UCAS Predicted Grades
What are predicted grades, and why does everyone keep mentioning them?
A predicted grade is basically an estimate of the grade you’re likely to get in a subject, based on how you’ve done throughout your studies. When you apply to university, you usually haven’t sat your final exams yet, so universities use predicted grades to get a feel for how you’ll do. That’s why UCAS predicted grades come up so often once you start looking into applications.
Do I really need a predicted grade if I’m applying as an adult?
In most cases, yes. A predicted grade is needed for most university applications, whatever your age and however long it’s been since you were last in a classroom. It’s easy to assume it only applies to school leavers, but adults applying with A Levels usually need one too.
Who gives adult learners a predicted grade?
This is the tricky bit. School and college students get theirs from their subject teachers, who’ve followed their progress all year. If you’re studying on your own around work or family, there often isn’t anyone in that position, and without a predicted grade your application can stall before it’s really got going. At QTS Maths Tutor, we know how frustrating it can be to put in the hours studying as an adult, only to hit a hurdle like this, so it’s worth sorting out where your grade will come from nice and early.
So how can I get a predicted grade if I’m studying independently?
Some online course providers now offer a predicted grade service for private candidates. Pass Learn is one example, offering a predicted grade and academic reference with its A Level exam and course bundles. The grade is based on your progress through the course, so you get the same kind of evidence a school or college student would, which puts you on an equal footing when you apply.
How is the predicted grade actually worked out?
It’s based on evidence rather than a rough guess. With the service mentioned above, your grade takes into account your assessment results, how much of the course you’ve completed, how much time you’ve spent on it, and a dedicated predicted grade assessment. In other words, the work you put in genuinely shapes the grade you receive.
Can I get a predicted grade in any subject?
Not always, so it’s worth checking before you sign up. Providers like Pass Learn only offer predicted grades for certain subjects and exam boards. For example, Pass Learn offers them in Maths with AQA, OCR (A) and Edexcel, and in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology, Sociology, Geography, Philosophy and English Language with AQA. They’re also available in Economics with AQA and Edexcel (A), Business with AQA and Edexcel, Further Maths and Politics with Edexcel, and Law and Religious Studies with OCR. If your subject or exam board isn’t covered, you’ll need to plan another route to your predicted grade.
Will my predicted grade arrive in time for my application?
It should, as long as you keep on top of things. The predicted grade is submitted directly to UCAS as part of your application, in good time for your deadline. You will need to meet certain requirements within an allowed timeframe to receive it, and these are explained when you enrol, so make a note of them and plan your study around them.
How do universities use my predicted grades?
Universities compare your A Level predicted grades with the entry requirements for the course you’ve applied for. This helps them decide whether to make you an offer, so it’s a good idea to check the entry requirements for your chosen courses before you start. For the official explanation, have a read of everything you need to know about predicted grades by UCAS.
Where will I sit my exams?
If you’re studying as a private candidate, you’ll usually sit your exams at a local exam centre. It might feel a bit different from sitting exams at school, but the qualification is exactly the same and carries the same value on your application.
Is it too late to go back and study A Levels as an adult?
Not at all. Plenty of adults return to study to change careers, go to university or simply prove something to themselves. Prepare for your A Levels with Pass Learn or another structured course, and you’ll have material to work through at your own pace, which is a big help when you’re juggling study with everything else life throws at you.
How can I give myself the best chance of a good predicted grade?
Little and often is the key. Because your predicted grade reflects the work you do during your course, steady progress counts for a lot more than a last-minute push. Set aside regular slots each week, keep up with your assessments, and spend extra time on the topics you find hardest. That way, your A Level predicted grades will give a fair picture of what you can really do.
Where can I find out more about applying to university?
Visit UCAS to search for courses, check entry requirements and find out how the application process works. And if you’re still unsure about anything to do with predicted grades or your university application, give our friendly team a call using the helpline below. They’re always happy to talk things through and point you in the right direction.
QTS Maths Tutor Team
We help thousands of students each year with revision, courses and online exams.