How to choose your A-Level subjects: Advice for GCSE Students

Choosing your A-Level, or A-Level equivalent, subjects is a decision that can shape your or your child’s future. The subjects you pick now can influence what you study at university, the career options available to you, and even your enjoyment of your final years in school. It's important to make informed decisions that align with your interests, strengths, and goals.

Here’s an up-to-date EduBridge Tutoring Guide on how to choose the right A-Level subjects for you:

1. Think about your future career or university choices

Certain careers and university courses require specific A-Level subjects. For example, if you’re interested in becoming a doctor, A-Levels in Chemistry and Biology are usually essential. If you’re leaning toward engineering, Maths and Physics are often required. Even subjects like English Literature, History, or Geography can be crucial for certain humanities degrees.

Practical Tip: Research the university courses you’re interested in and find out if they have specific A-Level requirements. Websites like UCAS, university prospectuses, and career guidance platforms can help you understand what’s expected.

2. Play to your strengths

While it’s important to consider your future career, you should also focus on the subjects you’re good at and enjoy. A-Levels are much more challenging than GCSEs, so choosing subjects that you have a natural talent for can make the process less stressful and more rewarding.

Practical Tip: Reflect on your GCSE performance and ask yourself which subjects you’ve consistently performed well in. Speak to your teachers for advice on how your skills might translate into A-Level success.

3. Balance your interests

Choosing A-Levels isn’t just about what will look good on a university application. You’ll be studying these subjects for two years, so it’s crucial that you choose subjects that genuinely interest you. If you’re passionate about a subject, you’ll be more motivated to put in the hard work!

Practical Tip: Ask yourself which subjects keep you engaged and curious. Are there topics you’d love to explore more deeply? Don’t be afraid to choose one or two subjects that may not directly link to your future plans but that you really enjoy.

4. Consider facilitating subjects

Facilitating subjects are those that are often highly regarded by universities and keep more options open, including Maths, English, the sciences, and humanities like History and Geography. If you aren’t set on a specific path, then having at least one or two facilitating subjects in your A-Level choices can give you more flexibility when applying to university.

5. Understand the workload and difficulty

A-Levels are a big step up from GCSEs. Some subjects are known for being particularly challenging or time-consuming, such as Maths, Chemistry, and Further Maths. However, this doesn’t mean you should avoid them—it just means you need to be prepared for the commitment required.

Practical Tip: Talk to current A-Level students and teachers to get a realistic understanding of what’s involved in each subject. It’s important to know what you’re signing up for!

6. Don’t choose subjects based on your friends

It’s tempting to choose A-Level subjects based on what your friends are doing. However, this isn’t the best strategy. Your strengths, interests, and goals are unique to you, and you should make your decision accordingly.

Practical Tip: While having friends in the same class can be motivating, remember that you’ll be the one sitting the exams. Focus on your own future and what’s best for you academically.

7. Think about combining A-Levels and vocational qualifications

If you’re more practically inclined or have specific career goals in mind, consider combining A-Levels with vocational qualifications such as BTECs or T Levels. These can offer a more hands-on approach and may suit your learning style better.

Practical Tip: Research T Levels or BTECs to see if they align with your interests. Some schools and colleges allow you to take a mix of A-Levels and vocational qualifications, giving you a broader skill set.

8. Research your school or college’s Options

Different schools and colleges offer different courses. Some subjects might be available at one institution and not another. You may also find that some schools specialise in particular subject areas or have better resources for certain courses.

Practical Tip: Attend open days and ask about the range of A-Level subjects on offer. Speak to subject teachers and get a feel for what each course will involve.

9. Seek Advice

Don’t make your decisions in isolation. Speak to teachers, careers advisors, family members, and older students who’ve been through the process - they can offer insights you might not have considered and help you make the best choice.

Practical Tip: Make an appointment with a careers advisor at your school to discuss your options in depth. It’s also worth talking to teachers about how your GCSE strengths might translate into A-Level success - remember, they’re there to help you!

Choosing your A-Levels is a big decision, but with the right preparation and thought, you can pick subjects that you’ll enjoy, excel in, and that will keep your future options open. At the end of the day, it’s about finding the right balance between what you love, what you’re good at, and what will help you reach your future goals.

Speak to a member of the EduBridge Team for more advice or to find out more about how we can support you in preparing for your A-Levels!