Choosing the right pre-university qualification is a significant process for many families, and clear and practical information is needed to do so confidently. This guide explains what A Levels are, how they work, the subjects available, how they are assessed. It also outlines how they support university pathways in the UK and internationally, helping families make an informed decision for these final years of high school.

What Are A Levels?

A Levels are academic qualifications organised by subject, enabling students to focus on disciplines that interest them while building a strong foundation for university entry in the UK and internationally.

Definition of A Levels

A Levels, short for Advanced Level qualifications, are subject-based academic courses typically taken by students aged 16 to 18 and studied over two years within the UK education system and beyond. They are often seen as the final stage of secondary education before university, with most universities requiring at least three A Level courses for entry. Each A Level focuses on one subject in depth, allowing students to specialise early, build strong subject knowledge, and show academic readiness for higher education.

Who Are A Levels Designed For?

A Levels are well suited to students who already have a sense of their academic strengths. They work best for learners who enjoy focusing on fewer subjects rather than studying a broad range of subjects. Students who perform well in written exams, revision, and structured assessments often feel comfortable with the A Level system. It can also suit students who prefer clear subject boundaries and individual subject certificates. That said, many different learning styles can succeed with the right support from school, family, and teachers.

Where Are A Levels Recognised?

Although A Levels originated in the UK, they are widely recognised internationally. Universities in the UK, Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia accept A Levels as an entry qualification. Many international schools offer A Levels UK programmes or International A Levels, enabling students to follow the same academic structure as those in the UK. For families inquiring about A Levels in the UK, the key difference internationally is often the exam board rather than the qualification itself.

What Is an International A Level?

An International A Level follows the same academic standards as UK A Levels. Still, it is designed for students studying outside the UK, most commonly through exam boards such as Cambridge and Edexcel. Universities around the world widely recognise these qualifications. They are popular with international schools, online schools, and globally mobile families, as they offer the same academic rigour with assessment schedules suited to international settings.

With their focus on academic depth, clear assessment structure, and global recognition, A Levels remain a well-established pathway for students planning their next steps in higher education.

How Do A Levels Work?

A Levels follow a structured two-year programme that gradually builds subject knowledge and skills through clearly defined stages of study and assessment.

A Level Course Structure AS and A2

A Levels are traditionally divided into two stages, allowing students to build knowledge gradually and with increasing depth.

The first year is known as AS Level, which introduces key subject content and helps students develop a solid academic foundation.
The second year is called A2 Level, where students delve deeper into the subject and refine their higher-level analytical and critical thinking skills.

Together, AS and A2 make up the full A Level qualification, allowing students to transition gradually into advanced study while building the skills needed for university learning.

What Is AS Level?

An AS Level represents the first year of A Level study. Following reforms, AS Levels are now a separate qualification in England. They do not usually contribute to the final A Level grade. Some students complete an AS Level and then choose not to continue to A2. Others carry on to complete the full A Level. In Wales and Northern Ireland, AS Level marks may still count towards the final grade. International schools may follow different structures depending on the exam board.

Duration and Study Timeline

Most students study A Levels over two academic years, allowing time to build subject knowledge gradually and prepare for final examinations. A typical study timeline looks like this:

Year 12: Students usually take three or four subjects at AS Level, focusing on core concepts and developing essential academic skills.
Year 13: Students continue with three subjects at A2 Level, where learning becomes more advanced and exam-focused.

Some students also choose to take an additional AS Level in addition to their main subjects. This can support subject exploration, keep future options open, or help create a more balanced timetable.

What Subjects Can You Study at A Level?

A Levels offer a wide range of subjects, giving students the freedom to tailor their studies to their interests, strengths, and future university goals.

Core Academic Subjects

A Levels offer a wide range of academic subjects with no compulsory choices, giving students the flexibility to focus on areas that suit their interests and strengths. Common core subjects include Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, which are often required for science, engineering, medicine, and related university courses.

Humanities, Languages, and Creative Subjects

Students can also choose from a broad selection of humanities, languages, and creative subjects, including English Language and Literature, History, Geography, Economics, Psychology, Law, modern foreign languages, Art and Design, and Information Technology. This variety enables students to develop a well-rounded academic profile that reflects their interests, strengths, and future study plans.

Choosing Subjects Based on University Goals

Subject choice matters. Many university courses have specific A Level requirements, particularly for competitive degrees. For example, medicine often requires chemistry and biology. Engineering usually requires mathematics and physics. Some universities also prefer to facilitate subjects such as mathematics, sciences, history, or languages.

Families are encouraged to check university entry requirements early and discuss subject choices with schools and advisers.

How Are A Levels Assessed and Graded?

A Levels are assessed through a structured combination of examinations and, in some subjects, coursework or practical work, with grades designed to reflect a student’s overall academic performance.

Exams vs Coursework

Most A Level exams are assessed through written examinations taken at the end of the two year course. These final exams carry the greatest weight. Some subjects include coursework. This is more common in subjects such as art, English, or history. The balance between exams and coursework depends on the subject and exam board.

Practical and Non-Exam Assessments

Science subjects often include practical assessments. These may be assessed as a separate practical endorsement rather than contributing directly to the final grade. Students must demonstrate practical competence, but the endorsement is typically reported as either pass or fail, alongside the grade.

A Level Grading System Explained A–E

Grades are based on scaled marks rather than raw percentages. This helps ensure consistency across exam sessions. A Levels are graded from A star to E.

A star is the highest grade
E is the minimum pass
U means ungraded

UCAS Points and University Entry

Each A Level grade carries UCAS tariff points, which some universities use when making offers, with an A star worth 56 points, an A worth 48 points, and a B worth 40 points. While some universities focus on specific grades, others base their offers on total UCAS points, and both approaches are widely used across the UK.

Understanding how A Levels are assessed and graded helps students and parents set realistic expectations and prepare effectively for university entry requirements.

Which Exam Boards Offer A Levels?

Several recognised exam boards offer A Levels, each responsible for setting syllabuses, assessments, and grading standards.

Major UK and International Exam Boards

Several exam boards offer A Levels, each following national standards while differing slightly in assessment style and subject availability. The most commonly used exam boards include:

Cambridge: Widely used in international schools, with a strong emphasis on analytical thinking.
Edexcel: Popular for its clear assessment structure and flexible exam sessions.
AQA: Common in UK schools, offering a broad range of traditional academic subjects.
OCR: Known for its research-based approach and links with UK universities.

International schools often choose Cambridge or Edexcel due to their global recognition, international exam centres, and flexible examination schedules.

Differences Between Exam Boards

Although the qualification title is the same, exam boards vary slightly in their structure, assessment style, and subject availability. Some follow a modular format while others use a fully linear system, and coursework or practical requirements can differ by subject. Schools typically choose an exam board based on their teaching approach, student profile, and available resources.

Knowing the role and differences of A Level exam boards can help families and schools select the option that best supports a student’s learning style and academic goals.

A Levels and University Pathways Worldwide

A Levels are widely recognised by universities across the world and provide students with multiple pathways into higher education in different countries and education systems.

A Levels for UK Universities

A Levels remain one of the main entry qualifications for UK universities, with offers typically made based on predicted grades and confirmed once final exam results are released. Competitive courses often require specific subject combinations and higher grades.

A Levels for US College Applications

In the United States, A Levels are recognised alongside AP programmes and other international qualifications, with universities reviewing subject difficulty, achieved grades, and a student’s overall academic profile. Strong A Level results can therefore support competitive college applications.

A Levels for European Universities

Many European universities accept A Levels as a direct entry qualification, although some programmes may also require additional entrance exams or proof of language proficiency. Families are advised to check country specific and university specific requirements in advance, especially for public institutions.

A Levels for Global and International Universities

Universities in Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and many other regions widely accept A Levels. They are recognised as academically rigorous qualifications that develop subject knowledge, independent study skills, and exam readiness, helping students transition confidently into degree-level study.

How Universities Make Offers Grades Subjects UCAS Tariff

Universities typically assess applications by considering final grades, subject combinations, predicted grades, and UCAS tariff points. Offers may be conditional or unconditional, and students who do not meet their initial offers may still secure a place through Clearing.

Supported by a long-standing academic reputation and broad global recognition, A Levels provide students with clear and trusted pathways to universities in the UK, Europe, the United States, and other regions worldwide.

Why Choose A Levels?

A Levels appeal to many families because they offer a clear, focused academic pathway that supports subject specialisation and university preparation.

Academic Depth and Specialisation

A Levels enable students to build a strong, in-depth understanding of their chosen subjects, which can be reassuring for families whose children already have clear academic interests. The focused structure encourages analytical thinking, independent study, and confidence in subject knowledge.

University Recognition and Admissions Advantages

A Levels are well understood by university admissions teams, which can make the application process clearer and more straightforward for students. Universities are familiar with the academic demands of A Levels and trust them as a strong indicator of a student’s readiness for degree-level study.

A Levels vs Other Pre-University Pathways

Compared with broader programmes such as the IB, A Levels allow students to specialise in fewer subjects, while offering a longer and more in-depth study than AP courses. Each pathway has its own strengths, and the most suitable option depends on the student’s learning style, academic interests, and future goals.

With their depth of study, wide recognition, and flexibility in subject choice, A Levels remain a trusted option for students planning a strong academic future.

Is A Levels the Right Choice for Your Child?

Deciding whether A Levels are the right fit involves considering your child’s learning style, academic strengths, and future study plans.

Skills and Learning Style Needed for Success

Students who tend to excel at A Levels often demonstrate strong organisation, a willingness to revise regularly, confidence in exams, and a genuine interest in developing academic depth in their subjects. Ongoing support from both school and family also plays a crucial role in helping students stay motivated and manage their workload effectively.

Workload and Academic Expectations

A Levels are academically demanding, requiring students to manage independent study, meet deadlines, and prepare carefully for exams. Having a clear understanding of the workload from the outset helps families offer realistic and supportive guidance.

Alternatives to A Levels

Alternatives to A Levels include the International Baccalaureate, AP programmes, vocational qualifications, and national systems such as CBSE or local diplomas. There is no single best option, as the most suitable pathway depends on the child’s strengths, the school environment, and long-term academic and career goals.

By understanding the demands and expectations of A Levels, families can make a thoughtful choice that supports their child’s confidence, well being, and long-term goals.

Get Your Free School Choice Guide Instantly

Selecting a qualification is closely linked to broader school decisions, and many families appreciate having clear comparisons, realistic timelines, and trusted guidance as they explore their options. A well-structured school choice guide can offer clarity, reduce uncertainty, and help parents feel more confident as they plan the next steps in their child’s education. Download your Free School Choice Guide here.

FAQ

Are A Levels accepted internationally?

Yes. A Levels are recognised by universities worldwide, including in the UK, Europe, the US, and many other regions.

How long does it take to complete A Levels?

Most students complete A Levels over two academic years.

What is the difference between AS Level and A Level?

AS Level is the first year of study. A Level is the full two year qualification including A2.

Which subjects are best for university applications?

This depends on the degree. Maths, sciences, and facilitating subjects are often preferred for competitive courses.

Which exam boards provide A Levels?

Common boards include Cambridge, Edexcel, AQA, and OCR.

Are International A Levels harder than UK A Levels?

They are academically equivalent. Differences relate more to assessment style than difficulty.

How do A Levels compare with IB or AP programmes?

A Levels focus on depth and specialisation. IB emphasises breadth. APs offer subject-specific courses often taken alongside a national curriculum.

What skills do students need to succeed in A Levels?

Time management, independent study skills, exam technique, and subject interest are key.

Author Bio

Liz McEwan is a Client Manager at TutorsPlus. She has over 20 years of experience teaching English, study skills and offering student guidance. Originally from the U.K, she now lives in Geneva.