Currently Empty: $0.00
Uncategorized
About A-Levels: Subjects, Exam Boards, Grades & University Guide
About A-Levels — Clear Guide for Students & Parents
AQA • Edexcel • OCR • CAIE — subjects, grades & university entry
What A-Levels are and why they matter
A-Levels are two-year courses taken in Sixth Form or college (ages 16–18). Universities use A-Level results to make offers, so choosing the right subjects and preparing well matters. This page explains subjects, exam boards, assessment, university entry tips and realistic ways to succeed.
Quick: most students take 3 A-Levels; popular choices include Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, English and Computer Science.
What are A-Levels?
A-Levels are advanced academic qualifications taken after GCSEs. They focus on depth in a small number of subjects and are typically assessed by final exams at the end of Year 13 (linear format).
Structure
- Two-year course (Year 12 = AS content, Year 13 = A2 content on older syllabuses; most boards now use linear assessment at the end of Year 13).
- Assessment: mainly final written exams; some subjects include coursework or practical endorsements.
Exam boards & assessment
Choose resources and past papers that match your exam board — AQA, Edexcel, OCR or Cambridge International (CAIE).
Key points
- AQA / Edexcel / OCR / CAIE: similar standards but different syllabuses and paper styles.
- Linear exams: most A-Levels are now linear (all exams at the end of Year 13).
- Coursework: some subjects keep a coursework or practical component (e.g., Art, some Sciences).
Popular A-Level subjects
Students commonly choose a combination based on career aims. Below are common groupings.
Mathematics
Further Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Computer Science
Economics
English Literature
History
Typical combinations
- Medicine: Chemistry + Biology + Maths/Physics
- Engineering / Physics: Maths + Physics + Further Maths
- Computer Science: Maths + Computer Science + Physics/Further Maths
- Economics / Finance: Maths + Economics + Further Maths/History
Grades & university entry
A-Level grades run A* to E (U = unclassified). Universities make conditional offers (e.g., A*AA) based on predicted grades and personal statements.
Typical requirements
- Highly competitive courses: A*AA, AAA
- Many courses: AAB, ABB
- Foundation / pathway routes also exist for lower offers
Practical tips to succeed at A-Levels
- Pick the right subjects: Enjoyment and clear progression to your degree/career matter more than popularity.
- Use past papers: Practise under timed conditions and learn mark schemes.
- Start early: Build consistent weekly revision rather than cramming.
- Get help: Targeted tutoring can lift exam technique and confidence quickly.
- Balance depth & wellbeing: A-Levels are intense — manage time and sleep for best performance.
Frequently asked questions
How many A-Levels should I take?
Most students take three A-Levels. Four is possible but increases workload and is usually only recommended for very strong students.
Can I change subjects after starting?
Changing subjects is possible early on, but not recommended later in Year 12 because of lost content. Speak to your school as soon as possible if you want to switch.
Are A-Levels internationally recognised?
Yes — especially Cambridge International A-Levels (CAIE). UK A-Levels are widely accepted by universities globally.
Are A-Levels harder than GCSEs?
Yes. A-Levels go into greater depth and expect more independent learning and problem-solving than GCSEs.
Need help with A-Levels?
We offer 1-1 tutoring, past-paper walkthroughs and personalised revision plans for AQA, Edexcel, OCR and CAIE syllabuses. Book a free consultation to discuss your goals.