A points total is achieved by converting qualifications, such as A-Levels (Scottish Highers, BTECs, etc.
While UCAS Tariff Points are often based on A-Levels, AS-Levels, Scottish Highers, etc., they can also be increased through other means, including taking extra-curricular activities, such as doing an EPQ[1] or passing a Grade 6 in an instrument.
[2] Though this must remain cautionary as many universities will still have other entry requirements or expectations that they have for a student that may not be met with additional UCAS Points.
Since then, however, both the range of qualifications held by applicants, and the variety of progression routes into higher education have increased.
Universities and colleges are independent organisations and each year they decide how to set their entry requirements.