How To Pick Your GCSE'S and A LEVELS

The minimum requirement for many universities is 3 A levels, so do not feel pressured to take additional subjects if you are not comfortable with the workload. Some students take an additional AS in school or an A level outside of school which can still be used for applications to university. It would be better to take 3 A levels and good results, then take one more than you can handle and do worse.

When choosing an A Level, keep in mind that certain degrees have subject requirements. An example would be to study engineering, most universities require A level maths, and at least one other science. The same applies to Medicine, where chemistry is considered essential. Make sure to keep your options open and do your research!

You might not know what you want to study, so pick A level subjects that you will enjoy- they often end up leading you to your dream career.

• To start off, consider choosing subjects that you did well in GCSE

• Choose a range of subjects that will keep your preferred options open.

• Our school offers A levels and BTEC qualifications, a combination of these might suit your learning more.

• There are key subjects that are widely accepted by all universities such as Maths, English, Psychology, Biology and Chemistry.

• For those considering applying to universities in the UK: Make sure to look into which of your subjects are seen as “softer” and “harder” by Russel Groups.

Furthermore for GCSES:

• This really depends on what you’re interested in, and what your plans for the future are. This is the first time you get the chance to focus on subjects you do well in.

• You should be taking around 9 subjects, this is what future universities will look for.

• There are a few compulsory subjects such as Maths, Science (Triple or Double) and English (Language and Literature).

• Keep in mind that you can’t take business and economics together as they are very similar subjects.

• If you have an Arabic passport it will count as one of your GCSE’s which leaves you with two options.

• Put the subject you really want in the first block as this will give you a higher chance to get into it.

• This will be the beginning in shaping your future!

Nada Al Mosheky, 12A

Shophia Allam, 11A