A-Level Qualification: Subjects, Format, Grades, and Assessment
Have you ever dreamed of studying at the likes of Harvard, Stanford, or Cambridge? For ambitious students like you, A-levels might serve as a stepping stone to the pinnacle of higher education. But what exactly are A-levels, and why do they matter? While most of you have heard the term, many of you remain unclear about the specifics.
In this blog, we’ll be your comprehensive guide to simplifying A-levels. We’ll explain the basics clearly, leaving no room for confusion.
What are A-Levels?
Advanced Levels (commonly called A Levels) are subject-based qualifications taken by students aged 16 and above in the final two years before university. These UK-based qualifications are widely accepted for university entrance worldwide, with most institutions requiring a minimum of three A-levels.
While offered globally, A-levels are assessed through examinations in the UK. Though standalone AS Levels (equivalent to the first year of A Levels) were introduced, reforms between 2016 and 2018 made them separate qualifications. Currently, most universities require full A-levels for admission.
What Subjects Can You Study in A-Level?
Offering flexibility and personalization, A-levels allow students to tailor their studies to their interests and aspirations. With no required subjects, students typically choose three from a diverse range, including English Language & Literature, French, Maths, Sciences, History, Geography, Psychology, Economics, Art, and IT, alongside various Modern Foreign Languages. While specific offerings may vary by school, it’s recommended to refer to the CIE website in advance for a comprehensive list.
Cambridge vs. Edexcel
Two main exam boards offer A-levels: Pearson Edexcel and Cambridge International. Each caters to different preferences and needs.
- Pearson Edexcel A-levels are widely recognized in the UK and follow a modular structure. This allows students to retake individual modules to improve their subject grades, offering flexibility and the potential for strategic improvement. Exams are typically held in May and November.
- Cambridge International A-levels, on the other hand, offer a wider range of subjects and flexible combinations, catering to diverse interests and study goals. These qualifications are internationally recognized, making them ideal for students planning to study abroad. Additionally, Cambridge International offers opportunities for non-native English speakers to show their proficiency, a valuable asset for university applications in the UK and beyond.
A-Level Qualification Format and Structure
A-levels are a two-year qualification divided into AS Level (Year 1) and A2 Level (Year 2).
- The AS Level provides a foundation in various subjects and can stand alone as a qualification. Students typically take 4–5 AS Level subjects in their second-to-last year of high school.
- In the final year, they progress to 3–4 of those subjects for the A2 Level, building upon and deepening their knowledge. Additionally, they often take extra AS-level subjects in different areas to broaden their academic experience, though these won’t contribute to their final A-level grade.
Typical timeline for international A-level students:
- Second-to-last year: 4–5 AS Level subjects
- Final year: 3–4 A2 Level subjects + additional AS Level subjects (not counted for A-Level)
Note: While this is the standard trajectory, aiming for top US universities might require exceeding 4 A-level subjects to stand out among competitive applicants.
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How are A-Levels Assessed?
Most Edexcel and Cambridge AS and A Level subjects rely on external assessment through exams offered at different times.
- Cambridge: June and November
- Edexcel: June, October, and January
Students typically take one set of exams at the end of each level (AS and A2). However, CGA’s Edexcel International A Levels stand out by offering three exam dates, providing more flexibility and chances for improvement.
Additionally, Edexcel’s mark schemes are generally considered more detailed, giving students clearer guidance on how to earn marks compared to Cambridge’s schemes.
In science subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, a key difference lies in practical assessments:
- Cambridge International AS Level sciences require students to complete practical exams under exam conditions, potentially impacting grades if adequate practice facilities are unavailable.
- Edexcel A Levels, on the other hand, are more theoretical and do not include practical exams, offering a more consistent assessment experience.
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How are A-Levels Graded?
Cambridge
For Cambridge students, the grading system involves two stages: AS Levels and A Levels. During AS exams, students receive a percentage grade, but there are no A* grades awarded at this stage.
Once they complete both AS and A2 Levels (collectively known as A-levels), their final A-level grade is calculated as the average of their AS and A2 Level grades combined. This final A-level grade can then be awarded an A* if it meets the relevant criteria.
Edexcel
Edexcel students receive letter grades after completing examinations at the end of each module, as shown in the table below. Their final overall grade is calculated as a weighted average of the grades they achieve in all modules across both the AS and A2 levels, using specific weights defined in each subject’s syllabus available online.
| A Level Grade | Percentage |
|---|---|
| A* | 90% + |
| A | 80-89% |
| B | 70-79% |
| C | 60-69% |
| D | 50-59% |
| E | 40-49% |
| U (Ungraded) | 0-40% |
While the percentage grade boundaries for international AS and A levels might seem daunting, you’ll be relieved to know that achieving a specific grade on your report card doesn’t require scoring a perfect 90% or even 70%. This is thanks to the “scaling” system employed by these exams.
Here’s how it works: your raw marks (the number of questions you answered correctly) are converted into “Percentage Uniform Marks” using a scaling process. This process considers how other students performed on the same exam, ensuring a fair comparison and often resulting in an upward adjustment of your raw marks. This scaling determines the A*-E grade displayed on your certificate, accurately reflecting your performance relative to your peers.
For complete transparency, exam boards like Edexcel and Cambridge publish the grade thresholds (minimum marks required for each grade) after each exam session on their websites.
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What is a Good A-Level Grade?
For students aiming for the top 30 universities worldwide, consistently achieving A or A* grades in their chosen academic pathways is crucial. If you’re considering US universities specifically, remember that Advanced Placement (AP) exams are the American equivalent to A-levels, offering a pathway to show college-level readiness.
What Happens on A Levels Results Day?
The A-level results for 2024 will be released on Thursday, August 15th, at 8:00 AM. You can then access your results through your chosen exam board’s website or platform. There are several possibilities after receiving your results:
- Met or exceeded predicted grades: Congratulations! If your UCAS Hub status updates, you’ll receive confirmation from your chosen university. Now relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead!
- Missed predicted grades: Don’t worry, there are still options:
- Unconditional offer: Your firm choice might still accept you.
- Unconditional Changed Course (UCC): The university might offer a similar course with lower grade requirements or a deferred start date. You have 5 days to decide after a discussion with the university.
- Insurance offer: You can accept your backup insurance offer.
- Unsuccessful: If none of the above applies, you can enter Clearing, retake your A-levels, or reapply next year.
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From the Desk of Yocket
A-Level exams are standardized qualifications taken by students in the UK and some other countries after they have completed their GCSEs. They are typically two years long and are considered to be equivalent to the first year of undergraduate study. A-level exams are assessed in a variety of ways, including written exams, coursework, and practical assessments.
Some people believe that they are a valuable qualification that helps students develop their academic skills and knowledge. However, others believe that the intense pressure and workload associated with A-levels can be challenging. Students face long hours of studying, balancing multiple subjects, and dealing with the stress of high-stakes exams. This can lead to anxiety and exhaustion and potentially hinder the enjoyment of learning itself.
Since you are a student who is studying for the A-level exam, it is important to stay focused and motivated. There are many resources available to help you prepare for the exam, and it is important to make use of these resources as much as possible. If you are a parent or teacher who is concerned about the A-level exam, it is important to talk to your children or students about their worries and anxieties. It is also important to provide them with support and encouragement. Yocket is here to help you navigate through your A-level journey, providing valuable assistance and resources to enhance your preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are A-Levels?
A-levels are advanced-level qualifications typically taken in the UK after completing GCSEs. They’re considered the “gold standard” for university entrance and demonstrate deeper subject knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Are there any specific subject requirements for A-levels?
No compulsory subjects are required for the A-levels. However, some universities require specific facilitating subjects (e.g., Math, English, Science) for certain courses.
Who can take the A-levels?
You typically need at least five GCSEs in grades 9–4 (A*–C) to take A-levels, with specific subject requirements varying by school or college.