1. A university based perspective
Choosing A-Levels
A university based perspective

2. 1. Only choose subjects you like 2. Choose those you are good at
Golden Rules
1. Only choose subjects you like
2. Choose those you are good at
3. It is YOUR choice, not you parents or teachers
they can offer good advice

3. Required Subjects
Many (but not all) courses expect you to have studied that specific subject at A-level
Languages, Sciences, History, etc
Maths – Maths, Computing, Physics, Engineering, some Economics, Chemistry
Chemistry/Biology – Medicine, Dentistry, Vet Medicine, Pharmacy
Portfolio – Art/Tech
Do your own research

4. Facilitating Subjects
Mathematics (and Further Mathematics)
English literature
History
Geography
Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Modern and Classical Languages

5. Studying Arts/Social Sciences at University
Keystone Subjects
English Literature, History, Languages, Maths, and Geography
Combination Subjects
Economics, Further Maths, PRE, additional language, any science, English Language

6. Studying Sciences Keystone Subjects Combination Subjects
Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology
Combination Subjects
Further Maths
Most candidates interested in a science based career will take a combination of 3 of the above.

7. Not sure?
You will take to take either a combination of the following to keep your options open
Maths/Physics
Chemistry/Biology
You can take a any humanities subject in combination with these bearing in mind the following courses will require you to study that subject at A level
English, History, Geography, Languages

8. Further Mathematics
This is a strongly facilitating subject if you want to study the following at a highly competitive university
Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Computing, Actuarial Studies, and some Economics courses.
It is not facilitating for any other course.

9. “Non-facilitating” subjects
Not often specifically required even for the equivalent course at university
Psychology, Economics, Sociology, Government and Politics, Computing, ICT, Design and Technology, PE
However you will be expected to show an interest in the subject you are applying for in your personal statement. Studying it is the best way to do this.

10. Specific Cases Music Art Law Required for Music
Performance ability may also be required
Art
Portfolio based courses (including some Architecture courses)
Law
Almost all candidates will have History and/or English

11. Scotland
First year (of 4) often general at approximately A-level standard
Less prescriptive on choice of A-levels
Exception to this is competitive professional courses like
Medicine, Vet Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering
Here requirements will more closely match England and Wales

12. Research Subject Matters (University of Cambridge)
Informed Choices (Russell Group)