What are A Levels?

A levels are studied typically between the ages of 16 - 18 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, although mature students are also encouraged. They remain the most popular route into UK higher education institutions.

How many subjects do I take?

To gain entry to a top UK university you’ll need 3 or 4 good A Level grades, although if you’re exceptionally talented you can take 5 subjects.

What subjects can I study?

There is a broad range of A levels for you to choose from, including Business, Science, Arts and Humanities subjects. At Bellerbys we encourage you to study the subjects you'll enjoy. However, we recommend the following choices in preparation for specific degree areas:

• Science, Medicine and Engineering: Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
• Business, Humanities and Law: Maths, Economics, Accountancy, Business Studies, English Literature and Psychology.

At Bellerbys you can also choose any of the following as one or more of your 4 subjects:

• Art, Geography, Graphic Design, History, Information Computing Technology, Law, Photography, Politics, Sociology and Media Studies.

What do A Levels consist of?

Each A Level consists of 6 units which are studied in two stages:

• Stage 1 – Advanced Subsidiary (AS) level: You’ll study 3 modules and upon completion you’ll be awarded an AS Level.
• Stage 2 – A2 level: You’ll study the second set of 3 units which will take your AS level to a full A Level.

Please note: When you have completed the A2 Level, your AS Level grade is transferred to one A Level grade. If you decide not to continue to A2 Level, you can keep your AS Level grade. This can still be used as part of your application to university.

What do my grades mean?

For each A Level subject you take, you’ll receive a grade from A – E. The entrance requirements for the university courses you’ve applied for will be expressed as either:

• Grades: AAB, BCC or CCC for example.
• A UCAS Tariff score: 360, 300 or 280 for example. You can translate your predicted A Level and AS Level grades into UCAS tariff points below:

Many companies will also evaluate your application for a job on the basis of your A Level grades, as well as your degree.

What else will I gain from taking A Levels?

In addition to academic study, the aim of A level study is to develop important competences: Independent thinking, study skills, team working, research and analysis. It will also help you to decide what you would like to study at degree level.