A-levels (Advanced Levels) and AS-levels (Advanced Subsidiary Levels) are academic qualifications taken by students in the United Kingdom and some other countries. They are typically taken by students between the ages of 16 and 18, after completing their General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exams.
A-levels are considered the main qualifications and are more advanced than AS-levels. They are typically studied over a two-year period and carry more weight in terms of university admissions and employment opportunities. A-levels are often required by universities as part of their entry requirements.
AS-levels, on the other hand, are standalone qualifications that are taken in the first year of the A-level program. They cover roughly half the content of a full A-level course and are intended to provide students with a broader range of subjects before specializing in a smaller number of subjects for A-levels. AS-levels can be taken as separate qualifications, but they can also be combined with A-levels to form a full A-level qualification.
Here are a few key points to note about A-levels and AS-levels:
- Subjects: A-levels and AS-levels are available in a wide range of subjects, including sciences, humanities, social sciences, arts, and languages. Students typically choose three or four subjects to study at A-level, while AS-level students may take four or five subjects.
- Examinations: Both A-levels and AS-levels involve written exams at the end of the course. The exams assess students’ knowledge, understanding, and application of the subject content. Some subjects may also have coursework components, which are assessed throughout the course.
- Grades: A-levels and AS-levels are graded on a scale from A* (highest) to E (lowest). A passing grade is usually considered a grade E or above, depending on the requirements of the institution or employer.
- UCAS Points: A-levels and AS-levels are assigned a certain number of UCAS points, which are used for university admissions in the UK. Different grades are assigned different point values, and universities may specify the number of UCAS points required for entry into a particular course.
- Progression: A-levels provide a pathway to higher education, as they are generally required for entry into universities in the UK. Students who successfully complete their A-levels can apply to universities and colleges to pursue undergraduate programs. AS-levels can also contribute to university applications, but they are not always required.
It’s worth noting that the structure and availability of A-levels and AS-levels may vary in different countries or education systems, but the general principles outlined above should provide a good understanding of these qualifications.