It is said that A-Level is suitable for biased students, but this brings a problem: A-Level has more than 70 courses to choose from, 3-4, which is to drive dyslexia crazy! However, the courses you choose have a bearing on your future A-level grades, the subject you study at university, and even your future employment! You can say that choosing your A-Levels is the first step towards your career path. How do you choose the best A-Level combination to get admitted to a UK university? In this blog, we recommend 17 of the best A-Level combinations to increase your probability of getting into your ideal university.
A-Level Programme Classification
The more than 70 courses at A-Level are mainly divided into:
- Core foundation courses: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Geography.
- Extensions to the core foundation programmes: sociology, human biology, human physiology, etc.
- Introductory courses in social sciences: history, philosophy, languages, political science, economics, etc.
- Applied sciences: computers, data/word processing, electronics, etc.; and
- Art and design programmes: e.g. music, art, pottery.
- Basic knowledge and skills: e.g. business studies, European studies, general studies, etc.
How many A-Levels is appropriate?
Every university will require students to study 3 A-Levels (except General Studies) as an essential requirement for an Offer. Some students will apply to universities with 4-5 A Levels.
Except for applying to specific colleges in Oxford and Cambridge, students are generally not disadvantaged by taking only three A-Levels.
It is much better to choose three A-Levels and try your best to get good grades than to choose too many subjects and get poor grades; A-Level selection is about quality rather than quantity.
Principles of course selection
Choose the subjects you are interested in. Different students are good at other subjects and are interested in various subjects. If you choose a subject you like and are interested in, You can spend time studying it in depth.
Choose a subject you are good at. Sometimes, liking a subject and being good at it is different. For example, some students like math, but their logical thinking skills are relatively weak, and their math results are mediocre. If other subjects are better in terms of performance, consider switching to a subject that you are better at. After all, it is the actual results that you will need to apply for in the end.
Choose according to the requirements of the target institutions. If you have a target institution and a major, you can browse the official website of the professional requirements, which are indicated as compulsory or recommended subjects. Avoid the list of non-advantageous subjects given by the school so that you can be more targeted when applying to that university.
Popular A-Level Subject Combinations
Computer Science, Physics, Maths
With the rapid advancement of science and technology today, computer science is highly valued in universities. Every university needs students who can adapt to the new age. Combining A-Level Computer Science with Maths and Physics will show universities that you are a logical thinker. Computer Science, Physics and Maths give you a wider choice of subjects to study at university. Students with these A-level grades are likely to choose university courses such as astronomy, computer science, or more advanced courses.
Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science
This subject combination is helpful for those who are interested in pursuing a science and engineering course at university. This A-level subject combination can prove that you study hard, have an excellent logical system of thinking, and can handle heavy work and challenging content. But while this A-level subject combination can put you in accessible mode for the university application stage, top UK universities also require higher grades in these subjects. And they are all challenging to learn, with only the most talented students succeeding.
Computer Science, Graphic Design, Art
This A-level subject combination is ideal for students pursuing a career in graphic design or video game animation. This A-level subject combination combines logical thinking with artistic creativity to show that you can apply your knowledge to anything. Many universities prefer this creative student and, at the same time, a rigorous logical thinker. Many universities favour Computer Science, and combining it with a creative subject can allow you to study some exciting university course options.
History, Economics, Politics
History, Economics, and Politics are closely related subjects. UK universities like to see this combination of A-level subjects in their admissions, and students who study this combination are highly employable after graduating. However, this combination of A-level subjects can be applied to a narrow range of university specialisms and is mainly suitable for students who intend to use for social science subjects.
Business Studies, Economics, Maths
Such a combination of A-level subjects is beneficial if you want to apply for Accounting, Economics or any other relevant university course. Both Business and Economics are subjects that enhance your knowledge. Maths is a supporting course that will make it easier for you to apply to those top universities. This combination of subjects combines literacy and maths skills, which various UK universities highly value. Universities like students with a wide range of talents and subject knowledge, and this A-Level subject combination will fulfil these criteria. A-Level subject combinations sound like you’re studying at a business school, and students who study these A-Levels usually go on to study economics or business-related degrees.
FAQ
An A-level course is a prestigious and globally recognized pre-university program originating in the United Kingdom. A-level courses typically span two years, with AS Levels (Advanced Subsidiary Levels) completed in the first year, followed by the A2 Levels in the second year. Students usually select three or four subjects that align with their future academic and career aspirations.
What age group is the A level?
A-Level courses are designed for students typically aged 16 to 18 years old. This age group is a crucial period in a student’s educational journey, marking the transition from high school to higher education.
Is IB more challenging than A-level?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) and A-Level are rigorous academic programs, each with unique strengths and challenges. The IB program is typically more comprehensive than A-Levels, offering a more balanced education. On the other hand, A-level courses allow students to specialize in three to four subjects of their choice, providing depth of knowledge in these areas.
