General Article Choosing A-level subjects: five points to consider

Topic Selected: Student Choices Book Volume: 403

The subjects you take at A-level can have a major impact on your future direction. So before embarking on two years’ hard work it’s well worth doing your research. Here’s our five-point guide to making your choices.

1. Ability and enjoyment

Thinking about the subjects you are good at, like and enjoy is a useful starting point.

If you enjoy your studies, you are likely to be more motivated. Similarly, having a natural ability in your chosen subjects can increase your chances of success. For this reason you often need a certain grade at GCSE to study a subject at A-level, so you’ll need to check what subjects are open to you.

But beware, there can be significant differences from studying subjects at GCSE to A-level. It doesn’t always follow that choosing a subject you enjoyed before will be a safe bet. Even if you feel you’re on familiar ground, it pays to do your research.

2. New subjects

Your school or college may offer A-levels in subjects that you’ve not studied before.

If any new...

Would you like to see the rest of this article and all the other benefits that Issues Online can provide with?

Sign up now for a no obligation FREE TRIAL and view the entire collection