Entry requirements
We consider a range of qualifications and experience when assessing your application. Whether you're coming from school, college, work or another route entirely, we help you find your way into higher education.
If you don't meet the exact entry requirements, don't be discouraged - come and talk to us. We look at the whole picture, including your achievements, potential, and life experience.
Your qualifications
We welcome all academic and vocational qualifications, including A-levels, BTECs, T Levels, Access to Higher Education Diplomas, and many others. You may also have relevant skills, training or work experience that we can consider.
Each course has its own entry requirements, so check your individual course page for details about grades, subjects or experience needed. Some courses also ask for an interview or portfolio as part of the process.
Find your individual course requirements
For international students, we accept a wide range of international qualifications. Please include full details of your qualifications when you apply so we can assess your eligibility. For more information or tailored advice, visit our international country pages or contact internationalenquiries@tees.ac.uk for advice.
If English isn't your first language, we also offer English language support to help you meet our entry requirements.
Understanding offers
When you apply, whether through UCAS or directly, we will make you either a conditional or unconditional offer.
Conditional offer
Will have clauses achieving particular grades in your studies, attending interviews or providing portfolios.
Unconditional offer
You've already achieved the qualifications and any other conditions needed for your course.
Contextual offers
Some conditional offers will include a reduced offer if you meet set criteria.
More about contextual offers
You can check how your qualifications translate into UCAS points using the UCAS Tariff Calculator.
UCAS tariff calculator
Undergraduate degrees
For most undergraduate courses, you'll normally need at least two A levels or an equivalent level 3 qualification, such as a BTEC, T Level or International Baccalaureate (IB). We welcome applicants with IB qualifications, including the full diploma programme and individual IB subjects that carry UCAS tariff points.
You may also need GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, particularly in English and maths. Some courses have specific subject or grade requirements, which are listed on individual course pages.
If you're applying to a course linked to a professional qualification, for example teaching, healthcare or law, there may be additional requirements set by that profession.
Degrees with a foundation year
For a degree with a foundation year, you usually need at least one A-level or equivalent Level 3 qualification. These courses are designed to prepare you for university study if you don't meet the standard entry requirements or want to build confidence in your subject area first.
Top-up degrees and advanced entry
If you've already completed a foundation degree or a HND, you may be able to join the final year of a degree and graduate with a full bachelor's qualification. We also consider applications for entry into Year 2 or Year 3 of some degrees, depending on your previous study and credits achieved.
Foundation degrees
Entry to a foundation degree is based on your ability to succeed. This can be shown through a mix of qualifications (such as A-levels, NVQs, BTECs or T levels) and any relevant work experience or training.
Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Diplomas (HNDs)
For a HNC, you normally need at least one A-level or an equivalent qualification. For a HND, you'll normally need at least two A-levels or an equivalent level 3 qualification. Other level 2 qualifications may be accepted as alternatives, and some courses may ask for additional entry requirements suited to the associated profession. T levels are also accepted for both.
Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
We know that valuable learning doesn't just happen in classrooms. Through recognition of prior learning (RPL), you may be awarded credit for knowledge and experience gained through work, volunteering or other life experiences.
If you don't have conventional entry qualifications, you can still apply through our RPL admission process. This includes a conversation with an academic member of staff, where you can share more about your background and provide supporting evidence.
Find out more about RPL
Alternative routes
If you're not quite ready for a degree, our Summer and Winter University short courses are a great way to experience university life, build confidence and prepare for higher education.