Choosing what to study after GCSEs is an important decision, and there’s a new option on the way.
V Levels are new Level 3 vocational qualifications designed for students who enjoy practical, career-focused learning but want to keep their future options open.
Starting in September 2027, V Levels will sit alongside A Levels and T Levels, giving students more flexibility to combine subjects, explore career interests and prepare for university, apprenticeships or further training.
V Levels are vocational qualifications for 16–19-year-olds in England. They combine classroom learning with practical, real-world applications, helping you develop knowledge and skills relevant to different industries.
Unlike qualifications that focus on preparing you for one specific occupation, V Levels allow you to explore a broader subject area before deciding where you want to specialise.
Each V Level is equivalent in size to one A Level, meaning you can study several V Levels together or combine them with A Levels.
For example, you might choose a combination of vocational and academic subjects that matches your interests and future ambitions.
V Levels, A Levels and T Levels are all Level 3 qualifications, but they offer different ways to learn and prepare for your future. The best choice depends on your interests, how you prefer to study and what you’d like to do next.
| V Levels | A Levels | T Levels | |
| What will I study? | Career-focused subjects with practical applications | Academic subjects such as Maths, English or Biology | One technical subject linked to a particular industry |
| How will I learn? | A mix of classroom learning and practical, real-world activities | Mainly classroom-based lessons and independent study | Classroom learning, practical skills and experience in the workplace |
| Can I mix subjects? | Yes. Combine different V Levels or study them alongside A Levels | Yes. Most students choose three A Level subjects | No. You study one full T Level programme |
| How long will it take? | Usually two years | Usually two years | Two years |
| Will I get work experience? | No compulsory industry placement | No compulsory industry placement | Yes. An industry placement of at least 315 hours (around 45 days) |
| What can I do afterwards? | University, apprenticeships or further training | University, apprenticeships or further study | Skilled employment, apprenticeships or university |
| Who might it suit? | Students who enjoy applied learning and want to keep their options open | Students who enjoy academic study and exploring different subjects | Students who have a particular career or industry in mind |
Not sure which route is right for you? Think about the subjects you enjoy, whether you prefer academic or practical learning, and what you’d like to do after college. All three pathways can open doors to further study and career opportunities.
V Levels could be a good choice if you:
The first V Levels are planned to start in September 2027, covering the following subjects:
Further subjects will be introduced in stages between 2028 and 2030, expanding the range of vocational options available.
The subjects offered at individual colleges will depend on their course provision.
V Levels are designed to be studied over two years, with each qualification including 360 guided learning hours, equivalent in size to one A Level.
You may study a combination of V Levels or mix V Levels with A Levels as part of your study programme.
V Levels will include a combination of knowledge-based and practical assessment, giving you opportunities to demonstrate both what you know and how you apply your learning.
The exact assessment methods will depend on the subject and qualification.
Yes. V Levels are being developed to support progression to higher education, including university.
They will attract UCAS Tariff points, just like A Levels. However, individual universities and courses will set their own entry requirements, so it’s important to check which qualifications they accept for your chosen degree.
V Levels can also support progression to apprenticeships and higher technical qualifications.
V Levels are being introduced as part of wider changes to vocational education in England.
Over time, they will replace many existing Level 3 vocational qualifications, including applied general qualifications such as BTECs.
The changes will happen gradually, with new subjects introduced in stages. Existing qualifications will continue to be available during parts of the transition, depending on funding approval and subject area.
If you’re currently studying a BTEC, don’t worry. The introduction of V Levels won’t affect your ability to complete your existing course.
You’ll continue studying towards your qualification as planned, and your BTEC will remain a recognised qualification that can support progression to university, apprenticeships, employment or further study.
The changes are being introduced gradually and mainly affect the qualifications available to new students in future years.
If you’re thinking about your next steps, our team can help you understand your progression options and choose the right pathway for your future.
The first V Levels will be available to study at City of Westminster College from September 2027, with more subjects introduced in the following years.
At United Colleges Group, we’re committed to helping students understand their options and choose the right pathway for their future.
Explore our courses to discover the qualifications currently available at City of Westminster College and the College of North West London.
If you need help with your course information or applications, contact us at admissions@ucg.ac.uk.
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