The Differences Between AS, A2 and A-Levels Explained

If you're a student preparing to study for your exams, you might have come across the terms AS, A2, and A Levels. But what are they exactly? AS, A2, and A Levels are all part of the British education system and are exams taken by students in their final years of secondary school. They are also recognised by universities and colleges in the UK and around the world as a standard of academic achievement.

AS Levels, or Advanced Subsidiary Levels, are exams taken by students in the first year of their A Level studies. They are designed to be half of a full A Level and can be taken as standalone qualifications. AS Levels cover a range of subjects and give students an opportunity to test the waters before deciding which subjects they want to pursue at A Level.

A2 Levels, on the other hand, are taken in the second year of A Level studies and are the other half of the full A Level. They build on the knowledge gained in AS Levels and require students to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

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A Levels are the full qualification and are made up of both AS and A2 Levels. They are the most advanced level of secondary education in the British system and are widely recognised as a gold standard of academic achievement.

What is the difference between an AS and A-level?

If you're a student in the UK preparing for your exams, you might be wondering what the difference is between AS and A-level qualifications. Well, in the British education system, AS (Advanced Subsidiary) Level and A-level are both qualifications taken by students in their final two years of secondary school (also known as sixth form).

The main difference between the two is that AS-level is essentially the first half of an A-level qualification, while A-level is the complete course. So, if you study an AS-level course, you'll only cover half the material that you would if you were studying the full A-level.

In the UK, students typically take AS-levels in their first year of sixth form, which is known as year 12. AS-levels are designed to provide students with an understanding of the subject and the skills required to progress onto the full A-level course. These qualifications usually consist of exams taken at the end of the year.

A2-levels are taken in the second year of sixth form, which is known as year 13. A2-levels are the second part of the full A-level course and build on the knowledge and skills acquired during the AS-level year. These qualifications also typically consist of exams taken at the end of the year.

In England, there has been a recent change to the AS-level system. AS-levels have been decoupled from A-levels, meaning they no longer count towards the final A-level grade. Instead, they are a standalone qualification that can be taken separately. This change has been made to give students more flexibility in their choices and allow them to focus on achieving higher grades in their A-levels.

Under the new system, students can take AS-levels in their first year of sixth form, but they are not required to do so. If they choose to take AS-levels, they can use them to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a particular subject area. However, if they decide not to take AS-levels, they can still progress onto the full A-level course in their second year of sixth form.

Senior online tutors say that AS-levels are often used as a stepping stone to A-levels, giving students the chance to get a taste of a subject before deciding whether to continue with the full A-level course. AS-levels are also useful for students who may not be sure if they want to take a particular subject at A-level, but still want to keep their options open.

If you’re still deciding on your A-level subjects, have a look at our articles on the Top 10 Hardest A-Levels and Top 10 Easiest A-Levels.

Comparison:

AS, A2, and A-levels are important qualifications that are offered to students in the British education system, and they have specific differences that students should be aware of. Here are some statistics and facts that can help explain these differences further:

Level of Specialisation: AS-levels are less specialised than A2-levels, and A2-levels are less specialised than A-levels. This means that as students progress through these qualifications, they are expected to have a deeper understanding of the subjects they are studying. For example, at AS-level, students may study a range of subjects, while at A-level, they may choose to specialise in just one or two subjects.

Number of Exams: AS-levels require a single exam per subject, while A2-levels require two exams per subject, and A-levels require four exams per subject. This means that as students progress through these qualifications, they are required to take more exams and demonstrate a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Grading System: AS-levels, A2-levels, and A-levels are all graded on a scale from A to E, with an A grade being the highest. This grading system is used to measure the academic performance of students and is an important factor in determining whether students are accepted into university or other higher education institutions.

Importance in University Admissions: A-levels are the most important qualifications for admission to university in the UK. Many universities require students to have at least two A-levels in order to be considered for admission, and the grades obtained in these qualifications are a key factor in determining whether students are accepted into their chosen course of study.

Availability of Subjects: AS-levels, A2-levels, and A-levels are offered in a wide range of subjects, including maths, science, the humanities, and languages. This means that students have the opportunity to specialise in subjects that interest them and that are relevant to their chosen course of study.

An expert A-Level Maths tutor said:

"AS Levels are introductory courses that students take in the first year of college, serving as a foundation for A2 Levels, which together comprise the full A-Level qualification. While AS Levels offer a broad overview, A-Levels are more in-depth and are crucial for specialization and university preparation. Choosing the right AS subjects is key, as they lay the groundwork for the more challenging A2 courses."

In terms of British students, A-levels may offer more scope than AS or A2-levels. This is because A-levels are more specialised and require a deeper understanding of the subject matter, which means that students studying at this level may be more engaged and interested in learning about the topic.

Is A2 more difficult than AS?

If you're wondering whether A2 is more difficult than AS, the answer is a bit complicated.

In terms of difficulty, it really depends on the individual student and the subjects they are studying. Some students may find AS more difficult because it involves adjusting to a new level of academic rigour, while others may find A2 more challenging due to the increased depth and complexity of the topics covered.

Additionally, the difficulty level can also vary depending on the specific subject. A-Level Physics tutors point out that some subjects, such as mathematics or physics, may have a steeper learning curve and require more advanced skills and knowledge at the A2 level. Other subjects, such as English literature or history, may require more analytical and critical thinking skills, which can be developed over time.

So, to sum it up, whether A2 is more difficult than AS really depends on the individual student and the subjects they are studying. Both levels require hard work, dedication, and a commitment to learning, so it's important to approach each with an open mind and a willingness to push yourself to achieve your best.

Can you do A2 without AS?

The answer is yes, you can do A2 without having taken AS Level, but it might be more challenging as A2 builds on the knowledge and skills acquired at AS level. However, it is important to note that some subjects may have specific prerequisites, so it is always best to check with your school or college before making any decisions. If you are considering taking A2 without having taken AS, it may be a good idea to do some additional research and preparation beforehand to ensure you are adequately prepared for the course. This could involve independent reading, seeking support from teachers or A-Level tutors, or taking online courses or tutorials to gain the necessary knowledge and skills.

What happens if I fail my AS levels?

Failing your AS levels can be a disappointing and stressful experience, but it doesn't mean the end of your academic journey. If you fail one or more AS levels, there are a few different options available to you.

Firstly, you may be able to reappear for your AS exams in the following academic year. This gives you a chance to improve your grades and continue with your A-level studies. It's important to note that if you choose to reappear, you'll need to cover the costs of the exams yourself.

Another option is to continue with your A-level studies but drop the subject you failed at AS level. For example, if you failed your AS maths, you could still continue with your A-levels in other subjects such as English or science.

Ultimately, failing your AS levels can be a setback, but it doesn't have to derail your future plans. With perseverance, hard work, and careful consideration of your options, you can still achieve your academic goals. You can even go to university without A-Levels.

Making the Right Choice for Your Future Education Goals

In conclusion, choosing the right course to pursue can be a daunting task, but it is important to remember that it is a decision that can shape your future education and career goals. The choice between AS, A2, and A levels should be based on your academic abilities, interests, and career aspirations.

AS levels provide a strong foundation in subjects and can be a steppingstone towards A levels or higher education. A2 levels build upon the knowledge gained from AS levels and provide more advanced skills and knowledge in the subject area. A levels are more comprehensive courses that cover a broader range of topics in the subject area and are recognised by universities worldwide.

It is important to note that the level of difficulty for each course varies, and each student should choose a level that challenges them while allowing them to succeed. Regardless of the course chosen, it is essential to work hard, be committed, and strive to achieve your best.

The choice between AS, A2, and A levels depends on your academic goals and interests. Each course has its benefits, and it is up to you to choose the one that aligns with your future aspirations. Take the time to research and explore your options, and remember that with hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goals and reach your full potential.

Confused about which one to pick? Find out how our Oxbridge tutors can help prepare you for admissions to the top universities.

Do AS level results count towards A2?

Yes, AS level results can count towards A2. In fact, this is one of the advantages of taking AS levels – they can help boost your overall A-level grades. AS levels can be used as a way to demonstrate your ability in a subject early on, and they also give you the opportunity to gain some UCAS points that can be used when applying for university.

When you move on to A2, your AS level grades will usually be combined with your A2 grades to give you an overall A-level grade. The weighting of your AS and A2 grades will depend on the specific subject and exam board you are studying with, so it's important to check the requirements for your particular course.

Overall, doing well in your AS levels can help set you up for success in your A2 levels and beyond.

Difference between being a UK and international student

As a UK student, taking AS, A2, and A levels is a rite of passage. These exams are a crucial part of the British education system and are required for university admission. International students may find the process different, as their education systems may not have the same structure. However, both UK and international students can benefit from the A-Level resources by TutorChase.

It's important to note that there are some differences in spelling between British and American English, such as the use of 'travelling' in British English versus 'traveling' in American English. As for the UK and England, the UK is made up of four countries, including England, and has its own government and education system.