What are A-levels?
Students study for advanced level examinations, know as A-levels, for two years, usually between the ages of 16 to 19. Preparation for A-levels is often done at a specialised school, such as EF International Academy, known as a sixth form college. The first year of sixth form college is known as the lower sixth while the second year is called the upper sixth. The students take national exams at the end of the first year and again at the end of the second year. Performing well on these A-level examinations is critical because universities use A-level grades to decide which students to admit.

Why study A-levels?
Universities in the UK are regarded as some of the best in the world, and a standard way to get accepted to a UK university is to take A-level examinations. Students sit for A-level examinations in order to progress to the top-ranked universities in the UK. High A-level grades are also essential for competitive undergraduate studies such as medicine, law and engineering. Moreover, A-levels are widely recognised by universities around the world as a high achievement, so doing well on A-levels opens doors to limitless possibilities.

 

A-levels at EF International Academy
Performing well on A-levels requires a high level of English competence and knowledge of the British learning culture. A significant amount of independent study is required. Many international students have less experience with this British method of learning. EF International Academy’s teachers specialise in helping students perform well on A-levels. To assure students stay on track, they are regularly tested. Our tutors monitor students’ monthly test results, performance, homework and approach to studying.

Choosing A-levels
Students choose A-level subjects based on their academic skills and their future course of study at university. Typically, students take four academic subjects during their first year. Most take three subjects during their second year, though some students take more. For instance, a student might study biology, psychology, economics and sociology during the first year of A-levels and psychology, economics and sociology during the second year. Prospective medical students would choose A-level subjects such as biology, chemistry and statistics, whereas prospective lawyers might study government and politics, philosophy and law. Choosing an appropriate combination of A-levels gives students the best chance of being admitted to top universities.

A-level grades
Typically, a student wishing to attend university prepares for A-level examinations in three or four different subjects. They are advised to choose subjects that will help their future career and university applications. Examinations are independently graded ranging from A (the highest) to E.

Examples of A-level subjects at EF International Academy

Accountancy	Biology
Business studies	Chemistry
Computer studies	Economics
Further mathematics	Geography
Physics	Law
Information technology	Mathematics
Media studies	Philosophy
Psychology	Sociology
Statistics	Film studies

Download a complete list of the subjects offered as part of our A-Level Programme >>

A-Level preparation courses in modern languages such as German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Italian, Russian and Arabic can also be offered at our schools.

34% of students achieved grades AAA or higher. 45% of all A-level grades are A or higher (5 times national average).