Top 20 Easiest A-Levels (2025)

Choosing the right A-level subjects can be a daunting task for students. Some students may prefer to take the "easier" route to ensure better grades and less stress, while others may opt for more challenging A-levels to impress universities or employers, even if they require the support of an A-Level tutor. But what determines an A-level to be easy? Factors such as subject depth, workload, and examination statistics performance all play a role in determining an A-level's level of difficulty.

While choosing easy A-levels may seem like a good idea, there are both pros and cons to consider. On one hand, easier A-levels may offer better grades, less stress, and more time for extracurricular activities. However, on the other hand, it's important to note that these A-levels may not be as well respected by universities and may not be suitable for admissions to certain courses.

Now let's get right to the list. By speaking to two hundred teachers and university lecturers and looking at the statistics, here are the top 20 easiest A-Levels in 2025, with number 1 taking the top spot of the easiest subject.

Results from a survey of 200 teachers and university lecturers about what they believe to be the easiest A-Level subjects

20 - Philosophy

19 - Physics

18 - Music

17 - Geography

16 - Chemistry

15 - English Literature

14 - Religious Studies

13 - Political Studies

12 - History

11 - Economics

10 - Mathematics

9 - Drama

8 - Performing / Expressive Arts

7 - Classical subjects

6 - French

5 - Spanish

4 - Art and Design

3 - German

2 - Further Mathematics

1 - Other Modern Languages

Let's delve into each subject now in more detail.

20 - Philosophy

Philosophy enters our list at number 20. This subject explores some of life’s biggest questions: what is knowledge, how do we define morality, and does free will exist? It’s an essay-heavy subject, rewarding students who can think critically and structure arguments clearly.

It’s considered easier for those who enjoy discussion and analysis because success often depends less on memorising content and more on crafting strong arguments. In 2025, 51.1% of students in England achieved grades A–B* in Philosophy, making it a solid performer. Students who enjoy debating and writing essays will find it both accessible and rewarding.

19 - Physics

At number 19 sits Physics, a subject often feared for its mathematical content. However, students who are confident with problem-solving often thrive. The structured exam questions and predictable topic coverage make it manageable for focused learners.

While it requires logical thinking, Physics consistently produces good outcomes: 52.5% of students gained A–B* in 2025. This makes it statistically easier than many expect. For students who enjoy applying maths to real-world problems, Physics can feel surprisingly approachable.

18 - Music

Music claims the 18th spot. Combining performance, composition, and listening skills, it appeals to students with a strong creative background. Much of the assessment is coursework-based, allowing students to play to their strengths.

It’s considered easier for musically inclined students because practical skills carry significant weight in the grade. In 2025, 52.6% of candidates achieved A–B*. Those passionate about music often enjoy the blend of creativity and analysis, making this subject an attractive choice.

17 - Geography

Geography ranks 17th, covering human and physical landscapes, climate change, and globalisation. Its mix of data analysis and essay writing offers variety.

Many students consider it easier because it balances factual recall with structured essays, and the fieldwork component adds hands-on learning. In 2025, 53.8% of entries achieved A–B*. Geography appeals to students who enjoy both science and humanities, making it a flexible subject with good results.

16 - Chemistry

Chemistry takes 16th place. Although it involves abstract ideas like bonding and energetics, its structured assessments give well-prepared students a clear path to success.

In 2025, 54.9% of Chemistry students achieved grades A–B*. While it’s often seen as one of the harder sciences, strong teaching and practice can make it easier than its reputation suggests. Students with solid maths skills and an interest in experiments tend to perform particularly well.

15 - English Literature

English Literature sits at number 15. Focused on novels, plays, and poetry, it is perfect for students who enjoy reading and analysis.

It’s considered easier because essay-based assessments allow students to develop their own interpretations, and there is no single “right answer.” In 2025, 55.6% of students achieved A–B*. For those who enjoy writing essays and exploring texts, English Literature can be both engaging and accessible.

14 - Religious Studies

Religious Studies lands in 14th place. Covering philosophy, ethics, and the study of world religions, it encourages students to think deeply about moral and cultural issues.

It’s seen as easier because success depends on developing clear, persuasive arguments rather than rote memorisation. In 2025, 56.2% of students achieved A–B*. With its focus on open discussion and critical analysis, Religious Studies is well-suited to essay writers and debaters.

13 - Political Studies

At number 13 is Political Studies. Students learn about UK politics, global relations, and political ideologies.

It’s considered easier because the subject links closely to current affairs, making content engaging and relatable. In 2025, 58.2% of students achieved A–B*. Essay writing is central, so those with strong written communication skills often thrive. Political Studies is popular with students interested in law, journalism, or international relations.

12 - History

History ranks 12th. Covering major events and eras, it develops analytical skills and essay writing ability.

Students find it easier than some sciences because it focuses on interpretation of evidence and forming arguments. In 2025, 58.3% achieved A–B*. For those who enjoy debate, reading, and constructing essays, History is a strong subject that consistently delivers good results.

11 - Economics

Economics sits at number 11. A blend of theory, data, and essay writing, it covers markets, governments, and global trade.

It is often considered easier than pure sciences because its exams combine multiple-choice, calculations, and essays. In 2025, 60.7% of students achieved A–B*. Students who like both numbers and discussion often find Economics an enjoyable and accessible choice.

10 - Mathematics

Mathematics takes 10th place. A cornerstone subject, it requires logical reasoning and problem-solving.

It’s seen as easier for students who enjoy structured practice and past paper revision, since exam questions follow a clear format. In 2025, 61.1% achieved A–B*. With regular practice, Mathematics can be a high-yield subject, especially for disciplined learners.

9 - Drama

Drama ranks 9th, combining practical performance with written analysis.

It’s considered easier for expressive students because practical coursework makes up a significant portion of the grade. In 2025, 62.2% of Drama students achieved A–B*. It appeals to those who enjoy creativity, performance, and teamwork.

8 - Performing / Expressive Arts

At number 8 are Performing and Expressive Arts, a subject that blends dance, drama, and music.

Its reputation as easier comes from its emphasis on creativity and practical work rather than heavy theory. In 2025, 63.8% achieved A–B*. For artistic students, this is an engaging subject with strong outcomes.

7 - Classical subjects

Classical subjects, such as Latin or Classical Civilisation, take the 7th spot. Students explore the ancient world through literature, history, and culture.

These subjects are considered easier because cohorts are typically motivated and content is assessed mainly through essays. In 2025, 65.4% achieved A–B*. Students with an interest in history or literature will find these subjects manageable and rewarding.

6 - French

French comes in at number 6. Language A-levels build on GCSE skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

It’s easier for motivated linguists because small class sizes often mean more tailored teaching. In 2025, 66.5% of students gained A–B*. For those who enjoy languages and culture, French is both rewarding and high-performing.

5 - Spanish

Spanish ranks 5th. Like French, it builds on GCSE skills but benefits from being one of the fastest-growing subjects, with increasing relevance worldwide.

It’s considered easier because motivated students often enter with strong foundations. In 2025, 66.6% achieved A–B*. Spanish appeals to learners who want both good grades and a valuable life skill.

4 - Art and Design

Art and Design secures the 4th spot. Covering drawing, painting, sculpture, and design, it allows students to explore their creativity.

It’s seen as easier because coursework makes up a large share of the assessment, giving students more time to develop and refine their work. In 2025, 67.2% achieved A–B*. For creative students, Art and Design provides both freedom and strong results.

3 - German

German takes 3rd place. Though fewer students study it, those who do often achieve strong results.

In 2025, 72.3% of German students achieved A–B*. Smaller class sizes, motivated learners, and dedicated teaching all contribute to this performance. Students who enjoy languages may find German a rewarding and successful choice.

2 - Further Mathematics

Further Mathematics ranks 2nd. It extends beyond the standard Mathematics course into advanced topics like matrices and complex numbers.

It’s considered easier statistically because the cohort tends to be high-achieving and highly motivated. In 2025, 78.9% achieved A–B*. While demanding, it provides excellent outcomes for strong mathematicians.

1 - Other Modern Languages

At the top is Other Modern Languages, which includes Italian, Russian, Mandarin, and more.

It’s considered the easiest statistically because motivated linguists dominate entries, leading to outstanding performance. In 2025, a remarkable 87.1% achieved A–B*, making it the strongest subject by exam results. For those passionate about languages, this category offers both challenge and reward.

Should you choose easy A-Levels?

Choosing these "easy" A-levels on this list can be a tempting option for students seeking to reduce their workload and achieve high grades. However, it's important to consider several factors before making this decision. For detailed advice, read our articles: Choosing Your A-Levels: A Complete Guide and Best A-Level Subject Combinations.

While easy A-levels may be more manageable, they may not be the best choice if they are not relevant or useful for your future academic or professional plans. Make sure you choose A-levels that will set you up for success with your university applications, Additionally, It’s also helpful to understand how A-levels fit into the UCAS application process, which plays a key role in UK university admissions. While easier A-levels may require less work, you may find them less engaging and fulfilling if they do not align with your interests or strengths. This can lead to a lack of motivation and enjoyment in your studies.

Here's what an expert Oxbridge tutor who is also a lecturer at Oxford, had to say:

"Students should be careful about just choosing A-levels that are easy and that they think they can pass without much effort. In the end they may find that they don't enjoy studying the subject, which can lead to poor grades. Also many of these easy subjects close of options for what subjects you can study at university. Choosing one easy A-Level is okay, but I would caution students who may want to choose two or more."

A-Levels such as Media Studies, Home Economics, and Leisure Studies are also less respected, especially by universities such as Oxford and Cambridge. It is suggested that high achieving students applying to Oxbridge take challenging and facilitating subjects, like those on our list of The Top 10 Hardest A-levels.

Conclusion

Choosing A-level subjects is a crucial decision that affects both academic success and future opportunities, especially when comparing pathways like IB vs A-levels. While easier A-levels might offer short-term benefits like higher grades and less stress, their impact on university admissions and career paths must be considered. The top 20 easiest A-levels cater to diverse interests but should be chosen based on personal passion, career objectives, and university requirements to ensure a fulfilling and advantageous educational journey.