Your A-Level subject choices shape your university options and can influence your career path for years to come. While the pressure can feel overwhelming, understanding what universities actually look for helps you make confident, informed decisions.
This guide explains how to choose A-Level subjects strategically while staying true to your interests and strengths.
Understanding University Requirements
Specific Requirements
Some degree courses require specific A-Levels:
Medicine and Veterinary Science- Chemistry is essential at almost all universities
- Biology is required or strongly preferred
- A third science or Maths is advantageous
- Maths is essential
- Physics is required for most programmes
- Further Maths is often preferred for top universities
- No specific subjects required
- Essay-based subjects demonstrate relevant skills
- Avoid "soft" subjects at top universities
- English Literature A-Level typically required
- A second essay subject often preferred
Facilitating Subjects
The Russell Group universities identify "facilitating subjects" that keep the most options open:
- Mathematics
- English Literature
- Physics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Geography
- History
- Languages (Modern and Classical)
These subjects are most often required or preferred for degree courses. Choosing at least two facilitating subjects is wise if you are undecided about your future direction.
Subjects to Approach Carefully
Some A-Levels are viewed less favourably by selective universities. These are sometimes called "soft" subjects and include:
- Media Studies
- Film Studies
- Photography
- Performing Arts
- Business Studies (at some universities)
- Health and Social Care
This does not mean these subjects are worthless. They can be valuable:
- As a fourth A-Level alongside facilitating subjects
- For specific vocational pathways
- At universities that value practical skills
- When combined with strong grades in academic subjects
However, if you are aiming for competitive courses at top universities, ensure your core choices include facilitating subjects.
Creating a Strong Combination
Balance and Breadth
A good A-Level combination typically includes:
- At least two facilitating subjects
- Subjects that complement each other
- A mix of skills (analytical, written, practical)
- Subjects you genuinely enjoy
Complementary Pairings
Some subjects work particularly well together:
- Maths and Physics (essential for engineering)
- Maths and Economics (strong for finance and economics degrees)
- Biology and Chemistry (vital for medicine and life sciences)
- History and English (excellent humanities combination)
- Languages and any other subject (languages add value)
Avoiding Poor Combinations
Be cautious of combinations with too much overlap:
- Business Studies, Economics, and Accounting (too similar)
- Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Maths only (lacks breadth for some courses)
- All essay subjects with no analytical component (may struggle with science or maths requirements)
How Many A-Levels?
The Standard: Three A-Levels
Most universities require three A-Levels, and three excellent grades beat four mediocre ones. Focus on quality over quantity unless:
- You are genuinely capable of achieving top grades in four subjects
- A fourth subject significantly strengthens your application
- Your target courses specifically value breadth
When Four Makes Sense
Consider a fourth A-Level if:
- You are applying for very competitive courses (Medicine, Oxbridge)
- You want to study Further Maths alongside three other subjects
- You have a genuine passion for a fourth subject
- Your school recommends it and you can handle the workload
The EPQ Alternative
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) can be more valuable than a fourth A-Level:
- Demonstrates independent research skills
- Directly relevant to university-style work
- Lower time commitment than a full A-Level
- Increasingly valued by admissions tutors
Making Your Decision
Step 1: Identify Essential Subjects
If you have a career or degree in mind, check requirements:
- University websites list specific requirements
- UCAS provides course comparison tools
- Talk to careers advisors about your options
Step 2: Consider Your Strengths
Your best grades will come from subjects where you:
- Have genuine interest and motivation
- Possess natural ability or aptitude
- Enjoy the style of learning involved
- Have achieved well at GCSE
Step 3: Keep Options Open
If undecided about your future, choose:
- At least two facilitating subjects
- A combination allowing multiple degree pathways
- Subjects that develop transferable skills
Step 4: Be Realistic
A-Levels are significantly harder than GCSEs. Consider:
- The step up from GCSE in each subject
- The workload and assessment style
- Your genuine capacity to succeed
- Teacher recommendations and feedback
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing Based on Teacher Reputation Alone
While good teaching matters, teachers change and personal fit varies. Choose subjects, not just teachers.
Picking Subjects to Impress
Taking subjects you dislike to appear well-rounded backfires when grades suffer. Universities prefer high grades in subjects you enjoy.
Ignoring Career Requirements
Discovering too late that you need Chemistry for medicine or Maths for engineering is devastating. Research requirements early.
Following Friends
Your friends' choices suit their goals and strengths, not necessarily yours. Make independent decisions.
Underestimating the Workload
Four demanding A-Levels can overwhelm even capable students. Be honest about your capacity and competing commitments.
Subject-Specific Guidance
Mathematics
- Essential for STEM degrees, economics, and many others
- Consider Further Maths if naturally strong
- The jump from GCSE is significant
- Requires consistent practice and problem-solving skills
Sciences
- Biology suits verbal learners; lots of content to learn
- Chemistry bridges biology and physics; strong maths helps
- Physics is highly mathematical; complements Maths A-Level
Humanities
- History develops analysis and extended writing
- Geography offers unique combination of skills
- English Literature valued across disciplines
Languages
- Always valuable alongside other subjects
- Demonstrate dedication and cultural awareness
- Useful for international careers
- Consider continuing a GCSE language
Conclusion
The best A-Level choices combine strategic thinking with personal authenticity. Choose subjects that meet any specific requirements, keep appropriate options open, and allow you to excel through genuine engagement.
Remember that your approach to your studies matters as much as the subjects themselves. Passionate, motivated students achieve excellent results and compelling applications whatever their specific combination.
Start by researching requirements for courses that interest you, then build a combination that serves your goals while respecting your strengths and interests.