What Are A Levels?
A Levels, short for Advanced Level qualifications, are subject-based qualifications that most students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland take at ages 16 to 18, after GCSEs. They are the standard route into university for many applicants and are studied over two years in school sixth forms, sixth form colleges and further education colleges. Scotland uses Highers and Advanced Highers instead.
How A Levels work
Students normally choose three subjects, such as mathematics, chemistry and economics, though some take more or fewer. Subjects are studied in depth, with typically four or five hours of lessons per week in each, plus independent study. Assessment is mostly by final exams at the end of the two years, with coursework or practical endorsements in some subjects, such as sciences, art and some languages.
Some schools also offer AS Levels, which are one-year qualifications that can stand alone, and some students take the Extended Project Qualification alongside.
Grading
A Levels are graded from A* (the highest) to E, and a U means ungraded. Universities typically make conditional offers, such as AAB, which means grade A in two subjects and a B in one. Some offers also name subjects. A Levels are also given points under the UCAS Tariff.
Choosing subjects
Think about what you enjoy and do well in, the courses you might apply for and any required subjects. Medicine often needs chemistry and another science, engineering often requires mathematics and physics, and some universities list preferred or facilitating subjects. Check entry requirements before choosing.
A Levels around the world
A Levels are available through several exam boards, and many international schools offer them, making the qualification a route to UK universities and others. Universities in many countries recognize A Levels for admission and sometimes advanced standing.
Compared with other qualifications
A Levels are more specialized than the International Baccalaureate, which requires six subjects, or the US high school diploma with AP courses. BTEC and T Levels are alternative qualifications with a more vocational focus, and they can also lead to higher education.
Related terms
See predicted grades, UCAS Tariff points, IB Diploma, contextual offer and baccalaureate.
Frequently asked questions
How many A Levels do students usually take?
Typically three, taken over two years, though some students take two or four. The number and combination depend on the course they hope to study.
How are A Levels graded?
From A* to E, with U for ungraded. Universities set offers in grades, such as AAB, or in UCAS Tariff points.
Do international students take A Levels?
Yes. Many schools worldwide teach A Levels through exam boards, and the qualification is recognized by universities in many countries.