What Are V-levels?

Choosing what to do after GCSEs can feel overwhelming. A Levels, BTECs, T-levels... and now V Levels? 

V Levels are brand new, and loads of students (and parents) are confused about what they actually mean for your future. Are they just BTECs with a different name? Will universities accept them? And most importantly, are they the right choice for you?

V Levels are designed to make your post-16 options clearer, not more complicated. They're a practical, hands-on alternative to A Levels that could be perfect if you want to learn real skills for a specific career.

In this guide, we'll explain exactly what V Levels are, when they’ll launch, how they compare to other qualifications, and help you figure out if they're the right path for your future. 

Key Takeaways

• V Levels are new vocational qualifications for students in England, set to replace some BTECs from 2027.

• They're designed for students who want hands-on, career-focused learning after GCSEs instead of academic A Levels.

• V Levels will be recognised by universities and employers, with UCAS points for uni applications.

What Are V Levels?

V Levels are a brand new type of qualification being introduced in England. The "V" stands for "vocational", which means they're all about learning practical skills for specific careers.

The UK government announced V Levels in October 2025 (opens in a new tab) as part of a major shake-up of post-GCSE education. They're being created to give students a clearer path into work-based learning.

Vocational education has been a confusing part of post-16 education for a long time. V Levels are the government's way of tidying up vocational education. Right now, there are loads of different qualifications like BTECs, Cambridge Technicals, and others. V Levels will streamline this by offering one consistent, high-quality option.

You'll take V Levels after finishing your GCSEs, usually between ages 16 and 18. They're meant to sit alongside A Levels and T-levels as one of your main post-16 choices.

Why Are V Levels Being Introduced?

The government wants to make vocational education simpler and better quality. Education ministers have argued that the current system of vocational qualifications is confusing, with too many overlapping courses that vary in quality.

BTECs have been brilliant for millions of students over the years. But recently, some BTEC qualifications have been defunded or reformed (opens in a new tab). This created worry and uncertainty for students and teachers.

V Levels are designed to provide a clear, government-backed alternative that students, parents, and employers can trust. The aim is to give vocational qualifications the same status and recognition as A Levels.

The government also wants V Levels to better prepare students for real jobs. That means more focus on industry standards and what employers actually need.

When Will V Levels Start?

V Levels are scheduled to launch in September 2027. This means current Year 9 students (in 2025) will be among the first to have the option to take them. And, if you're currently choosing your GCSEs, V Levels will be available by the time you need to make post-16 decisions.

The rollout will happen gradually. Not every subject or sector will be available straight away. The government will announce which courses launch first closer to 2027.

How Do V Levels Compare to Other Qualifications?

Confused about what makes V Levels different? Let's break down how they stack up against the qualifications you might already know about.

V Levels vs BTECs

BTECs are being phased out. Some may remain, but V Levels are the preferred vocational qualification going forward after 2027. 

V Levels vs A Levels

This is where the biggest difference lies.

• A Levels suit students who love learning from textbooks and want a traditional route to university. 

• V Levels suit students who prefer learning by doing and want to head towards a specific career.

You can still get to university with either. But A Levels are the traditional route, while V Levels show universities you've got practical skills and clear career goals. Take a look at our handy comparison table to discover more:

V Levels vs T-Levels

What Can You Study in a V Level Course?

V Levels will cover practical, career-focused subjects. The exact list hasn't been finalised yet, but a list of proposed subjects has been published (opens in a new tab).

These subjects include:

• Arts, Craft and Design

• Criminology

• Education and Early Years

• Hair, Beauty and Aesthetics

• Protective Services

• Retail

• Travel and Tourism

Each V Level will teach you the knowledge and skills needed to work in that industry. You'll learn through a mix of: 

• Projects

• Practical tasks

• Assessments.

Some V Levels might be quite specialised (like Criminology), while others could be broader (like Arts, Craft and Design).

The real focus is on developing transferable skills for work. While the government is still working with employers to design V Levels, what you learn will match what real jobs actually need.

What Are the Entry Requirements for V Levels?

Because V Levels are still being designed in consultation with employers and education providers, entry requirements are not set in stone yet. Entry requirements will depend on the school or college and the specific V Level course. But here's what you could expect.

Most V Level courses will probably ask for: 

• Maths and English GCSEs at grade 4 (or above).

• Some V Levels may ask for grade 5s in certain subjects, especially if they're related to the course.

Schools and colleges will set their own entry requirements, but V Levels are designed to be accessible to a wide range of students.

Importantly, V Levels are a valid vocational route to achieve your future goals. They are not inferior to A Levels or T Levels. They simply provide a different way of learning for students who would rather pursue something different to the traditional A Level route.

Here is a quick list of the three main post-16 qualifications:

• V Levels - vocational courses

• A Levels - academic courses

• T Levels - technical courses

What Can V Levels Lead To?

V Levels are designed to keep your options open. Here's where they can take you.

Employment: After completing V Levels, you could go straight into work. Employers will recognise V Levels as proof you've got the skills and knowledge for the job.

Further training: You might decide to do more training or professional qualifications in your chosen field.

University: Yes, you can go to uni with V Levels. V Levels will carry UCAS points, just like A Levels and BTECs, making them acceptable for university applications. Universities will recognise them, especially for vocational or applied degree courses. 

Apprenticeships: V Levels are perfect preparation for apprenticeships, and are the ideal choice if you have a clear career path in mind. You'll develop practical skills and industry knowledge that employers love.

Or perhaps you’d like to combine a degree with an apprenticeship? Read our comprehensive guide to degree apprenticeships to find out more.

Don’t think of V Levels as a below-par qualification. They're a springboard into whatever comes next for you.

Are V Levels Right for Me?

Only you can decide, but here are some questions to help you figure it out.

Do you prefer hands-on learning? 

• If you'd rather build, create, or practice skills than write essays, V Levels could be perfect.

Do you have a career area in mind? 

• V Levels work best when you've got a rough idea of what industry you're interested in.

Do you find traditional exams stressful? 

• V Levels include coursework and practical assessments, not just written exams.

Are you considering an apprenticeship later? 

• V Levels give you a head start with the practical, industry-specific skills employers want.

Do you want to keep your options open? 

• V Levels still let you apply to university or change direction later.

If you're still unsure, talk to your teachers, careers adviser, or family. Visit open days at local colleges and ask about the V Level courses they might be planning to offer in 2027. They might not have all the answers yet, because everything is still in the consultation stage. But, V Levels are happening. So, it’s good to be prepared.

There's no rush to decide right now. Just keep V Levels on your radar as you explore your post-GCSE options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are V Levels the same as BTECs?

No. While they serve a similar purpose, V Levels are a new qualification (beginning September 2027) designed to replace many BTECs with more standardised content and assessment. Think of them as the next generation of vocational qualifications.

Can I go to university with V Levels?

Yes. V Levels will carry UCAS points and be recognised by universities for admissions, just like BTECs and A Levels. Many universities actively welcome vocational qualifications, especially for career-focused degree courses.

How many V Level subjects can I take?

This will depend on your school or college. You might take one V Level alongside other qualifications, or focus on multiple V Level subjects. Each V Level will be equivalent to one or more A Levels in terms of size and workload.

Will employers recognise V Levels?

Yes. The government is working with employers to design V Levels, ensuring they meet industry standards and are valued in the workplace. Employers will see V Levels as proof you've got relevant, practical skills.

Do I still need to study Maths and English?

While this is not yet certain, it’s highly likely if you don't get at least a grade 4 in GCSE Maths and English by the time you're 16. You'll usually need to keep studying them alongside your V Levels until you hit this grade. Alternatively, Functional Skills Qualifications could help you hit an equivalent grade. 

Final Thoughts

V Levels are designed to give you more choice and clarity when it comes to your future. They're not meant to replace A Levels or make education more complicated. They're here to give you a high-quality vocational option that universities and employers will respect.

If you love learning by doing, have a career area in mind, or just know that traditional academic study isn't your thing, V Levels could be brilliant for you.

Your post-GCSE path is yours to choose. V Levels are just one more option to help you get where you want to go.

References

gov.uk (opens in a new tab) - V Levels Explained (opens in a new tab)

BBC News - Cash pulled from popular BTecs in move to T-levels (opens in a new tab)

FE Week - What we know about V Levels, new T Levels and the end of the T Level foundation year (opens in a new tab)