T Levels FAQs

What is a T Level? 

T Levels are two-year qualifications taken after GCSES, they are the equivalent to 3 A Levels or a Level 3 Diploma. 

What can I do after a T Level? 

After a T Level you can go straight into employment, go to university, do an apprenticeship or complete a higher-level qualification at college. 

Are there exams and assessments? 

Yes, T Levels include a mix of exams and assessments. 

What skills will I learn on a T Level? 

During a T Level you will gain a range of skills including communication, research, project work, employability, personal and social. 

Are there entry requirements for a T Level? 

Yes, there are entry requirements for T Levels, for most courses you must have 5 GCSES grade 4 and above including maths and English – entry requirements may be higher for different subject areas. 

What can I do if I don’t get the right grades for a T Level? 

If you don’t achieve the correct grades for your chosen T Level you can start on a lower-level qualification, for example Level 2, and progress to a T Level. 

How do I apply for a T Level? 

Applying for a T Level can be done through our website, similar to a vocational course. 

What is involved in a T Level? 

T Levels offer both practical and knowledge-based learning at a school or college and on-the-job experience through industry placement with a relevant employer. 

Can I go to university after I complete a T Level? 

Yes, T Levels are a great steppingstone to university. 

Will I complete work experience during my T Level? 

Yes, T Levels combine on-the-job training with studying. You will complete at least 315 hours of work experience during your T Level with a relevant employer. Our dedicated Work Experience Coach will help you to find an employer suitable for your industry and studies. 

What is an Advanced British Standard’ (ABS)? 

A new baccalaureate- style qualification which will combine the best of the A level and T Level. 

What does ABS mean for T Levels? 

This is not the end of T Levels as they will remain the backbone of the new qualification. The technical options within the ABS will follow the same broad structure as the T Level. 

Will ABS still have a strong employer focus? 

Yes, the qualification will still have the same, strong employer focus as it does now. 

Is choosing a T Level the wrong choice? 

No, here and now, everyone committing to study a T Level is taking the best, industry led qualification available.  

What will students gain under the ABS? 

More teaching hours, a broader curriculum until 18, maths and English studied until 18, equal choice between technical and academic subjects and simpler and more straightforward choices to make at 16. 

What does this mean for existing qualifications? 

Whilst the ABS is being rolled out, T Levels and A Levels will continue to be implemented and any duplicative, low-quality courses that deliver skills employers don’t need will be removed. 

Will this affect apprenticeships? 

Apprenticeships are being retained for young people who want to move straight into ‘on-the-job' training, ensuring English and maths study as part of apprenticeships has greater investment.