Points-based university access system 'set to be axed'

The points-based system used by students applying to higher education is now likely to be scrapped after the move gained widespread support from universities and schools, writes Alison Kershaw for The Independent.

Around two-thirds are in favour of proposals to axe the UCAS ‘tariff system’, according to a report by the admissions service. Instead, universities will ask would-be students for specific qualifications and grades when offering places on degree courses. Proposals to overhaul the tariff system, which would mean a major revamp of university applications, were put forward for consultation by UCAS earlier this year.

UCAS had recommended that universities consider the "gradual withdrawal" of the tariff system and replace it with the "greater use of qualifications and grades". The move would give students a clearer indication about how the qualifications, such as A-levels, that they choose to take will be relevant to different degree courses at different institutions, it said.
Full report on The Independent site