A-Level Courses

What Is an A-Level Qualification?

A-Level qualifications are academic qualifications equivalent to Level 3 qualifications. They are often taken by students between ages 16 and 18 for two years in sixth form colleges in the UK. However, they can be taken by students at any age particularly through distance learning. They are equivalent to other more vocational courses such as a Level 3 NVQ or BTEC and are the level just before the first year of an undergraduate degree, HNC (higher national certificate) or HND (higher national diploma). There are a variety of A Level subjects you can study including:

• Maths
• English Language
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Art
• Sociology
• Business Studies
• Media Studies
• Computer Science 

As well as a variety of other academic and creative subjects. A-Levels tend to be more academic than vocational qualifications such as hairdressing, animal care or engineering; all of which concentrate more on practical skills than theoretical knowledge.

Why Undertake an A-Level Qualification?

A-Levels are a fantastic qualification to have, whether it is to expand your knowledge, for your career or for further study. Most job applications require employees to have either GCSE grades, GCE or A-Level qualifications, and many universities also have A-Levels as the main entry requirement. A-Level qualifications are more in-depth than GCSE’s, and are a fantastic way to build knowledge in an area you are interested in.

Careers and Further Study

Once you obtain your A-Level qualification, you can explore further study or career options. Many universities and higher education colleges have specific requirements in terms of your final grades and subjects you have studied, so be sure to check this before choosing your A-Level qualification/s. As for jobs, most entry-level job roles don’t mind which subject/s you have studied but do require a GCSE or A-Level qualification. Explore career options before deciding what you want to study. 

Is Any Funding Available for my A-Level?

Yes! You can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan, which helps you pay for your tuition fees. You can apply for up to 4 loans at any time, so you can fund up to 4 A Level courses. These loans are available for individuals over the age of 19 living in the UK, however, there are funding options for international A-Level students also. You will be funded for a maximum of 2 years. There is also a range of payment plans you can choose from depending on your course.

How Can I Study an A-Level?

You can study either at a local college, sixth form college or through distance learning. The great thing about studying online, is that you can study in your own time and at your own pace. They cover the same syllabus as in-class study with coursework, exams provided by awarding bodies such as AQA and UCAS points to help you progress in further study or work. Whether you decide to study through distance learning, in-class or a blend of each, you can apply online.

Entry Requirements: The entry requirements vary depending on what subject you study. Some A levels require a GCSE in the subject and/or have a grade requirement (such as maths or chemistry), others just require a secondary school education. Many courses, however, have no entry requirements making them super accessible.   

Length of Study: Full A Level courses usually take 2 years to complete if studying full time. The first year counts as an AS Level (advanced subsidiary) which is worth less than UCAS points and is at a slightly lower level. You can also choose to study part-time or in some cases enrol on a fast-track course and study a one year course.