A Levels and AS Levels

GCE A levels are two year study courses normally taken by students in schools and colleges of further education after they have completed their General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) examinations. In most cases students should have passed a GCSE in the subject they wish to take at A level, but some subjects (such as Law) are not offered at GCSE level. A levels are seen as one of the main routes into higher education and employment.

A levels offer greater flexibility because of the introduction of AS and A2. Students can decide how many A levels they wish to study, depending on their career choices, ability, provision at their school or college and the advice given to them by their teachers and the Careers Service. A levels demand more individual, in-depth study than GCSEs and place greater emphasis on traditional study skills.