specific entry requirements.

If you’re unsure, our advisors at EU Students in the UK can help guide you through the process, from selecting the best course to navigating the application.

Let Us Support Your Application

At EU STUDENTS IN THE UK, we’re dedicated to helping international and EU students through the entire university application process. Get our advice to find the right course and set you up for a successful future in the UK. Get in touch to start your journey today!