General Article Choosing A-level subjects: five points to consider

Topic Selected: Student Choices Book Volume: 403

The subjects you take at A-level can have a major impact on your future direction. So before embarking on two years’ hard work it’s well worth doing your research. Here’s our five-point guide to making your choices.

1. Ability and enjoyment

Thinking about the subjects you are good at, like and enjoy is a useful starting point.

If you enjoy your studies, you are likely to be more motivated. Similarly, having a natural ability in your chosen subjects can increase your chances of success. For this reason you often need a certain grade at GCSE to study a subject at A-level, so you’ll need to check what subjects are open to you.

But beware, there can be significant differences from studying subjects at GCSE to A-level. It doesn’t always follow that choosing a subject you enjoyed before will be a safe bet. Even if you feel you’re on familiar ground, it pays to do your research.

2. New subjects

Your school or college may offer A-levels in subjects that you’ve not studied before.

If any new...

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