Alevels

A levels, or A-Level, are subject-focused qualifications taken by many students in the United Kingdom and various other countries as the standard route to higher education. Typically studied over two years by students aged 16 to 18, they form the second stage of secondary education in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, the corresponding qualifications are Highers and Advanced Highers, with a separate system.

Students usually select three to four subjects to study in depth. Core content is examined at the end of the course in final examinations at the end of the second year, with some subjects including practical assessments (especially in science subjects) and occasional coursework. Since reforms in the 2010s, most A-levels are linear, with exams at the end of the two-year program; AS-levels were decoupled from A-levels and no longer contribute to the final A-level grade in England’s system.

Grading uses A* to E, with U for ungraded. A common preparation for higher education is the UCAS framework; universities generally publish grade offers (for example AAB) and may require specific subjects for certain courses. A-levels are offered by UK examination boards such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR, and CCEA, and are also available internationally.

Some students pursue international or non-UK versions, like International A-levels, taught by Cambridge International Examinations or Edexcel, which are recognized by universities around the world. The A-level qualification remains a key pathway to undergraduate study, though other qualifications (vocational diplomas, the International Baccalaureate) can also lead to university admission.