Everything You Need To Know About The A-Levels
Advanced Levels (usually referred to as just A Levels) are qualifications in particular subjects that are usually the final academic courses taken before a student attends university.
You can study three or more A-levels over the final two years before starting university. A-Levels are assessed using a set of examinations, and although they’re a UK-based qualification, they are widely accepted worldwide.
There are a range of subjects you can take while pursuing an A-Level qualification. The most popular courses include:
For a complete list of A-Level courses refer to the CIE’s official website.
You can also take your A-Levels entirely online. Crimson Global Academy (CGA) is a global online school with the mission to provide premium education without the constraints of physical schooling.
CGA offers very close support for students in selecting A Level subjects: this is vital because future courses at university and future careers will often have specific requirements for A Level subjects. We can provide expert advice in this important area.
There are two exam boards for A-Levels:
**Edexcel and Cambridge.
Pearson Edexcel A Levels are widely recognized in the UK and follow a module-based system. Students have the flexibility to retake modules to improve their subject grades, and exams are typically held in May and November.
On the other hand, Cambridge A Levels offers a diverse range of subjects and flexible combinations. These qualifications cater to the needs of international learners and also provide opportunities for non-native English speakers to demonstrate their English proficiency, which is valued by many British universities.
What is Crimson Global Academy?
A-Levels are broken down into two parts: the AS Level and A2 Level:
| A Level Grade | Percentage |
|---|---|
| A* | 90% + |
| A | 80-89% |
| B | 70-79% |
| C | 60-69% |
| D | 50-59% |
| E | 40-49% |
| U (Ungraded) | 0-40% |
While the percentage grade boundaries may look intimidating, one of the great things about International AS and A Levels is that you don’t have to get 90% or 70% of the questions correct to end up getting a 90% or 70% on your report card.
International AS and A Levels employ scaling, which converts raw marks to Percentage Uniform Marks. The exams are calibrated against other students’ performance, resulting in most raw marks being scaled up. Scaling ensures a fair representation of performance and determines the A*-E grade displayed on the certificate of completion.
Edexcel and Cambridge publish grade thresholds after each exam sitting on their respective websites to maintain transparency in the scaling process.
If you’re looking to apply to a top 30 university, aim for grades that sit in the A or A* band. For those considering US universities, the American equivalent for A Levels are the AP examinations.
The A-level results day for 2024 is Thursday 15 August 2024. You can collect your A-level results any time after 8am on results day – when they’re released by the exam boards.
There are a few different outcomes that could happen:
A Levels are superb, academically rigorous, and inspiring courses. However, they can also be demanding courses that require a serious commitment to diligent work. To be successful in A-Level study, students will need a secure foundation at the International GCSE level of study or equivalent.
We offer a wide range of A Level and International GCSE courses which are taught fully online, by experienced and outstanding teachers from around the world. CGA can provide a full programme of A Levels, to full-time CGA students, or we can offer a part-time programme: individual A Level courses which students can take alongside their academic programme in their home school. If you are keen to study A Levels then CGA would be delighted to hear from you!
