Summary: From 2027, England is introducing new Level 3 vocational qualifications called V-levels. This guide explains what they are, how they compare to A-levels and T-levels, and what the changes might mean for future university applicants.
What are V-levels?
V-levels are a new type of Level 3 vocational qualification announced by the UK’s Department for Education in October 2025. They will be taught for the first time from September 2027, they are a two-year qualification and are designed to offer a clear, practical route into university, apprenticeships or skilled work.
V-levels will sit alongside A-levels and T-levels, giving students an additional post-16 option. They are intended to combine academic learning with applied, hands-on skills.
Source: UK Department for Education, Education Hub (21 October 2025)
When do V-levels start?
Teaching for V-levels will begin in September 2027, so if you take these qualifications it won’t be until 2029 or 2030 when you’ll apply for university. Over the next few years, universities, UCAS and exam boards will release more information about how V-levels affect their entry requirements.
V-levels vs A-levels vs T-levels
How V-levels compare to A-levels and T-levels
Here’s a simple comparison to show how the three main post-16 routes differ:
| Qualification | What it focuses on | Who it’s best for | Where it leads |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-levels | Academic study and exams | Students who enjoy theory-led subjects and want broad university options | University, potential employment |
| T-levels | Technical learning with a 45-day industry placement | Students who want real workplace experience | Skilled work, apprenticeships, some university routes |
| V-levels | A mix of academic and vocational learning | Students who prefer practical learning but still want the option of university | University, apprenticeships, skilled work |
Understanding how these three pathways differ could help you decide which route suits your learning style and your future plans.
- A-levels – Academic and exam-based. Best if you enjoy theory-led subjects and want a wide choice of university courses.
- T-levels – Technical qualifications that include a 45-day industry placement. Designed for you if you want a strong workplace experience.
- V-levels – A mix of vocational and academic study. These are intended to prepare you for university as well as apprenticeships and skilled employment.
More universities are now accepting T-levels, however, unlike T-levels, V-levels may be taken alongside A-levels, which could give you more flexibility in combining practical and academic subjects.
Can you go to university with V-levels?
Yes. V-levels have been designed to support progression into university. However, because they are new, the full entry requirements for each degree will be confirmed closer to 2027–2028.
Some universities and courses may accept a V-level alone for entry, while others may require it to be combined with one or more A-levels. This will likely vary by course and it’s not clear as of yet.
It’s expected that UCAS will publish tariff information once final specifications are agreed.
How might V-levels affect university applications?
- Updated entry requirements: Universities will publish detailed guidance between 2026 and 2028.
- UCAS changes: V-levels will be added to the UCAS qualification list once assessment details are confirmed.
- Course-by-course variation: Some degrees may specify which V-level subjects they accept.
- Assessment style: Admissions teams will likely look at the academic depth and vocational content of each subject.
If you plan to take a V-level and want to go to university, it’s worth keeping up to date with what different universities say about future entry policies. Your first place to ask is probably going to be your teachers and tutors.
For the latest updates on exam changes and qualification announcements, visit our Exam Results Day guide.
What should you think about when deciding if V-levels are right for you?
- Your learning style: Do you prefer applied, hands-on learning?
- Your future plans: Are you aiming for university, an apprenticeship or employment?
- The subject you want to study: Does it have a vocational pathway?
- Course requirements: Some university courses may need specific subjects.
- Combining qualifications: You might be able to take a V-level alongside an A-level.
What to do next
V-levels won’t affect current applicants, but they will matter if you’re a younger student starting to plan your next steps. If you’re already thinking about university, here’s what you can do:
- Ask about V-levels at university open days.
- Check whether your chosen degrees accept vocational subjects.
- Follow UCAS for tariff updates as the qualification develops.
- Speak to teachers and careers advisers about the best pathway for your goals.
Understanding how qualifications are changing can help you feel more prepared – and help you choose the route that best supports your journey to university.