V Levels are the new vocational qualifications arriving in England from September 2027. This page brings together what teachers need to know, and will be updated as more details are confirmed.
V Levels at a glance
- What: new level 3 vocational qualifications for 16 to 19-year-olds
- Size: 360 guided learning hours over two years, the same as one A Level
- Flexibility: can be combined with A Levels, other V Levels, or English and maths retakes
- Replacing: BTECs and most other applied general qualifications
- First teaching: September 2027, so today’s Year 10 are the first cohort
A Levels, V Levels and T Levels compared
| A Levels | V Levels | T Levels | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Route | Academic | Vocational | Technical |
| Size | 360 hours per subject | 360 hours per subject | At least 1,080 hours (equal to three A Levels) |
| Structure | Usually three subjects | Mix with A Levels or other V Levels | One large programme |
| Placement | None | None required | At least 315 hours (45 days) |
| Best for | Progression to university | Exploring a sector while keeping options open | Preparing for skilled work in a specific sector |
Rollout timeline
- 2026/27: existing level 3 vocational qualifications remain funded
- September 2027: first V Levels in Digital, Education and Early Years, and Finance and Accounting. Overlapping legacy qualifications lose funding. New level 2 Foundation Certificates begin.
- September 2028: second wave of subjects expected, with areas such as business, construction, engineering, health, legal, and sales and marketing named
- 2029 to 2031: remaining routes introduced, with the full rollout due by 2030/31
Later subjects and dates are subject to confirmation, so check the Department for Education’s implementation plan before making final decisions.
How schools and colleges can prepare
- Audit which current vocational courses are affected, and when
- Update options and careers information for Year 10 students and parents
- Plan training time for staff currently teaching BTECs
- Follow updates from the DfE, Ofqual and exam boards
Frequently asked questions
What is a V Level?
A V Level is a new level 3 vocational qualification for 16 to 19-year-olds in England. Each one is the same size as an A Level and focuses on applied learning in a broad sector, such as digital or finance.
When do V Levels start?
The first V Levels will be taught from September 2027. More subjects will be added each year, with the full rollout due to be complete by 2030/31.
Which subjects are available first?
Digital, Education and Early Years, and Finance and Accounting. Exam boards may use slightly different titles, such as Digital Systems and Data.
Are BTECs being scrapped?
Gradually. BTECs and similar qualifications remain funded in 2026/27. From 2027/28, those that overlap with a new V Level or T Level lose funding, starting with the first three subject areas. Others continue until a replacement arrives in their area.
Can students take V Levels and A Levels together?
Yes. Because a V Level is the same size as an A Level, students can combine them freely, take several V Levels, or take V Levels alongside English or maths retakes.
How is a V Level different from a T Level?
A T Level is a large, specialist programme equal to three A Levels, with a compulsory industry placement of at least 45 days. A V Level is the size of one A Level, covers a broader sector, and has no compulsory placement.
Will universities accept V Levels?
Progression to higher education is one of the stated aims of V Levels, and the government wants them to be clearly recognised by universities and employers. Check UCAS and individual universities for how they will be counted in entry requirements.
How will V Levels be assessed?
V Levels are designed around learning by doing, with a significant amount of practical assessment. Ofqual sets the assessment and grading rules, and exam boards will publish full details with their specifications.
What if a student isn’t ready for level 3?
A new one-year Further Study Pathway, including Foundation Certificates, will help students prepare for A Levels, T Levels or V Levels. A two-year Occupational Pathway is also being introduced for students heading straight into work or an apprenticeship.
Read more on Teach17
17 Things Teachers Need to Know About V Levels
Official information and exam boards
- DfE: New V levels and post-16 qualifications explained
- DfE: Qualifications due to have funding removed from August 2027
- House of Commons Library: V Levels briefing
- AQA V Levels
- Cambridge OCR V Levels
- Eduqas V Levels
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