Home >> Education >> Qualifications >> A levels & International Baccalaureate (IB)

These are Advanced or level 3 qualifications.

A levels

A levels are two year courses. In the first year you take an AS (Advanced Subsidiary) and continue for a full A level (A2) in the second year.  

There are lots of different subjects available - from art and design, performing arts, health and social care to geography, German and travel and tourism.

To start an A level course you usually need at least 5 GCSEs A* - C. Some schools and colleges may ask for a GCSE grade B in the subjects you plan to study.

A levels are changing. They now feature more open-ended essay questions, as well as an extended project.  Another new feature is the introduction of an A* grade. From 2010, this will be awarded to those who get 90% or more in their exams. 

IB

This is a qualification taken and recognised throughout Europe.

The IB is equivalent to 3 full A levels. On the IB you study your own language, a foreign language, maths, a science subject and a humanities subject.

You usually need 4/5 GCSEs A* - C to start an IB. Some schools and colleges may ask for more than this.

 

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