University Entry Checker
Enter your grades and a university course requirement to see instantly whether you qualify, how close you are, and what you still need.
How This Checker Works
UK universities specify entry requirements in one of three formats: grade combinations (like ABB), total UCAS Tariff Points (like 128 points), or IB scores (like IB 36). This tool checks your grades against any of those formats and tells you clearly whether you qualify, how close you are, and what gap remains.
Your grades are sorted highest first, then compared position by position
Met = All required grades are matched or exceeded by your actual grades
// For UCAS points requirements:
Your UCAS points total >= Required points total = Met
// For IB score requirements:
Your IB total >= Required IB total = Met
What UK University Entry Requirements Actually Mean
Entry requirements are communicated differently depending on the university and the course. Understanding which format a requirement is in matters before using this checker.
Grade combination requirements
The most common format at Russell Group and pre-92 universities. “AAB” means three A Levels at those grades. “A*AB” requires an A* in at least one subject. Universities often list the grades in descending order and may specify which subjects must carry which grades. This checker compares your grades sorted highest first against the requirement.
UCAS points requirements
More common at post-92 and newer universities. “128 UCAS points” means your qualifications must add up to at least that total. This format is more flexible across different qualification types (A Levels, BTECs, Scottish Highers, IB). It is also often used when the university accepts a range of qualification mixes.
IB-specific requirements
Universities with significant international student populations often quote IB score requirements directly. “IB 36” means a total Diploma score of at least 36 points. Some courses also specify minimum Higher Level grades alongside the total.
Table of Truth: Entry Requirement Scenarios
| Your Grades | Requirement | Result | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| A, A, B (136 pts) | AAB (136 pts) | Met exactly | 0 points |
| A, B, B (128 pts) | AAB (136 pts) | Not met | 8 points short |
| A*, A, B (152 pts) | AAA (144 pts) | Met (exceeded) | +8 points above |
| BTEC DMM (112 pts) | 128 UCAS points | Not met | 16 points short |
| BTEC DDD (144 pts) | 128 UCAS points | Met | +16 points above |
| IB 38 | IB 36 | Met | +2 points above |
| IB 34 | IB 36 | Not met | 2 points short |
What Happens If You Do Not Meet the Requirement
Not meeting an entry requirement does not necessarily end your chances. Here are the realistic options.
Clearing
Clearing opens on A Level results day in August and stays open until most places are filled (typically October). If you did not meet your offer, or if you chose not to apply before results day, Clearing allows you to contact universities directly about available places. Many universities lower their requirements in Clearing for courses with unfilled spots.
Insurance choice
Your UCAS insurance choice is a course with a lower entry requirement than your firm choice. It should be a course you would genuinely be happy to attend. If you do not meet your firm offer, your insurance offer automatically activates. Set it carefully.
Foundation year
Many universities offer integrated foundation years for students who fall below degree-level entry requirements. These typically require around 64 to 96 UCAS points. After completing the foundation year with a passing mark, students progress directly onto Year 1 of the degree.
Resit
If you fall just short of your requirement (one grade below in one subject, or a small points gap), resitting the exam in the next series may be worth considering. Use the Resit Grade Improvement Calculator on this site to model whether it is realistic.
