V Levels

What are V Levels?

V Levels are a new vocational qualification at level 3, available as a “mix and match” with A Levels for students aged 16 to 19. Each V Level is equivalent to one A Level and sized at 360 guided learning hours (GLH).

Unlike T Levels (which are equivalent to three A Levels), young people can take a mixture of V Levels and A Levels together, offering more choice and flexibility.

V Levels are intended to streamline what DfE has called “the confusing landscape” of around 900 vocational qualifications at level 3 currently available to 16 to 19 year olds, replacing well known qualifications like BTECs over time.

First teaching begins in September 2027. The first three subjects confirmed are Digital Systems and Data, Accounting and Finance, and Education, with further subjects following from 2028.

Will V Levels replace T Levels?

No. T Levels are a separate route, equivalent to three A Levels. The key difference is that V Levels can be mixed and matched with A Levels, whereas T Levels are taken as a standalone two year programme focused on vocational skills, with a substantial industry placement (roughly an 80/20 split between classroom and workplace).

V Levels, A Levels, T Levels and apprenticeships are different routes available to learners. V Levels and A Levels can be taken together.

Are V Levels replacing BTECs?

Yes, over time. V Levels will replace level 3 qualifications like BTECs and other Applied General Qualifications (AGQs). BTEC is a brand of AGQ designed for students aged 16 to 19. V Levels were announced in October 2025, and DfE published its implementation plan in May 2026 confirming sizing, subjects and timelines. Defunding is being phased: qualifications lose 16 to 19 funding approval for new starts on set dates, and students already enrolled continue to be funded to completion.

V Levels and climbing

The Vocational Levels (V Levels) in Further Education and Skills are different to the climbing or bouldering V Levels. The “V” levels in climbing and bouldering comes from John “Vermin” Sherman, who developed the scale in the 1990s. V Levels for level 3 in Further Education are a level 3 qualification route and are vocational levels, and have nothing to do with climbing or bouldering.