A Level Subjects – What They Are and How to Pick the Right Ones
If you’re stepping into sixth form or thinking about university, the first question on your mind is probably: “Which A level subjects should I take?” It’s a big decision because the subjects you choose shape your study habits, your university applications, and even your career path.
In the UK, an A level is a two‑year qualification taken after GCSEs. You can study anywhere from three to four subjects, and each subject is graded from A* to E. The grades you get matter to universities, employers, and scholarship bodies, so it helps to understand what each subject offers before you sign up.
What Counts as an A‑Level Subject?
Not every class offered in sixth form is an A level. An official A level must be approved by an exam board such as AQA, OCR, or Edexcel, and it follows a set syllabus. Common subjects include Maths, English Literature, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Geography, Economics, and languages like French or Spanish. You’ll also find newer options like Computer Science, Psychology, and Sociology that count just the same.
When you look at school prospectuses, you’ll see a list of subjects with a note that they are “A level” next to the title. Those are the ones that count toward your final A level results. If you’re unsure, ask your teachers or check the exam board’s website – they list every subject that qualifies.
How to Pick the Right Mix for You
Choosing the right combination is part art, part strategy. Start by asking yourself three things: What are your strengths? What do you enjoy? What do universities expect for the courses you like?
Strengths and interests should guide the bulk of your choices. If you love solving problems, Maths and Physics might feel natural. If you enjoy reading and discussing ideas, English Literature or History could be a good fit. Mixing a concrete subject (like Chemistry) with a creative one (like Art) can keep your workload balanced.
Next, glance at university entry requirements. Competitive courses such as Medicine or Engineering often ask for specific subjects – usually Maths and a science. Business or Law may look for Maths or a humanities subject. Knowing these expectations early helps you avoid a situation where you need to retake an A level later.
Don’t forget about workload. Some subjects, like Chemistry, are famously demanding because of practical work and heavy theory. Others, such as Sociology or Psychology, tend to have more essay‑based assessments and may feel lighter. If you want a subject that’s perceived as “easier,” look for ones that match your natural skills rather than just low difficulty.
Finally, think about the future. A subject that seems irrelevant now might become useful later. For example, Computer Science offers coding skills that many employers value, even if you plan to study something else at university.
In short, pick subjects that play to your strengths, spark your interest, and line up with where you want to go next. Talk to teachers, browse university pages, and maybe even sit in on a trial lesson before you decide.
Ready to choose? Grab a notebook, list your top three interests, check the A level subjects your school offers, and match them to university requirements. The right mix will give you confidence for exams, a solid grade profile, and a clearer path to the career you want.
