Choosing Your A-Levels: Your Guide to Making the Right Decision
So, you’re standing at the crossroads of your education, staring down the list of A-Level subjects and wondering, “What A-levels should I take?” It’s a massive question, and honestly, feeling a bit overwhelmed is completely normal. These choices aren’t just about the next two years; they can significantly shape your university options and even the early paths of your career. Don’t panic, though! Let’s break it down step-by-step to help you make confident, informed decisions.
Step 1: Look Ahead – Where Do You Want to Go? (University & Career)
This is the absolute golden rule: Your future goals are the biggest compass.
Got a Dream University Course? Research is your best friend! Head straight to the university websites for the specific courses you’re interested in. Look for their “entry requirements” or “typical offers” sections. Many courses have essential A-Level subjects you must have. For example:
Medicine/Dentistry/Veterinary Science: Almost always require Chemistry and Biology, often alongside Maths or Physics.
Engineering (Chemical, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical): Maths and Physics are usually essential. Further Maths is highly desirable, sometimes essential for top universities. Chemistry can be required or helpful depending on the specialism.
Economics: Maths is frequently essential (especially at top universities). Economics A-Level can be useful but isn’t always required.
Physics: Maths and Physics are essential. Further Maths is highly recommended.
English Literature: English Literature is often essential.
Modern Languages: The relevant language A-Level is usually essential.
Got a Specific Career Path in Mind? Think about the skills and knowledge base needed. If you’re aiming for Architecture, subjects like Maths, Physics, and Art & Design can be valuable. Aspiring Lawyers often benefit from essay-based subjects like History, English Literature, or Politics that develop critical analysis and argumentation. Computer Science degrees usually require Maths; having Computing or Further Maths can be advantageous.
Not Sure Yet? That’s Fine! If you’re still exploring options, focus on commonly respected “facilitating subjects”. These are subjects that keep a wide range of degree courses open because they are frequently required or preferred by top universities (especially Russell Group). They include:
Maths and Further Maths
English Literature
Physics
Biology
Chemistry
History
Geography
Modern Languages (e.g., French, German, Spanish)
Choosing two or even three from this list gives you flexibility. However, don’t force yourself into subjects you actively dislike just because they are “facilitating” – balance is key.
Step 2: Be Honest with Yourself – Passion Meets Practicality
While future goals are crucial, ignoring your own strengths and interests is a recipe for misery and potentially lower grades.
Play to Your Strengths: Are you naturally gifted at problem-solving? Maths or Sciences might feel more intuitive. Do you thrive on debate and analysis? History, Politics, or English Literature could be your zone. Do you love creating? Art, Design & Technology, or Music might be essential for your well-being and success. You’re more likely to excel in subjects you’re naturally good at and find engaging.
Does it Spark Joy? (Seriously!): Two years is a long time to study something you find utterly dull. Genuine interest fuels motivation, helps you delve deeper, and makes the workload feel more manageable. If you adore Drama but feel pressured to take Chemistry “just in case,” have a serious think about whether that trade-off is worth it for you and your likely university choices. Can you keep your passion and meet essential requirements?
Consider the Workload: Some subjects are notoriously demanding in terms of contact hours, coursework, and independent study. Sciences often involve significant practical work and lab reports. Maths and Further Maths require consistent practice. Essay-based subjects like History or English involve vast amounts of reading and writing. Be realistic about how much time you can dedicate and whether the workload of your chosen combination is sustainable. Mixing very heavy subjects might be tough.
Step 3: Seek Wisdom – Don’t Navigate Alone
You have a whole support network – use it!
Talk to Teachers: Your current subject teachers know your abilities and work ethic better than anyone. They can give honest feedback on whether an A-Level in their subject is a realistic and good fit for you. They can also advise on how the step up from GCSE feels.
School/College Careers Advisors: These professionals are goldmines of information about university entry requirements, different career paths, and which subject combinations open which doors. Book an appointment!
Older Students: Chat to students currently taking the A-Levels you’re considering. They can give you the real lowdown on the course content, teaching style, workload, and exams. What’s it really like?
Parents/Guardians: While the final decision is yours, discuss your thoughts with your family. They know you well and can offer valuable perspectives and support. They might also raise practical considerations you haven’t thought of.
Step 4: Avoid Common Pitfalls
Choosing Based Only on Friends: It’s comforting to stick with mates, but your friends’ ideal subjects might not be yours. You’ll likely be in different classes for most subjects anyway. Choose what’s right for you.
Choosing the “Easy Option”: Firstly, no A-Level is truly “easy” – they all require significant effort. Secondly, choosing a subject perceived as less demanding might limit your future choices or fail to challenge you, leading to boredom. Focus on subjects that will push you appropriately.
Ignoring Subject Requirements: This is the biggest risk. Falling in love with a university course only to realise you don’t have the essential A-Levels is heartbreaking. Do the research early!
Not Considering Combinations: Think about how your subjects work together. Are they all heavily essay-based? That’s a lot of writing! All heavily mathematical? That’s intense problem-solving every day. A mix can provide variety in skills and assessment styles, which can be beneficial. Consider if any subjects complement each other (e.g., Biology and Chemistry; History and Politics; Maths and Physics).
Making the Final Call: Trust the Process
Once you’ve done your research, reflected on your strengths and passions, and sought advice, it’s decision time.
Shortlist Wisely: Most schools/colleges ask for 4 initial choices (you’ll often drop to 3 after the first few weeks or at the end of Year 12). Aim for a combination that:
1. Meets the likely essential requirements for your top university course ideas (or keeps key doors open).
2. Includes subjects you are good at and enjoy.
3. Has a manageable and balanced workload.
Have a Back-Up Plan: Sometimes, even with careful planning, you might change your mind about a subject early on, or find it much harder than expected. Know what your school/college’s policy is on changing subjects in the first few weeks. Is there another subject you could realistically switch to?
The Bottom Line: It’s Your Journey
Asking “What A-levels should I take?” shows you’re taking this seriously. There’s no single perfect combination that suits everyone. The right A-Levels are the ones that align with your aspirations, play to your strengths, and genuinely interest you.
Take a deep breath, do your homework (literally and figuratively!), talk to the people who can help, and trust your instincts. Choosing your A-Levels is a significant step, but it’s also an exciting one – it’s the start of shaping your future on your own terms. Good luck!
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