Selecting your A-Levels is arguably the most significant academic decision you’ll face before university. While GCSEs required a broad range of study, this stage is about specialising in a way that dictates your future career options. If you are currently sitting at your desk wondering what A-levels should I take, the answer usually lies in finding the balance between what you enjoy and what the UK’s top universities actually require.
The pressure to choose correctly is real, especially when you are being asked to map out a career path before you've even finished your teenage years. If you already have a target in mind, the decision is often made for you. Medicine, for instance, is non-negotiable when it comes to Chemistry and Biology, while Engineering requires a solid foundation in Maths and Physics.
For those who are still undecided, the most reliable strategy involves selecting at least two "facilitating" subjects, such as Mathematics, English Literature, or the Sciences. These subjects are highly valued by the Russell Group because they build the analytical and writing skills needed for degree-level study. Ultimately, achieving an A* in a subject that genuinely interests you will always carry more weight than a lower grade in a "hard" subject chosen simply for its perceived prestige.
Browse learndirect's A-Level courses to explore subjects that match your strengths, with flexible online study options.
Key Takeaways
- Facilitating subjects (Maths, Further Maths, English Literature, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, History, Languages) are preferred by Russell Group universities and keep the widest range of degree options open if you're uncertain about your future career.
- Specific career paths have non-negotiable subject requirements—medicine requires Chemistry and Biology, engineering requires Maths and Physics, and competitive courses have strict entry criteria that must be researched early.
- Universities care more about your grades than the perceived difficulty of your subjects—three A*s in subjects you excel at will open more doors than three Cs in "harder" subjects chosen for prestige.
- Mixing arts and sciences demonstrates breadth of thinking—however, avoid combinations that universities flag as overlapping or less rigorous (e.g., Business Studies with Economics, or multiple similar subjects).
- Your GCSE performance is the best predictor of A-Level success—choose subjects where you achieved strong GCSE grades and genuinely enjoyed the content, as A-Level study requires sustained motivation over two years.
Choosing your A-Level subjects ranks among the most significant academic decisions you'll make before turning 18. GCSEs required breadth across multiple subjects. A-Levels demand specialisation—and that specialisation shapes which university courses you can apply for, which careers become accessible, and how competitive your applications will be.
The pressure exists because you're being asked to make choices about your future when most people haven't settled on a career direction. Perhaps you're torn between subjects you love and subjects people tell you are "sensible", or receiving conflicting advice from teachers, parents, and career advisers.
Here's what matters most: there's no single perfect combination that works for everyone. What A-levels should I take depends on your specific career target (if you have one), what genuinely interests you, where your academic strengths lie, and which universities you're considering. This guide walks you through facilitating subjects, university requirements, career-specific combinations, and practical planning for undecided students.
How Do I Choose A-Levels Based on My GCSE Grades and Strengths?
Your GCSE results are the most reliable predictor of A-Level success. When thinking about what A-levels should I take, start by examining your GCSE performance honestly. Most schools require at least grade 6 in a subject at GCSE before allowing you to study it at A-Level. For demanding subjects like Further Maths, Physics, or Modern Languages, many institutions require grade 7 or above.
The leap from GCSE to A-Level involves more than harder content—it demands sustained engagement over two years with complex concepts that build progressively. If you struggled to maintain grade 6 in GCSE Maths, achieving the A or A* needed for competitive university courses becomes exponentially harder at A-Level.
Consider your genuine strengths, not just ambitions. Perhaps you achieved grade 7 in Chemistry but found every lesson difficult, whilst History came naturally. Choosing Chemistry because it seems "useful" often backfires when you're studying intensively for two years.
Look at patterns in your GCSE performance. Strong results in essay-based subjects suggest analytical and written communication skills suited to humanities. Consistent top marks in problem-solving subjects indicate STEM aptitude. Mixed results but strength in practical, coursework-based subjects might favour A-Levels with substantial coursework components.
Enjoying a subject genuinely matters—A-Level study requires reading beyond the syllabus, grappling with complex theories, and maintaining motivation through challenging periods. Picking subjects purely because they look good on paper, without genuine interest, typically produces grades that reflect that lack of engagement.
Look through learndirect's A-Level courses to find subjects that fit your skills, and you can study online whenever it's convenient for you.
Which A-Levels Are Considered the Most Respected by Universities and Employers?
The most "respected" subjects are generally those the Russell Group describes as facilitating subjects. These include Mathematics, English Literature, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, History, and Languages. Universities value them because they prove you can handle the analytical thinking and independent research required for a degree.
While subjects like Psychology, Economics, or Computer Science are perfectly valid, problems usually only arise if your entire portfolio lacks these facilitating subjects. Most universities prefer to see at least two.
From an employer's perspective, your degree result eventually carries more weight than your A-Levels. However, certain subjects still act as a useful shorthand for skills: Maths signals logic and numeracy, while English or History demonstrate strong communication and critical thinking.
Key Statistics About A-Level Choices and University Admissions
Understanding the current landscape of UK admissions can help clarify what A-levels should I take to remain competitive. These figures from UCAS and the Department for Education highlight the trends shaping university entry for 2026:
- 750,000+ candidates: The number of students sitting A-Levels annually remains high, making standout grades essential.
- The 40% Rule: Russell Group institutions handle nearly half of all university applications, often requiring specific "facilitating" subjects for entry.
- STEM Dominance: Around 73% of students who achieve A*AA grades have taken at least one STEM subject, with Mathematics remaining the most popular choice nationwide.
- Medicine Competition: With an average of 10 applications for every single place, meeting exact subject requirements in Chemistry and Biology is non-negotiable.
- Changing Minds: Roughly one in four students alters their degree choice between starting A-Levels and applying to university, which is why maintaining breadth is a smart move.
What Are Facilitating A-Level Subjects?
Facilitating subjects form the foundation when selecting A-levels for Russell Group universities or keeping your options open. The complete list comprises: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, English Literature, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, History, and Modern Foreign Languages or Classical Languages.
These earn "facilitating" status because they're required for wide-ranging degree programmes and university admissions tutors recognise their academic value. Taking at least two facilitating subjects significantly increases chances of meeting entry requirements for competitive courses.
Mathematics stands out as perhaps the most universally valuable—required or strongly preferred for sciences, engineering, economics, computer science, and many social sciences. English Literature provides analytical and written communication skills valued across humanities and social sciences.
Non-facilitating subjects like Psychology, Economics, and Computer Science are rigorous and valuable. The issue isn't quality—it's breadth of acceptance. Three non-facilitating subjects might close doors to certain competitive courses, whilst mixing facilitating with non-facilitating subjects keeps doors open.
Facilitating vs Non-Facilitating A-Levels
|
Facilitating Subjects |
Commonly Accepted Subjects |
Subjects to Research Carefully |
|---|---|---|
|
Mathematics |
Psychology |
Business Studies |
|
Further Mathematics |
Economics |
Media Studies |
|
English Literature |
Computer Science |
Film Studies |
| Physics |
Sociology |
Travel & Tourism |
| Biology | Politics |
Health & Social Care |
| Chemistry |
Religious Studies |
Performing Arts |
| Geography | Philosophy |
Applied subjects |
| History |
Art & Design |
|
|
Modern & Classical Languages |
Music |
Note: "Subjects to research carefully" doesn't mean they're bad choices—some competitive universities may not accept them for certain courses.
Which A-Levels Keep My Options Open If I'm Unsure of My Career?
Uncertainty about career at age 16 is entirely normal. About 25% of students change their intended degree between choosing A-levels and applying to university. If you're asking "what A-levels should I take" without a fixed career plan, the key is preserving flexibility whilst demonstrating commitment.
The most strategic approach involves at least two facilitating subjects from different domains when picking A-levels:
Maths + English Literature + one other covers analytical/numerical skills and written communication, keeping open STEM and humanities pathways. Maths + a Science + a Humanity works for medicine, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and most business degrees.
The principle is breadth without appearing unfocused. Universities want to see you've challenged yourself across different skill sets.
Avoid choosing solely based on keeping options open without considering genuine interests. Students who excel in humanities but force themselves through Maths and Sciences often end up with mediocre grades closing more doors than they open.
Explore learndirect's flexible online A-Level courses, designed to help you study subjects matching your interests.
Can I Take A-Levels Without Knowing My Career Yet?
Yes—the majority of 16-year-olds don't have fixed, detailed career plans. If you're asking "what A-levels should I take" without a clear direction, you're normal. A-Levels prepare you for higher education and demonstrate academic capability, not irrevocable career commitment. Most degree programmes accept varied A-Level combinations.
The sensible strategy balances strategic subject selection and personal interest. Choose subjects with strong GCSE foundations, include at least two facilitating subjects, and ensure one genuinely excites you.
Subject choice matters critically for courses with non-negotiable requirements: Medicine (Chemistry essential), Engineering (Maths and Physics essential), Architecture (often requiring Art portfolio), Modern Languages (requiring the relevant language).
Most careers don't follow linear paths. What A-levels you take influence university entry, but don't determine entire career trajectories.
What 3 A-Levels Go Well Together?
Universities evaluate how subjects work together to show academic breadth, depth, and complementary skills.
- Complementary subjects build on related skills—Maths and Physics complement each other; History and English Literature share analytical reading and essay-writing skills.
- Contrasting subjects show breadth—Maths, History, and Biology demonstrate capability across numerical problem-solving, essay-based argument, and scientific methodology.
- Three or four A-Levels? Three is standard and sufficient. Four makes sense mainly if taking Further Maths alongside Maths, targeting Oxbridge in highly competitive subjects, or your school structures timetabling this way. Universities prefer three A-Levels at A*AA over four at AAAB.
Study core facilitating subjects like A-Level Maths, English Literature, or Sciences through learndirect's flexible courses.
Strong A-Level Combinations by Interest Area
STEM-Focused Combinations:
- Maths, Physics, Chemistry (engineering, physical sciences)
- Maths, Biology, Chemistry (medicine, life sciences)
- Maths, Computer Science, Physics (technology, computing)
- Maths, Economics, Physics (finance, data science)
Humanities-Focused Combinations:
- English Literature, History, Politics (law, journalism, civil service)
- History, Economics, Maths (PPE, economic history)
- English Literature, History, Language (international relations)
- Geography, History, English Literature (broad humanities)
Balanced Combinations (Keeping Options Open):
- Maths, English Literature, Biology
- Maths, History, Chemistry
- Geography, Maths, English Literature
- Biology, Psychology, English Literature
Creative Combinations:
- Art, English Literature, History (art history, creative industries)
- Music, Maths, Physics (music technology, sound engineering)
- Drama, English Literature, Psychology (theatre, media)
Which A-Levels Should I Avoid Choosing Together If I Want to Keep My Options Open?
Certain combinations raise concerns because they suggest overlap, insufficient breadth, or gaps in essential skills.
Overlapping content combinations are most common—Business Studies and Economics cover significant shared material. Some Russell Group universities count this as essentially one subject. English Language and English Literature, or Maths and Statistics face similar scrutiny.
Multiple "soft" or applied subjects without facilitating subjects can limit Russell Group options. Media Studies, Film Studies, and Sociology together signals specialised interest but potentially lacks the rigour these universities seek.
Check if your combination works using the Informed Choices guide published by the Russell Group, specific university course pages, and UCAS's subject search tool.
A-Level Combinations to Approach with Caution
Overlapping Combinations (Universities May Count as One Subject):
- Business Studies + Economics (significant content overlap)
- Maths + Statistics (Statistics often not accepted alongside Maths)
- English Language + English Literature (may be seen as one subject)
- History + Ancient History (content overlap concerns)
Combinations That May Limit Competitive University Options:
- Three or more "applied" or vocational A-Levels for academic degrees
- Multiple subjects from the "research carefully" category without a facilitating subject
- Combinations with no essay-writing component for humanities degrees
- Combinations with no mathematical/scientific component for STEM degrees
Important Note: These combinations aren't "wrong"—they may simply close doors to the most competitive courses.
What A-Levels Are Best for Getting into Competitive Medicine or Dentistry Degrees?
Medicine and dentistry represent some of the UK's most competitive programmes, with typically 10 applications per place and strict subject requirements.
- Chemistry is non-negotiable for almost every UK medical school—listed as essential rather than preferred. Medical degrees involve substantial biochemistry, pharmacology, and physiology assuming A-Level Chemistry knowledge.
- Biology is strongly preferred by the vast majority of medical schools, providing foundational understanding of anatomy, physiology, genetics, and cellular processes.
- Your third subject offers flexibility. Many successful applicants take Maths for logical thinking demonstration. Others choose contrasting subjects like English Literature, History, or Languages for breadth and communication skills.
- Grades matter enormously—typical offers sit at AAA to AAA, with many schools requiring A in Chemistry or Biology. Picking subjects where you can achieve these grades matters more than subjects appearing impressive.
Prepare for medical applications with A-Level Biology and Chemistry.
Which A-Levels Do I Need for Medicine, Law, or Engineering?
Different careers carry vastly different subject requirements.
- Medicine: Chemistry essential, Biology strongly preferred. Third subject can be Maths, English Literature, History, or Languages. You'll also need exceptional grades (A*AA to AAA), strong UCAT/BMAT scores, substantial work experience, and interview skills.
- Law: No specific subjects required. Essay-based subjects that show analytical thinking and written communication are valued—History, English Literature, Politics, Philosophy, Classical subjects. A-Level Law isn't required and won't provide degree-level head start. Top schools offer A*AA to AAA, many requiring LNAT.
- Engineering: Mathematics absolutely essential for virtually all engineering degrees. Physics required or strongly preferred. Further Maths valuable for competitive courses at Russell Group universities. Typical offers range from AAA to AA*A.
A-Level Requirements by Competitive Career Path
|
Career/Degree |
Essential Subjects |
Strongly Recommended |
Typical Offer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicine | Chemistry | Biology |
A*AA - AAA |
|
Dentistry |
Chemistry |
Biology |
AAA |
|
Veterinary Science |
Chemistry, Biology |
Maths, Physics |
AAA |
|
Engineering |
Maths, Physics |
Further Maths |
A*AA - AAA |
|
Law |
None required |
Essay subjects |
A*AA - AAA |
| Economics | Maths |
Economics, Further Maths |
A*AA - AAA |
|
Computer Science |
Maths |
Further Maths, Physics |
A*AA - ABB |
| Psychology |
None required |
Maths, Biology |
AAA - ABB |
| Nursing |
None required |
Biology, Chemistry |
BBB - BBC |
What A-Levels Should I Choose If I Am Interested in Business, Finance, and Economics Careers?
If you're wondering what A-levels should I take for business or finance, Mathematics is crucial for virtually all serious finance and economics careers. Investment banking, financial analysis, actuarial work, and economics degrees all require strong mathematical capability.
Economics A-Level provides valuable foundational knowledge but isn't essential. University economics involves substantial mathematics and statistical analysis—far more quantitative than A-Level Economics suggests.
Business Studies gives practical business understanding, but some Russell Group universities list it as "non-preferred" for competitive courses, preferring facilitating subjects with broader rigour.
Sensible approach: combine Maths with Economics or contrasting facilitating subject. Maths, Economics, History shows quantitative skills alongside analytical writing. Maths, Further Maths, Economics suits highly quantitative courses.
Develop business skills with A-Level Business Studies or strengthen quantitative capabilities with Maths.
What A-Levels Work Best for a Future Career in Psychology or Social Sciences?
When considering what A-levels should I take for psychology, here's what surprises most students: Psychology A-Level isn't required for psychology degrees—most universities explicitly state it provides no advantage. University psychology programmes are far more scientifically rigorous than A-Level Psychology, involving neuroscience, research methods, and statistics.
Mathematics and Biology are increasingly valued because psychology is fundamentally a science. Students with strong Maths backgrounds often find degree-level psychology easier, particularly statistics and research methodology.
For broader social sciences, strong essay skills matter enormously. History, English Literature, Politics, or Sociology show required capabilities. Some courses value mixed profiles—Psychology, History, Maths demonstrates analytical breadth.
Explore psychology with A-Level Psychology or build analytical skills with Sociology.
What A-Level Combinations Do Top Universities Prefer for Engineering Degrees?
Mathematics and Physics are absolutely essential for virtually every engineering course. You cannot study engineering without both.
Further Mathematics becomes highly valuable for most competitive programmes. Imperial, Cambridge, Oxford, and other top schools either require or strongly prefer Further Maths because engineering degrees involve complex mathematical techniques Further Maths introduces.
Chemistry matters for specific disciplines—particularly chemical engineering and materials engineering. For mechanical, civil, electrical, or aerospace engineering, Chemistry is generally optional.
Your third or fourth subject can broaden your profile. Some take Computer Science for programming skills, others Economics for business awareness, many a Language or History for communication skills—engineering employers increasingly value these alongside technical capability.
Grade requirements are demanding—top schools typically offer AAA to AA*A.
Build engineering foundations with A-Level Physics and Maths.
What A-Levels Should I Take If I Want to Study Law at a Top University?
If you're asking what A-levels should I take for law, the answer surprises many students: no specific A-Level subjects are required for law degrees at any UK university, including Oxbridge.
Essay-based subjects are strongly preferred—law involves vast reading, analytical thinking, and sophisticated written argument. History, English Literature, Philosophy, Classics, Languages all work well for law schools.
A-Level Law receives neutral or slightly negative views from prestigious law schools. Cambridge notes Law A-Level provides no advantage. Why? A-Level Law covers different content from degree-level law using different methodologies.
Languages provide significant advantage for international law, EU law, and global firm careers. French, Spanish, or German combined with strong humanities subjects make particularly attractive combinations.
Top law schools look for exceptional grades (typically A*AA), LNAT performance, interview performance that shows legal reasoning, and super-curricular activities like wider reading and mooting.
The Truth About A-Level Law
Common Misconception: "I need A-Level Law to study Law at university"
Reality:
- Most Russell Group universities do NOT require A-Level Law
- Cambridge, LSE explicitly state Law A-Level provides no advantage
- Essay-based subjects like History, English Literature, Languages preferred
- Law A-Level useful for gauging interest, but won't give head start
What Top Law Schools Value:
- Strong grades (A*AA typical)
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Excellent written communication
- Wider reading and genuine legal interest
- Strong LNAT performance
What A-Levels Should I Take If I Want a Career in Teaching or Education?
The question "what A-levels should I take for teaching" has different answers depending on which level you want to teach. For secondary teaching, you'll specialise in subjects you'll teach throughout your career. Your A-Levels should include the subject you want to teach.
Which subjects have teacher shortages? STEM subjects—particularly Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Computer Science—face chronic shortages. These subjects position you favourably for training bursaries, employment prospects, and career progression.
For primary teaching, pathways are less subject-specific. Primary teachers deliver entire curriculum across subjects, so universities don't require specific A-Levels. However, strong literacy and numeracy skills matter enormously.
University education degrees have flexible requirements—typically BBB to ABB. They value education interest shown through work experience (crucial) over specific combinations.
Build subject expertise with A-Level History, English Literature, or your chosen specialist subject.
What Are the Four Hardest A-Levels?
- Further Mathematics tops difficulty rankings, extending beyond A-Level Maths into university-level topics including complex numbers, matrices, differential equations.
- Physics challenges students combining advanced mathematics with abstract concepts about forces, fields, quantum mechanics.
- Chemistry involves memorising vast content whilst understanding underlying principles about bonding, thermodynamics, chemical systems.
- Modern Foreign Languages challenge through multiple skill dimensions simultaneously—reading complex literature, writing sophisticated essays, speaking fluently, understanding native speakers.
- Does taking "hard" A-Levels impress universities? Only with strong grades. Universities prefer A*AA in subjects you excel at over BBB in subjects chosen for perceived prestige.
What's the Easiest A-Level to Get an A In?
Subjects with high A*/A percentages include Film Studies (around 35%), Sociology (35-38%), Media Studies (33-36%), Drama (30-33%)—genuinely higher proportions than English Literature (25%) or History (28%).
Why higher grade percentages? Coursework features heavily, allowing perfected submissions rather than single exam performances. Self-selection plays roles—students choosing these typically have genuine interest and aptitude.
Should you choose based on grade distributions? This backfires because university perceptions matter. Some Russell Group universities list Film Studies and Media Studies as "non-preferred" for competitive courses.
Achieve strong grades in respected subjects with learndirect's courses.
What Is the Best A-Level to Take?
If identifying a single "best" A-Level providing maximum flexibility, Mathematics stands out as most versatile—required or strongly preferred for virtually all sciences, engineering, economics, computer science, many social sciences, architecture, business.
English Literature provides different universal value—sophisticated communication skills, analytical thinking, cultural literacy valued across careers.
The most important principle: the best A-Level is one you'll succeed in. Universities and employers care far more about grades than the theoretically "optimal" subject.
What A-Levels Do Universities Not Like?
Universities don't universally "dislike" subjects—preferences are context-specific.
- General Studies and Critical Thinking top lists of subjects most frequently excluded from offers. Many Russell Group universities don't count these towards entry requirements.
- Applied subjects and vocational qualifications receive mixed treatment. Business Studies, Applied Science, Health & Social Care face restrictions at most competitive universities.
- Overlapping subjects create problems when taken together—Business Studies + Economics, English Language + English Literature, Maths + Statistics concern universities as lacking breadth.
Check if subjects are acceptable using individual course pages, the Informed Choices guide, UCAS course search, and direct admissions office contact.
Making Your Final A-Level Decision
Decision Framework:
Do I have a specific career/degree in mind?
- YES: Research exact requirements
- NO: Choose at least two facilitating subjects
What subjects did I achieve best GCSE grades in?
- Prioritise grade 7+ subjects
What subjects genuinely interest me?
- You'll study intensively for two years
Do choices complement each other?
- Avoid excessive overlap; aim for breadth
Have I checked university requirements?
- Use UCAS, university websites, Informed Choices guide
Red Flags:
- Choosing subjects only because friends take them
- Selecting based solely on liking a teacher
- Picking subjects parents want rather than what suits you
- Avoiding subjects you're good at because they seem "boring"
- Choosing only "easy" subjects without considering requirements
Can I Mix Arts and Science A-Levels?
You can absolutely mix arts and sciences—doing so often strengthens applications by demonstrating intellectual breadth. Universities increasingly value interdisciplinary thinking.
Specific degrees actively encourage mixing. Geography bridges physical and human geography. Psychology requires scientific methodology but benefits from humanities skills.
Strong mixed combinations:
- Maths, Biology, History (versatile for sciences or social sciences)
- English Literature, Chemistry, History (humanities with scientific grounding)
- Physics, Maths, Geography (sciences with spatial/environmental awareness)
Avoid appearing unfocused—ensure combinations either support clear goals or show strategic breadth.
Discover learndirect's flexible learning for diverse A-level options.
Will My Subject Choices Limit My University Options?
Yes—certain combinations limit options at specific universities for specific courses. However, "limiting" doesn't mean "destroying your future".
- Absolute limitations occur when lacking essential subjects. Without Maths and Physics, you cannot study most engineering. Without Chemistry, medicine is largely inaccessible.
- Soft limitations occur when combinations are acceptable but less preferred. Business Studies, Media Studies, Sociology won't prevent university—many accept these—but Russell Group applications become harder.
- Recovery options exist—gap years allow resitting, access courses provide alternative routes, graduate-entry exists for medicine and law. However, these require extra time and cost.
Research early and broadly. Use UCAS's course search, explore multiple universities' requirements, ask school careers advisers about typical combinations for careers you're considering.
How Many A-Levels Should I Take?
Three A-Levels is standard, expected, and sufficient for virtually all UK university courses, including most competitive Oxbridge programmes.
University entry requirements calibrate around three A-Levels. When Oxford states "AAA" or Cambridge "AA*A", they mean three A-Levels achieving those grades. Four or five at lower grades doesn't strengthen applications.
Consider four A-Levels when: taking Further Maths alongside Maths for STEM courses, applying to Oxbridge in highly competitive subjects (though never required), or maintaining strong Year 12 performance across four subjects.
AS-Levels have diminished significance since 2015 reforms. Most students take three A-Levels studied linearly over two years.
Quality over quantity—universities value exceptional performance in three subjects far more than adequate performance across four or five.
Access learndirect's virtual classes for supported online study achieving strong grades.
Making the Right Choice for Your Future
Choosing A-Level subjects is significant—but not irreversible, and doesn't determine entire life paths. Most successful professionals didn't follow straight lines through education into careers.
The question "what A-levels should I take" has different answers for different people. What matters most: informed decisions that balance interests, strengths, and reasonable future goals. If you have clear career direction requiring specific subjects, research thoroughly and commit. If uncertain—entirely normal at 16—choose subjects keeping options open whilst pursuing genuine interests.
Key principles:
- Grades matter more than subject prestige. Three A*s in subjects you excel at open more doors than three Bs in "impressive" subjects.
- Interest sustains performance. Two years studying subjects you dislike produces worse outcomes. Genuine curiosity carries you through difficult periods.
- Requirements are non-negotiable. Want medicine? Need Chemistry. Want engineering? Need Maths and Physics. Don't compromise hoping enthusiasm compensates.
- Flexibility has value. For undecided students, facilitating subjects preserve options and show rigour. Two facilitating subjects alongside one personal interest creates strong foundations.
Your A-level choices represent the beginning of specialisation, not the end of career possibilities. Make thoughtful decisions, achieve best grades in subjects engaging you, remain open to discovering new interests.
Explore learndirect's full A-Level range and discover how flexible online learning supports your educational journey. Targeting competitive university courses or exploring career options, learndirect provides high-quality resources for independent learners. Contact the team for personalised guidance on the right combination for your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best A-Level to take?
If asking "what A-levels should I take" for maximum versatility, Mathematics is widely considered the most valuable single subject, valued across virtually all career paths and university courses.
What 3 A-Levels go well together?
Maths, Biology, and Chemistry form a strong combination for science careers, while History, English Literature, and Politics work well for humanities—but the best combination depends on your specific career goals.
What are the four hardest A-Levels?
Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Modern Languages are commonly cited as the most challenging due to content difficulty and grade distributions.
What are the most respected A-Levels?
The Russell Group's facilitating subjects—Maths, Further Maths, English Literature, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, History, and Languages—are considered most academically rigorous.
What's the easiest A-Level to get an A in?
Film Studies, Media Studies, and Sociology historically have higher percentages of top grades, but choosing subjects purely for ease can limit university options.
What A-Levels do universities not like?
Some competitive universities express preferences against General Studies, Critical Thinking, and certain applied subjects for specific courses—always check individual university requirements.
Which A-Levels do I need for medicine?
Chemistry is essential for almost all UK medical schools, with Biology strongly preferred and a third academic subject of your choice.
Can I take A-Levels without knowing my career yet?
Yes, choosing two facilitating subjects alongside a subject you enjoy will keep most university and career paths open.
What are facilitating A-Level subjects?
Facilitating subjects are Maths, Further Maths, English Literature, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, History, and Modern/Classical Languages—preferred by Russell Group universities.
Which A-Levels keep my options open?
Mathematics combined with either a science and a humanity, or English Literature with a science and a social science, provides maximum flexibility.
How do I choose A-Levels based on my strengths?
Review your GCSE grades and select subjects where you achieved grade 7 or above and genuinely enjoyed the content.
Can I mix arts and science subjects?
Yes, mixing arts and sciences is perfectly acceptable and can demonstrate intellectual breadth to universities.
Will my subject choices limit my university options?
Some choices may limit options for the most competitive courses, so research specific university requirements before finalising your selection.
How many A-Levels should I take?
Three A-Levels is standard and sufficient for virtually all university courses; four is only advisable for exceptional students or specific requirements.
What A-Levels should I take for law?
No specific subjects are required, but essay-based subjects like History, English Literature, and Languages are preferred by top law schools.
What A-Levels should I take for engineering?
Mathematics and Physics are essential for most engineering degrees, with Further Maths highly advantageous for competitive courses.
