How do you get to university?
Come and see for yourself what Derby's like!
Visit us at an open day, we hold them throughout the year
- Find out more about our courses
- Talk to tutors and students
- Take a tour of our facilities
- Visit our accommodation
- Make sure it feels just rights
Visit: www.derby.ac.uk/opendays for dates and how to book.
Most people come to university after taking their A2s or qualifications that are equivalent, such as AVCEs or BTECs.
Qualifications in particular subjects
For some university courses you'll need to have A levels in specific subjects. So, it's worth checking the entry requirements as early as possible.
What grades you'll need
Universities usually talk about UCAS points, rather than grades like A, B or C. The grades you need depend on the course you want to study.
At Derby, we usually ask for the following grades at A level:
- To do a bachelors degree - you'll need between 160 UCAS points(that's two Ds and an E at A2) and 300 UCAS points (that's three Bs at A2).
- To do a foundation degree or HND - you'll need between 40 UCAS points (that's one A2 at grade E) and 80 UCAS points (that's one A2 at grade C).
You'll find out about the UCAS points system when you're in Year 12. If you're not doing A levels, your teachers can tell you how many UCAS points your qualification is worth.
The qualifications you'll need vary depending on the course. Have a look at the courses we offer and what the entry requirements are.
But it's not all about grades
At Derby, we're just as interested in how well you do once you're here. So as well as grades, we'll look for, how enthusiastic and interested in the course you are and what you've done outside of your studies, such as sporting achievements,voluntary work, jobs or positions of responsibility you've held. So sell yourself on your application!

