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A Level Facts

Why study A Level at CATS Cambridge?

A levels are the classic British path into higher education and offer an excellent route to study at high ranking UK universities. A levels are a highly regarded qualification, and can open the widest choice of UK universities. At CATS Cambridge students can join Year 12 in both September and January to study for the A level qualification.

83%
of grades were awarded A*-B in 2024
100%
of grades were awarded A-B in Chemistry in 2024
82%
of grades were awarded A*-B in Mathematics in 2024

At CATS Cambridge, we identify the potential of every student and work with them to ensure they make the best progress they can make.”

Assistant Principal, Academic
Qadeer Afzal

A Level Overview

A levels are a focussed qualification of three subjects and English studied over two years, with examinations in the second year. At CATS Cambridge our A level delivery is specifically designed for motivated international students, with additional English language support to help them excel in their studies. We offer a wide range of subjects we work with each student to choose the best combination to achieve their university goals.

A Level qualifications in a wide choice of subjects, including Sciences, Humanities and the Arts

Develop desirable study skills, such as critical thinking, essay/report writing and solution-based thinking

Unlock progressing to a UK or international university

Get exposure to the style of assessment and teaching in the UK

Complete challenging research and homework tasks

Prepare for an English qualification recognised by international universities

A Level Subject Choices and Structure

Students study three subjects (plus English for students with English as a second language) during the two-year A level qualification, choosing one from each subject block:

September Start Subjects

Block A
Block B
Block C
Block D
Block E
Block F
French
Chemistry
Geography
History
Photography
Physics
Psychology
Sociology
Business
Fine Art
Maths
Psychology
Sociology
Biology
Business
Chemistry
Economics
Maths
Sociology
Biology
Further Maths
Maths
Chemistry
Economics
Further Maths
Maths
Physics
Chinese
Russian

January Start Subjects

Block A
Block B
Block C
Chemistry
Economics
Physics
Maths
Biology

January Start Subjects

Block A
Block B
Block C
Block D
Block E
Block F
Economics
Maths
Physics
Biology
Sociology
Chemistry

A LEVEL COURSE DESCRIPTORS

Please find the full course descriptors for each of our A Level courses in our Student Hub. They entail:

Subject Overview
Prior Learning Requirements
Exam Board Information
Course Content
Assessment
Textbooks/Revisions Guides
Higher Education Pathways
Complementary Subjects of Study

Questions about A Level

In some subjects, there is a small amount of assessment during the course, but mainly you will take formal exams at the end of the course. These exams are set by government approved examination boards across the whole of the UK, so the grades you get are highly valuable formal external qualifications.

A level results are published nationally in August each year. Grades range from A* (pronounced A-star) down to E.

A Levels are graded A*, A, B, C, D or E where A* is the highest grade and E is the lowest. Students must achieve an E grade or above to pass.
A Level results for schools in England released in August each year.

A level Testimonials