BTEC Extended Diploma provides much of the underpinning knowledge and understanding for the National Occupational Standards of the UK for the sector, where these are appropriate. They are supported by the relevant Sector Skills Councils (SSCs) and/or Standards Setting Bodies (SSBs) of the UK. Certain BTEC Extended Diploma or Nationals are recognized as Technical Certificates and form part of the Apprenticeship Framework in the UK. They attract University and College admission service (UCAS) points that equate to similar-sized general qualifications within education institutions within the UK.