A-Level Subject Choices — A-Levels or Advanced Levels are widely recognised qualifications meant for students in the age group of 16-19 for post secondary education, particularly within the UK and countries influenced by the British Education System.
A-Levels are conducted by the Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) mostly. They are a globally recognised pre-university qualification that are typically studied over 18 months. The flexibility in A-Level subject choices is what sets them apart as students get to tailor their studies to their chosen academic and career goals.
This article will guide you through the best subject combinations that you can select based on your future aspirations.
How To Choose A-Level Subjects
It’s easy to select subjects of your choice randomly, but selecting them wisely takes a planned approach and can make a substantial difference in your academic and career path. Here’s what Ascend Now has to recommend on A-Level subject choices –
Choose Subjects Based On Your Interests
The subjects you choose have to be studied for 18 months, to say the least. So go for A-Level subject choices that you are passionate about and interest you. This will help keep you engaged and motivated. We also recommend choosing a subject that may fuel your curiosity in a certain field, even if you haven’t studied it earlier.
Consider Subjects That Are Your Strong Points
Subjects that you have been excelling in, are naturally your strengths. A-Level requirements for top universities include high grades like A* or A in A-Levels. Choosing subjects that would ensure better grades would hence, lead you to more options for the future.
Opt For Subjects Based on Your Future Goals
Some university courses require specific A-levels as a mandate. Research the university requirements for courses you have been aspiring to join to tick all the boxes to qualify for them. If you’re not too sure, think of a potential career goal and try to align your A-Level subject choices as per them. In case you are totally lost, keep your options wide and open. Go for A-Level subject choices that will give you a wide range of university options.
Stay Informed & Up-To-Date
Talk to teachers and counsellors to get valuable insights into A-Level subjects. You can choose to attend trial sessions in different subjects to get a clearer idea about them. Research subject content to understand what each subject covers before making the final A-Level subject choices.
Challenge Yourself, But Be Realistic
It’s all about learning new things, after all. Choosing only easy subjects might get boring and dull. You must challenge yourself by picking up subjects that interest you, but might not be a cakewalk. At the same time, we recommend you to be realistic about your abilities and interests and not jump into the bandwagon by making ‘popular’ A-Level subject choices.
Other Deciding Factors
Other factors to be considered include ‘Subject Combinations’. Some subject combinations have an edge over others, so by force you may have to take up a subject to suit your long-term goals. Sometimes an institution may not offer a particular subject and you may have to compromise on that front. Also, while making A-Level subject choices, we recommend that you avoid taking up two very similar subjects (for example – Business Studies and Economics).
A-Level Subjects Guide
A-Levels offer a wide range of subjects to choose from, allowing you to specialise in areas that interest you. Some subjects may vary based on the schools and colleges but here’s a breakdown of some of the popular A-Level subjects –
| Discipline/Course | Subjects Offered |
|---|---|
| SciencesIt focuses on the natural world and its phenomena. | Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Computer Science |
| HumanitiesIt explores human culture, history and thoughts. | English Literature, History, Geography, Economics, Politics, Psychology, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Philosophy |
| Social SciencesIt studies human society and behaviour. | Economics, Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Law, Business Studies |
| ArtsIt focuses on creative expression and appreciation of aesthetics. | Art & Design, Music, Drama and Theatre Studies, Film Studies |
| LanguagesIt is the study of languages, their cultures and ancient civilisations. | Modern Foreign Languages (French, German, Spanish etc.), Classical Languages (Latin, Greek) |
Benefits Of Different A-Level Subjects
| Discipline/Subject | Benefits | Some Career Paths |
|---|---|---|
| SciencesBiology Chemistry Physics Mathematics & Further Mathematics | Develops analytical & problem-solving skills, understanding living systems. Develops strong analytical & problem-solving skills, understanding of matter & its properties. Develops strong analytical & problem-solving skills, understanding of fundamental principles of the universe. Develops logical reasoning, problem-solving, analytical skills.Further Mathematics’ benefits include demonstration of strong commitment and mathematical abilities. | Doctor, Nurse, Biologist, Zoologist, Ecologist, Geneticist, Immunologist Chemist, Chemical Engineer, Pharmacist, Doctor, Materials Scientist Physicist, Engineer (various disciplines), Computer Scientist, Astrophysicist Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary, Engineer, Computer Scientist, Economist, more specialised roles with Further Mathematics |
| HumanitiesEnglish Literature History Geography | Develops critical thinking, analytical and communication skills Teaches research, analytical and essay writing skills, understanding of different cultures and societies It’s a good blend of science and social sciences. Develops understanding of human and physical environments. | Writer, journalist, editor, teacher, lawyer Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Journalist, Teacher Geographer, Environmental Consultant, Urban Planner, Teacher |
| Social SciencesEconomics Politics Psychology Sociology | Develops understanding of economic principles and markets work. Relevant for careers in finance, business and government. Examines political systems and ideologies. Develops an understanding of how power is exercised and decisions are made. Explores human mind and its behaviour. Relevant for careers in mental health, education and human resources. Studies society and social behaviour. Examines social structures, inequalities and social change. | Economist, Financial Analyst, Accountant, Business Consultant Politician, Political Advisor, Civil Servant, Journalist Psychologist, Therapist, Counsellor, Teacher, HR Professional Sociologist, Social worker, Researcher, Policy Analyst |
| ArtsArt & Design Music Drama & Theatre Studies | Develops creative and technical skills in different art forms Studies music theory, history & performance, cultivates appreciation for music and creativity Examines the theory and practice of drama and theatre, Develops communication, teamwork and performance skills. | Artist, Designer, Illustrator, Photographer Musician, Composer, Music Teacher Actor, Director, Theatre Technician, Teacher |
| Languages | Develops fluency and understanding of a foreign language and its culture. It’s beneficial in an increasingly globalised world. | Translator, Interpreter, Teacher, International Business Professional |
Best A-Level Subjects For University
There are no definite or best A-Level subjects for university. But there are subjects that are highly regarded and can open your doors to a wide range of opportunities and courses. These subjects facilitate your chances at universities, especially in the more competitive ones by demonstrating strong academic skills. They include Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English Literature, History, Geography and Modern & Classical Languages. They are preferred as they –
- Provide a strong foundation.
- Cultivate essential skills like critical thinking, problem solving and analytical skills.
- Demonstrate that you are capable of handling challenging academic content.
- Generally are a part of A-Level requirements for top universities.
The most popular A-Level subjects based on recent trends in the UK include Mathematics, Psychology, Biology, Chemistry, History, Sociology, Business Studies, Art & Design, Physics and Economics. We would like to reiterate that you must do your research on the subjects and figure out your interests and career goals, based on which you can make your A-Level subject choices. Let’s take a look at three of the most common fields – Medicine, Law and Engineering, and the A-Level subjects required for them.
Choosing A-Level Subjects For Medicine
A-Level subject choices is the first crucial step for Medicine and related fields. Here’s what Ascend Now recommends for students in order to gain fundamental scientific knowledge required for Medical Schools –
- Chemistry – Chemistry is an essential subject for students aiming for Medical Schools. Chemistry is the foundation of understanding about biochemical processes and how drugs work, so it is an absolute must-have in your A-Levels.
- Biology – Another highly recommended subject for Medical Schools is Biology. It’s all about understanding the human body, diseases that affect its normal functioning and how life processes work together to keep us going.
- Physics or Mathematics – While these subjects may not be mandatory, they are highly regarded by most medical schools as they help students develop problem-solving, logical reasoning and analytical skills. They can understand medical technologies like X-rays, MRI scans better or use their data analysis skills to understand statistics, drug dosages etc.
A-Level Combinations For Law
Top recommendations for A-Level combinations for aspiring lawyers are –
- English Literature – English literature helps develop your critical reading, writing and analytical skills alongside training you to dissect complex texts, develop arguments and communicate effectively – all essential in law.
- History – Studying history develops your research skills along with teaching you to evaluate evidence, analyse past events, understand various perspectives and also develops your essay-writing abilities with we;;-supported arguments.
- Politics – Politics teaches you the intricacies of political systems, ideologies and how laws are made. It teaches you to explore the relationship between law and society.
- Other Useful Choices – Other strong and useful choices, though not mandatory, include Law, Economics, Sociology and Psychology.
- Law – A-Level law gives an early introduction to legal concepts and the legal system.
- Economics – It develops your analytical and problem-solving skills and how markets and societies function, which can be useful for commercial law and to understand the economic impact of legal decisions.
- Sociology – It explores social pressure, behaviour and problems associated with matters of law, social justice, crime etc.
- Psychology – Among the A-Level subject choices for law is psychology that helps you understand human behaviour that can be useful in criminal law, family law and so on.
A-Level Subjects For Engineering
Here’s a breakdown of the most important A-Levels for Engineering aspirants –
- Mathematics and Physics – Mathematics and Physics are the essential A-Level subjects for Engineering. Engineering is based on mathematical principles and Physics is essential for most engineering disciplines, providing foundation for understanding basic concepts like forces, motion, energy and types of energy and so on.
- Further Mathematics – Further Mathematics is a highly recommended A-Level subject for Engineering if you are considering mathematically intensive engineering fields like aerospace, electrical or electronic engineering.
3. Other Useful Choices – Some of the useful A-Level subject choices for Engineering include –
- Chemistry – Chemistry is a relevant A-Level subject for students planning to pursue chemical engineering, materials science and related fields.
- Design and Technology – Studying design and technology will help students understand the process of design that includes developing a concept, prototyping, testing and finally producing a product.
- Computer Science – Computer Science is a valuable skill in every discipline of engineering particularly in software engineering, computer engineering, robotics etc.
Let’s Summarise The Tips For Selecting A-Level Subjects
- Balance the wisdom of your mind with the passion of your heart.
- Make your A-Level subject choices to facilitate you towards your future goals.
- Take into consideration the desired universities’ requirements.
- Unsure about the future? Keep your options open by choosing a varied mix of subjects.
- Choose subjects based on your abilities, strengths, workload and preferred learning styles.
6. Don’t rush or make decisions due to any kind of pressure.
7. Reflect on the pros and cons of each subject before making the A-Level subject choices.
8. Talk to teachers, parents and counsellors to get valuable insights and feedback.
Confused About A-Level Subject Choices? Ascend Now is here to help!
A-levels are highly regarded by universities worldwide and they focus on in-depth study of 3-4 chosen subjects, ideal for those with clear academic interests. It offers flexibility in subject combinations and students can tailor their studies to specific academic and career goals. Register with Ascend Now for a tailored study plan and subject selection guidance. We provide detailed feedback guidance, strategic exam training and procrastination solutions to keep your studies on track!
