Posted on 11th November 2025
If you’re looking to train as a ski or snowboard instructor and continue into further or higher education, you can now earn UCAS points through BASI – and gain academic credit for every course you complete.
Whether you’re planning a gap year, applying to university, or pursuing a full career in snowsports, BASI qualifications give you more than practical experience – they’re officially recognised within the UK education system.
When you complete a full Level 1 qualification with BASI, you’ll earn 7 UCAS tariff points. This applies to the following qualifications:
Ski
Snowboard
Adaptive
Telemark
XC
You can earn up to 35 UCAS points by completing all five Level 1 qualifications.
Please note: UCAS points are awarded only on full qualification completion – not just course attendance.
UCAS tariff points are used by universities and colleges across the UK to assess applicants. A single Level 1 qualification is worth almost the same as improving your AS Level grade from a C to an A. Completing both Ski and Snowboard Level 1 qualifications earns more points than moving from an E to an A.
Find out more about how UCAS points work →
All BASI courses are formally credit-rated by the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF). This framework helps learners and employers understand the level and value of learning across Scotland, the UK and Europe.
You’ll earn SCQF credit points for each BASI course you complete – not just the full qualification. These credits reflect how much learning is involved and what level it sits at within the national education system.
| BASI Course | SCQF Level | Credit Points | Comparable Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ski Level 1 | 6 | 8 | Higher (Scotland) / AS Level (England) |
| Snowboard Level 1 | 6 | 8 | Higher / AS Level |
| Ski Level 2 | 7 | 12 | Advanced Higher / A Level / HNC |
| Ski Level 4 Teaching | 10 | 24 | Bachelor’s Degree (Ordinary) |
Your certificate will include the University of Edinburgh and SCQF logos, showing your learning has been independently verified and academically recognised. SCQF credit is also aligned to the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) – useful if you’re planning to work or study abroad.
View all BASI course ratings on the SCQF database →
Adding your BASI training to your UCAS application, CV or cover letter helps demonstrate academic and practical achievement – both valued by universities and employers.
CV example:
BASI Ski Level 1 Instructor – SCQF Level 6, 8 Credits
Cover letter example:
I hold a BASI Ski Level 1 qualification, credit-rated by the University of Edinburgh at SCQF Level 6 for 8 credit points. This reflects around 80 hours of structured learning and is comparable to Highers in Scotland or AS Levels in England.
BASI’s academic recognition gives you added flexibility – whether you're aiming for university, considering a career in the mountains, or applying for a role that values certified training.
With BASI, your learning counts - on and off the mountain.
Earn up to 35 UCAS points across Level 1 qualifications
Gain SCQF credits for every completed course
Showcase your achievements with confidence

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