What is the difference between T Levels and A Levels? 

Both A Levels and T Levels offer an exciting route into employment, University, Apprenticeships and beyond. But how do the two qualifications differ? 

One T Level equals three A Levels  

One T Level qualification is equivalent to three A Levels and is worth the same amount of UCAS Tariff points overall.  

For example, achieving a Distinction* in your T Level is equivalent to achieving three A*s at A Level – both worth a total of 168 UCAS Tariff points.    

Both T Levels and A Levels are equally recognised by Universities, employers, and other organisations. 

Work placement  

As part of your T Level, you will spend a total of nine weeks with a local business, gaining valuable industry experience alongside seasoned professionals.  

When studying A Levels, you may have the opportunity to spend a couple of weeks completing a work placement although, it is not mandatory for any A Level qualification. 

Work placements are a fantastic opportunity to put into practice the things you have learnt, to further develop your skills and knowledge, and to try out a potential career path.  

A Levels give you options 

You will choose to study at least 3 different options at A Level. This can vary from History to Textiles to Physical Education.

This flexibility is perfect if you have more than one interest or are unsure about your future career. It’s a great way to explore different subjects and figure out which route you would like to explore further after year 13. 

T Levels have been designed with top employers  

T Levels have been created in collaboration with more than 250 businesses, including Fujitsu, Skanska, and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).  

This collaboration makes T Levels unique.  

Everything you will learn on your T Level has clear applications in industry and is backed up by the experiences you will gain during your work placement.  

But which should I choose? 

Be assured that both qualifications can lead you to further study at University, full-time employment and to an apprenticeship.  

You’ll need to decide which learning style suits you best. If you’re a practical learner who already knows the industry you’d like to work in, then a T Level – with its 45-day work placement – would be the ideal route for you. 

If you excel in a classroom and have more than one subject you’d like to explore, then A Levels, with set course work and exams, will be the best route for you.  

At EKC Canterbury College, you can choose the qualification that suits you best. You may choose to studying A Levels at EKC Canterbury Sixth Form or, pursuing a T Level at the College may suit you best.  

Whichever route you take, you’ll find a welcoming, supportive environment to help you achieve your goals.