The BTEC route to university is on the increase

UCAS figures show that more students are taking alternative qualifications, such as BTECs, alone or alongside A-levels. Last year 26% of students from England accepted on to degree courses held at least one BTEC qualification, compared with 14% in 2008. However, A-levels are still the most popular route, with 63% of UK 18yr olds applying for degree courses last year studying for three A-levels. 

James Kewin, deputy chief executive of the Sixth Form Colleges Association, has said that: "Study programmes that combine BTEC and A-level qualifications are becoming increasingly common and have proved to be a highly effective way of helping young people to progress to higher education and employment. Overall, we think the take-up of applied general qualifications and the new Tech levels is likely to increase as schools and colleges adapt to the introduction of the new-style A-levels." [source GTAssociates]