Guide to A-Level Subject Choices

The first thing to do is ask yourself a really obvious but very important question: “What do I enjoy studying?”

If you enjoy a subject, then you are likely to be more motivated to succeed. If you are successful, then you are more likely to enjoy the subject. Remember that A-levels and BTECs are fairly intensive and you really need to be hooked on the subject for the next two years. A full list of the subjects we have available at LVS Ascot, our independent school in Berkshire, are detailed in our Sixth Form Choices pages.

This milestone in your education also presents the opportunity to experience a range of new subjects that were not available to you at GCSE level, such as A-level Criminology or BTEC Creative Digital Media Production. You will need to take time to investigate these new subjects by talking to teachers and students at open days.

Attending one of our open days will give you the chance to explore all options.

Many university courses require qualifications in particular subjects and they will need you to achieve specific grades before they accept you. If you have a clear idea about your career-path, then check the degree course requirements. Some of these requirements could surprise you. For example, you may not need an A-level in Economics to study Economics, but you will probably need an A-level in Mathematics.

You can look up university course requirements on the UCAS website. The UniGuide also provides information on the subjects needed to study particular degree courses.

If you’re still unsure about what you want to study at university, or choose as a career, then it is a good idea to keep your options open by selecting “facilitating” A-levels. These are subjects that generally keep more university courses open to you when you make your UCAS application and include Biology, Chemistry, English Literature, Geography, History, Mathematics, Languages and Physics.

Choosing one or two facilitating subjects will give you a wider choice of degrees. Also, you may need to avoid having a narrow combination of similar subjects such as Business Studies and Economics or History and Government & Politics as this is sometimes viewed negatively by certain universities.

It’s not all about A-levels in the Sixth Form – don’t forget the vocational subjects. BTEC qualifications are subjects that tend to have a greater emphasis on practical elements. The nature of these courses helps to develop independent study, self-organisation and time management. They are equivalent to A-levels (depending on the number of units you complete) and they are recognised by most universities, including those in the Russell Group.

There is a lot of misinformation about which A-levels particular universities will and won’t accept. Check the university websites and make contact with Admissions Officers if you are unsure – they are usually very helpful.
Your UCAS application will allow you to write a personal statement which gives you the opportunity to present yourself as an individual and demonstrate all the co-curricular activities you have undertaken during your time in the Sixth Form.

Many universities will consider you if you have an interesting yet truthful personal statement regardless of the A-level combinations you select. Projects like the Duke of Edinburgh scheme always help LVS Ascot students stand out, so make the most of your Sixth Form opportunities.

You may consider studying an EPQ (extended project qualification) alongside three A-levels. An EPQ is worth 50% of an A-level and is recognised as providing university-style study with the opportunity to expand your knowledge in a particular interest area. EPQs tend to be looked on favourably as they provide evidence of the independent study required at university.