Overview
BTEC is a family of vocational and technical qualifications awarded by Pearson, used widely in the UK and internationally. Pearson says BTECs run from Entry Level up to Level 7, with over 2000 qualifications across 16 sectors. They give a practical, industry-focused route alongside or instead of academic qualifications such as GCSEs and A levels.
Levels or stages
Pearson groups BTECs by age and level.
Age 14-16
BTEC Tech Awards: Level 1 to 2, comparable to GCSE grades A to E.
BTEC Firsts: Level 2, comparable to GCSE grades A* to C.
Other options, all Entry to Level 3: MySkills, BTEC Workskills and BTEC IT Users (ITQ).
Age 16 and over
BTEC Level 1 Introductory: Level 1.
BTEC Level 2 Technicals: Level 2.
BTEC Nationals: Level 3, comparable to A levels.
BTEC Higher Nationals: Level 4 to 5, comparable to the first and second years of an undergraduate degree.
BTEC Apprenticeships (Level 2 to 3) and Higher Apprenticeships (Level 4 to 5).
BTEC Foundation Diploma in Art and Design: Level 3 to 4.
BTEC Specialist (Level 1 to 3) and BTEC Professional (Level 4 to 7).
Exam pattern
BTECs are made up of units. Pearson says units are usually assessed through assignments set and marked by your teacher or tutor, and some BTECs also have externally marked tests, on paper or on computer. Grades are Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction* (introduced for most newer specifications in 2010), and you receive one, two or three grades depending on the size of the course. Work that does not reach a Pass is graded U (unclassified). Check the course specification for how your qualification is assessed.
FAQs
Is a BTEC assessed only by exams?
No. Most BTECs are assessed mainly through internally set and marked coursework and assignments, though some qualifications include externally marked tests.
What levels does BTEC cover?
From Entry Level up to Level 7, spanning school-age Tech Awards through Higher Nationals, which are comparable to the first two years of an undergraduate degree, to BTEC Professional qualifications.