Teaching of the new BTEC qualifications began in September 2002. The information provided below is intended to help you understand the structure of the new qualifications so that you can enter your data for the new BTEC qualifications in the current Entry Requirements section of net.update and make appropriate offers.

What are the new BTEC Nationals?

The BTEC Nationals are vocational qualifications to prepare students equally for direct entry into employment or for progression to higher education. The new qualification has three sizes, all at National Qualification Framework Level 3: BTEC National Award, BTEC National Certificate and BTEC National Diploma.

BTEC Qualifications

The BTEC National Award
The 6 unit National Award is a unit based specialist qualification that focuses on particular aspects of employment within the vocational sector. As such the award offers a qualification which can extend the study and provide vocational emphasis for learners following an Applied GCE or GCE route. It is broadly equivalent to one GCE A level and is graded pass, merit or distinction (P, M, D).

The BTEC National Certificate
The 12 unit National Certificate provides as specialist work related qualification that covers the key knowledge and practical skills required in the vocational sector and also offer different emphasis through the choice of specialist units. It is broadly equivalent to two GCE A levels and may be combined for this qualification. It is given a double grade, for example, PP, MP, DD.

The BTEC National Diploma
The 18 unit National Diploma extend and deepens the specialist focus available in the 12 unit certificate. The qualification prepares learners for employment in the sector. It is broadly equivalent to three GCE A levels and is triple graded, for example, PPP, MMP, DDD.

How are the new BTEC Nationals assessed?

Each unit is assessed through assignments based on work-related situations or activities with opportunities for teamwork and in-depth study. Knowledge and understanding across the programme are reinforced by externally-set integrated vocational assignments. In the case of creative arts, this is assessed by a final major project.

Are the new BTEC Nationals included in the Tariff?

Yes, Btec Nationals have been included in the UCAS Tariff since the 2005 entry cycle. The 6-unit award at distinction carries the same number of points as an A level, grade A (120 points) - see the Latest Tariff table.

Further information

A list of subject/vocational areas covered by the new BTEC Nationals can be downloaded from the Edexcel website.

More information about net.update is provided here.