A-level

9月からGLICCに勤務してくれているSian先生がA-levelについての記事を書いてくれました。

Studying A-Levels in the UK

For students who are thinking about studying in the UK, A-Levels are one of the main pathways to university. They are a well-known and rigorous qualification recognised by all UK universities, including top ones such as Oxford and Cambridge.

When I studied A-Levels in the UK, I chose English Literature, Law, Chemistry, and History; this gave me a really interesting mix of arts, science, and humanities subjects. It also meant that when I applied to universities I could demonstrate a comprehensive set of skills across a range of subject areas. The good thing about A-Levels is that you can focus on three or four subjects in depth, which gives you a chance to explore what you enjoy most and prepare for your future course at university.

However, A-Levels are known for being challenging in the UK. The biggest difficulty is the amount of independent study. Teachers give guidance, but students are expected to read, research, and prepare on their own. Essays must be clear and analytical, and science exams require problem-solving, not just memorising facts. Despite this, I found my A-levels was an excellent transition from high school to university and I was excited by the freedom I was trusted with by my teachers to study independently.

Completing A-Levels shows universities that you can study at a high academic level, manage your time, and think critically. They are highly respected qualifications and give you the widest choice of UK universities.

My top tips to succeed:

• Make a study timetable and follow it. Even though the workload is heavier than high-school, it is designed to fit within a normal UK school timetable.
• Break down large tasks into smaller goals. A-levels are all about skills development.
• Review lessons regularly instead of only before exams.
• Ask for feedback and support from teachers and your fellow students. Collaboration is a key skill to develop before university. 
   

UCAS and University Entry

All UK university applications are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). When applying, students must list their predicted or achieved A-Level grades:

• Most universities require three A-Levels for entry.
• Top universities often ask for high grades such as AAA or A*AA.
• Some courses (Medicine, Law, Engineering) have very specific subject requirements. For example, Medicine almost always requires Chemistry and Biology. You must check university course requirements carefully.
• Universities also look at personal statements (an essay about your goals and interests) and sometimes ask for interviews or extra tests (like the LNAT for Law or UCAT for Medicine).
   

This means your choice of A-Level subjects is very important. You need to think about what degree you want to study at university and make sure your A-Levels match the entry requirements.

A-Levels vs. Foundation Courses

For international students, there are two common routes: A-Levels or a foundation course.

• A-Levels (2 years)
   
  
  • Pros: recognised worldwide, more subject choice, entry to all UK universities.
     
  • Cons: take longer and can be more expensive.
     
• Foundation courses (1 year)
   
  
  • Pros: shorter, often linked directly to a university, good option if you know exactly what course you want to study.
     
  • Cons: sometimes only accepted by certain universities, less flexible if you change your mind.
     

Best Institutions for International Students

Many UK schools and colleges specialise in helping international students adjust to life and study in the UK. Some of the best known are:

• Oxford International College (Oxford) – excellent results and strong guidance for top universities.
   
• Cardiff Sixth Form College (Wales) – top rankings and a very international student community.
   
• Concord College (Shropshire) – supportive environment with high academic standards.
   
• Bellerbys College (Brighton, London, Cambridge) – specialises in international students and provides English support.
   

You can also enrol with online schools such as GLICC.

In summary, A-Levels are demanding but they give you the best possible preparation for UK university entry through UCAS. For Japanese students, they are a strong pathway if you want access to the widest range of degrees and institutions.

Example timetable at UK Sixth Form for a student taking three A-Levels