What are A Levels?
A Levels, short for Advanced Levels, are a set of qualifications offered by exam boards in the United Kingdom and other countries. These qualifications are taken by students in the final two years of secondary school, typically ages 16-18. A Levels are equivalent to the final year of high school in the United States and are considered essential for university entry in the UK.
What are A Levels used for?
A Levels are primarily used for university admissions. Universities in the UK and many other countries use A Level results to determine a student's suitability for a particular course. A Level grades are also used for other purposes such as:
- Applying for apprenticeships
- Gaining entry into higher education colleges
- Progressing to further study after a gap year
- Improving career prospects
What subjects can you take at A Level?
There is a wide range of subjects available at A Level, covering a variety of academic disciplines. Some popular subjects include:
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Further Maths
- Humanities: History, Geography, English Literature, Economics
- Languages: French, German, Spanish, Mandarin
- Arts: Art, Drama, Music, Design and Technology
Students typically choose 3-4 subjects to study at A Level, depending on their interests and future career aspirations.
What are the benefits of studying A Levels?
There are many benefits to studying A Levels. Some of the key benefits include:
- Developing strong academic skills: A Levels require students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills.
- Gaining in-depth knowledge: A Levels provide a deep understanding of a particular subject area.
- Preparing for university study: A Levels are a strong foundation for further study at university.
- Improving career prospects: A Levels can open doors to a wider range of career opportunities.
What are the requirements for taking A Levels?
To take A Levels, students must have achieved a certain level of academic achievement at GCSE level. The specific requirements will vary depending on the school and the subject.
How are A Levels graded?
A Levels are graded on a scale from A* to E, with A* being the highest grade and E being the lowest passing grade. Grades are awarded based on examinations taken at the end of the two-year course.
A Levels are a rigorous and challenging qualification, but they can be extremely rewarding. They provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen field.