Years 12-13 (Age 16-18)
A-Levels
The qualification universities care about most
A-Levels are the gold-standard pre-university qualification in the UK. Most students take 3 subjects over two years, with grades A* to E. They are the single biggest factor in your UCAS application.
What they want
- 3 A-Levels (4 only if you can handle it — quality > quantity)
- Subjects relevant to your degree (e.g. Maths + Further Maths for Engineering)
- Predicted grades meeting or exceeding university offers (often A*AA-AAA for top unis)
- An EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) is a strong supercurricular bonus
Choosing your A-Levels
Pick 3 subjects. Russell Group universities publish 'facilitating subjects' (Maths, English, Sciences, History, Geography, Languages) — at least 2 of these is a safe bet. Check the entry requirements of degrees you're considering: Medicine wants Chemistry + Biology, Engineering wants Maths + Physics.
AS vs A-Level
Most schools no longer offer AS-Levels as separate qualifications. Almost all are linear: you sit exams only at the end of Year 13.
The EPQ
The Extended Project Qualification is a 5,000-word research project (or artefact + report). Worth half an A-Level, universities love it — it shows independent research skills. Pick a topic linked to your intended degree.
Typical offers
Oxbridge: A*AA - A*A*A. Russell Group: AAA - AAB. Other strong universities: ABB - BBB. Medicine, Vet Med, and Computer Science at top unis often demand A*A*A.