Post 16 Options: A-Levels
23rd February 2026
What are A Levels?
- Academic subjects – focused on ideas, theory and knowledge
- Taught in a classroom environment (including laboratories and workshops)
- Assessed by exam at the end of the second year (occasional coursework)
- Usually study 3 A-levels (OR 1 or 2 A-levels alongside other Level 3 courses)
- Can lead to university, apprenticeships, employment or gap years
How to get A-level decisions right
- Consider the subjects that interest you
- Think about what you are good at
- Identify subjects you might enjoy
- Understand which A-levels are essential for specific degrees or higher/degree apprenticeships, however also know that most degrees do not require any specific subjects
- It is ok to mix it up- taking a contrasting subject shows off other talents
- Be aware of the workload and demands of each subject
- Think carefully about what subjects might best prepare you for what you want to do next
- Know that each University and Degree Apprenticeship employer can set their own entry requirements
- Understand that you may have opportunities to do other things alongside A-levels including Core Maths, Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), Sports Leaders and Duke of Edinburgh Award
Further information and advice
Informed Choices (excellent tool from The Russell Group to support decision-making)
iCould: Choosing A-level Subjects
The Uni Guide: Six things you should know
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