Entry qualifications, degree results and value-added in UK universities

The statistical correlation between entry qualifications (A-level scores) and degree results (proportion of first and upper second (i.e. good) degrees) is described for eight subjects over a 21-year period. A significant positive correlation is demonstrated, but the strength of the relationship varies between subjects. More detailed analysis reveals that the nature of the relationship also varies at institutional (effectively departmental) level with some displaying consistently counter-intuitive combinations of above-average entry qualifications and below-average proportions of good degrees (and vice versa). These results have implications for current policy debates regarding value-added and standards in UK universities. They also identify some directions for future research.