Navigating A-Levels Together

A-Levels are graded from A* to E, with A* being the highest.

The best grade for A-Levels is an A*, as it reflects the highest level of achievement.

However, the grade required can depend on the university course or career path your child is aiming for. Most universities specify their entry requirements in terms of A-Level grades.

There are no compulsory subjects for A-Levels. Students have the freedom to choose subjects based on their interests and future career or educational aspirations. However, certain university courses may require specific A-Level subjects, so it's important to choose wisely.

The perception of what constitutes an "easy" A-Level subject can vary greatly between students, as it depends on individual strengths and interests. Generally, subjects like Sociology, Psychology and History are considered less challenging by some students, but it's crucial to choose subjects that align with your child's abilities and future goals.

Students can get started with GCSEs at any age. There are no age requirements to study GCSEs with CloudLearn. At CloudLearn we have students aged 9-82, remember, learning is a lifelong endervour. Most UK students begin studying A-Levels at the age of 16, after completing their GCSEs. This typically involves two years of study, with students taking their final exams at the age of 18.

However, CloudLearn students can achieve their qualifications quicker by fast-tracking with intensive study. Each A-Level has a recommended study duration of 360 hours.

Most universities require students to have completed three A-Levels for entry into their undergraduate programmes. It’s important to check the specific entry requirements for the course and university your child is interested in, as requirements can vary. Generally, achieving high grades in three A-Level subjects will be sufficient for most university applications.

UCAS points, also known as UCAS Tariff points, are a way of measuring and comparing the relative value of different qualifications and grades in the UK education system. They are used by universities to set entry requirements and make offers to prospective students. Each qualification and grade is assigned a certain number of UCAS points.

The number of UCAS points required for university entry varies depending on the course and institution. Generally, more competitive courses and universities will require a higher number of UCAS points. Here is a general guide to UCAS points for A-Level grades:

• A* = 56 points
• A = 48 points
• B = 40 points
• C = 32 points
• D = 24 points
• E = 16 points

For example, if a university course requires 120 UCAS points, a student could meet this requirement with three A-Levels at grades BBB (each B grade worth 40 points).

It’s important to check the specific entry requirements for the course and university your child is interested in, as these requirements can vary widely. Many universities provide detailed information on their websites about the required UCAS points and acceptable qualifications for their courses.