A-levels: What Are They and What You Can Do with Them

Taking A-level classes is a great way to explore areas of interest and deepen your knowledge of your favorite subjects. If you're still in school and planning to attend university, you may need an A-level qualification before you apply. This article explores A levels, including why you should take them, how to select the right subjects, and what to do after completing them.

What are A levels?

A levels are "advanced level" classes designed to prepare students for university. Available to students aged 16 to 18, they are part of a two-year study programme that allows students to explore nearly 80 subjects (each culminating with a final exam) after completing the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) [1].

A-levels are one of the qualifications universities consider when determining your readiness to begin a degree course. To complete the qualification, you take AS-level and A2-level classes. Popular A-level courses include maths, law, business, and psychology.

AS level

Your AS level (Advanced Subsidiary) refers to the courses you take during the first year of A-level studies, typically year 12. The final exam includes written and internal assessments such as projects, investigations, and performances.

Completing the AS level is a prerequisite for the A2 level. However, some students stop after the AS level, a standalone qualification. The UCAS Tariff some universities use to evaluate student applications includes AS-level qualifications in its comparison tables [2]. 

A2 Level

If you pursue the A-level qualification, you take A2-level courses during year 13. Your exams at the end of this year determine your final A-level grades, and these exams assess the content you studied during the AS-level and A2-level years. Depending on the results of these exams, you may advance to the university of your choice, go through Clearing to find a university, or follow a path that doesn't include university courses for now.  

Why should I take A levels?

Like many students, you might have several reasons for taking A levels. The two main reasons students take A levels are to prepare for university or to explore different subjects to identify areas of interest.

If you’re going to university

Universities consider many qualifications when reviewing student applications. Although they may accept different qualifications, A-levels remain one of the most commonly used and accepted. Some programmes require minimum grades or specific A-level courses, so taking A-levels may be helpful. 

If you’re unsure of your next step

If you’re unsure what degree or career to pursue, studying various A-level subjects can help you explore your areas of interest to identify what you want to study in depth. The time you spend taking A-level classes is time you can use to think about your plans and career options. 

What qualifications do I need to take A levels?

To know the specific requirements for taking A levels, you should begin by checking with your school. 

The general A-level requirements are as follows:

• Earn at least grades 9 to 4/A* to C in five GCSEs [3]

• Earn a minimum of a grade 6 in the subject(s) you plan on studying [3] 

How do I pick subjects for A levels?

When picking subjects for A levels, consider your plans and interests. Start by considering your academic strengths and your favourite subjects in school. Alternatively, consider subjects you may need to study for a specific career path or choose courses to meet a university's entry requirements. You can also choose various subjects to expand your knowledge and identify your areas of interest.

Questions to ask yourself

Do you want to attend university after A levels?

Suppose you intend to continue your university education after A-levels and know what degree you want to pursue. In that case, looking into the degree's requirements is a good idea. Some degrees require specific A levels to ensure you get the foundational knowledge and skills needed to succeed in your degree subject. 

Are you unsure what you want to study at university?

If you’re unsure what you want to study at university, include at least one or two “facilitating subjects” in your studies. These facilitating subjects include maths and further maths, English literature, sciences, classical languages, history, geography, and modern languages. 

Do you know what university you want to attend?

Some universities have a list of preferred A-level subjects or minimum grades you need to attend. It may be beneficial to check with the university you hope to attend to determine if it has such a list. 

What subjects do you enjoy?

Taking A-level classes in subjects you enjoy has two advantages. You are more likely to pay attention and perform well if you like the subject, which can lead to a higher exam grade. It also can help you decide if you want to pursue a career in that field or leave it as a hobby.

What subjects do you struggle with?

Subjects in A levels tend to be harder subjects in GCSE. You may need to change how you study if you take A levels in a traditionally challenging subject.  

What can I do after A levels?

Completing A levels provides you with several options when thinking about your future. Many people decide to continue their university studies, and others focus on their career paths.

Attend University

Attending University is a common next step after A levels. This makes sense when considering that A levels are one of the more common qualifications for continuing higher education. 

Get a job

After completing A levels, you can begin working full-time right away. Many job options don’t require higher education, but they value A levels' qualifications. 

Do an apprenticeship

An apprenticeship combines a work-and-study programme with on-the-job training that provides real-life experience while you study towards a qualification. You can earn various qualifications through an apprenticeship, from the GCSE level through university and postgraduate study.

Take a gap year

If you’re unsure what you want to do after A levels or just weary from studying and need some time off, consider taking a gap year. Taking time off can help you reset so you have a better sense of direction when you're ready to study again. You can use the time to gain new skills, build confidence, and get hands-on work experience. 

Study abroad

While studying abroad isn’t technically taking a gap year, it can be a significant change of pace. It allows you to step outside your comfort zone and learn the ins and outs of a completely different culture. Studying abroad can also help you stand out to employers who want culturally aware employees. 

Volunteer

Are you passionate about a cause? Volunteer your time and knowledge to help that cause. You’ll get valuable, real-life experience while providing much-needed assistance. It’s a win-win! 

Some other options during a gap year include travel, paid employment, part-time courses, or an internship. When deciding about your gap year, ask yourself what you want to achieve. 

Next steps

A-levels allow you to explore your interests and learn more about the subjects you plan to study as you prepare for your career. If you're unsure what to study, consider taking a specialisation like Algebra: Elementary to Advanced or Introduction to English Common Law to familiarise yourself with the subject and narrow your choices. You can find these and more courses on Coursera.