AS and A Levels

AS (Advanced Subsidiary) and A (Advanced) level qualifications focus on traditional study skills. They normally take two years to complete. A levels are made up of the AS level (one year) and A2 (one year).

You can choose from a wide range of academic subjects, as well as some 'applied' (work-related) subjects. There are about 80 AS and A level subjects available. You can continue with subjects taken in Years 10 and 11 and/or take new ones.

Most students studying for A levels take three or four AS levels in their first year. This means you can keep your options open about which subjects to study as a full A level.

In most cases, you need at least five GCSEs at grades A*-C. Sometimes, you need a grade B or above at GCSE in a particular subject to take it at AS or A level. Some schools and colleges also ask that you have GCSE grade C or above in English and maths.

AS level

The AS level can be either a free standing qualification, or be valued as the first half of the full A level.

Year two: the A2

In year two of a full A level, you take the A2 - this is not a separate qualification, but the second half of the A level. The A2 is designed to deepen the knowledge you gained during the AS level.

Vocational A levels

There is also a range of vocational A levels, called 'applied GCEs'. There are 10 subjects, offering a broad introduction to a vocational area such as business or tourism.

Further Information

If you need any extra info about AS or A levels, check out this page on the Direct.gov.uk website.