In the majority of cases BTECs are taken by learners aged 16 plus, and usually alongside other qualifications like GCSEs.
BTEC levels?
BTEC qualifications come in seven levels ranging from BTEC Introductory Diplomas and Certificates to BTEC Advanced Diplomas, Certificates and Awards.
In each level, BTECs are available in a range of sizes, taking different amounts of time to complete.
What are the differences between each level?
Level 1 - BTEC Introductory Diplomas and Certificates.
This gives you basic knowledge and skills for a certain job.
Level 2 - BTEC First Diplomas and Certificates
Level 2 provides you with knowledge and understanding of a subject and the ability to perform a number of tasks with some guidance or supervision. It can be very useful to refer to when applying for jobs.
Level 3 - BTEC Diplomas, Certificates and Awards, and BTEC Nationals
Level 3 gives you the ability to gain or apply a range of knowledge, skills and understanding, at a detailed level. It could be appropriate if you plan to go to university, work independently, or (in some cases) supervise and train others in their field of work.
Level 4 - BTEC Professional Diplomas, Certificates and Awards
Level 4 is specialist learning, involving detailed analysis of a high level of information and knowledge in an area of work or study. It can be appropriate for people working in technical and professional jobs, and/or managing and developing others.
Level 5 - BTEC Professional Diplomas, Certificates and Awards
Level 5 helps you deepen your knowledge and understanding of an area of work or study, so you can respond to complex problems and situations. It involves a high level of work expertise and competence in managing and training others. It could be appropriate for people working as higher grade technicians, professionals or managers.
Level 6 - BTEC Advanced Professional Diplomas, Certificates and Awards
Level 6 provides specialist, high-level knowledge for an area of work or study, to enable you to use your own ideas and research in response to complex problems and situations. It could be appropriate for people working as knowledge-based professionals or in professional management positions.
Level 7 - BTEC Advanced Professional Diplomas, Certificates and Awards
Level 7 is a highly developed and complex levels of knowledge, to develop original responses to complicated and unpredictable problems and situations. Can be appropriate for senior professionals and managers.
How many UCAS points do I get with a BTEC?
You can check your UCAS tariff points using a calculator or on this website.
