A-level choices

Post-16 qualifications are completed over two years between the ages of 16 and 18. They include A-Levels, BTEC diplomas and apprenticeships. Some people study them alongside GCSEs, for example, if they have to resit their Maths or English. 

Instant Expert: Find all about post-16 learning choices from the National Careers Service. 

Which A-levels are available?

There is a very wide range of subjects available to A-level students. 

Most schools and colleges offer standard subjects such as:

1. Sciences
2. Maths
3. English
4. Languages
5. History

If you want to study more unusual subjects, you may need to seek out a learning provider which offers them.

Instant Expert: A full comprehensive list of A-level subjects can be found on the AQA website.

Maths and English

If you have not gained your Maths or English at GCSE at level 4 or above, you will need to continue studying them alongside your post-16 qualifications or apprenticeship. Your place of learning or employer will you support you to do this. 

Crucial: You can also study for these level 2 qualifications at a Further Education College.

Deciding what to study

Depending on what you want to study at university, you may need to study particular subjects. 

For some subjects, it will not matter which A-Level you do. But others will need you to have specific A-levels. You can find these on the UCAS website.

What job do you want?

You can study things that prepare you for a job directly, or you can keep your options open. 

Talk to your Careers Lead at your place of learning or visit the National Careers Service to explore your options with an advisor. 

What do you enjoy?  

Some people are motivated to work harder on subjects they enjoy. But most subjects become more interesting the more you study them. 

Many people choose to study things they are interested in, whether or not they enjoy them. 

Where to study 

Many students stay at their current school for post-16 learning. But you can also change school, go to a UTC or Studio School, or go to a further education college. 

Alternative options 

If A-levels are not the best choice for you there are lots of other options such as an apprenticeship, traineeship, or BTEC level 3 qualifications. These options do not stop you progressing on to university. 

Find out about all your post-16 options. 

After A-Levels

A-levels are good way to get into university.

They can take you on to an apprenticeship, internship, higher education, or work. There are many options, which you can find more information about on the higher education page.

Written by Jacob, Work Experience student.