As you progress through your secondary education journey, you’ll encounter a pivotal phase – AS Levels. A precursor to A Levels, AS Levels serve as a gateway to deeper subject exploration and academic specialisation.
Now we know, after the hard work of GCSEs, the last thing most people want is more studying. But you’ll have to give one last push! AS and A Level qualifications are important for job and uni applications, setting you up for future success.
In this guide, we’ll answer all your questions about AS Levels. From understanding what they involve, to how many UCAS points they’re worth and the difference between GCSEs, AS and A Levels, here’s everything you need to know.
Whether you’re navigating the complexities of subject choices, contemplating the transition from GCSEs, or pondering the role of AS Levels in shaping your university applications, we’ll help understand your options.
What are AS Levels?
AS Levels, formally known as Advanced Subsidiary Levels, are typically taken during the first year of sixth form (Year 12). These qualifications offer students an opportunity to delve deeper into their subjects, acting as a bridge between the broader curriculum of GCSEs and the specialised study of A levels.
Students normally choose their AS Level subjects while they’re still studying for GCSEs.
While it’s normal to study seven or more GCSEs (and sometimes even ten or eleven subjects), you’ll probably only study four AS Levels. Students sometimes drop one subject to focus on just three subjects at A Level – or keep all four going.
It may seem like a long way away, but keep your university and career goals in mind when choosing your AS Levels. For instance, if you’re interested in a degree in the sciences, AS Levels in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics could set you on the right path.
It used to be the case that AS Levels made up half of your final A Level grade. But this isn’t the case anymore. Even if you sit AS Level exams in Year 12, your A Level exams in Year 13 are entirely independent. They’re both standalone qualifications, meaning your A Level grades are solely reliant on Year 13 exams.
We’ve already written an in-depth guide to A Levels (and how they compare with AS Levels), so have a read if you’re professing straight onto these qualifications.
What is an AS Level equivalent to?
AS Levels are roughly equivalent to half a full A level, both in terms of content and academic depth. While AS Level courses normally take one year, A Level courses take two years.
AS Levels normally serve as an intermediate qualification, but they still hold standalone value. They cover a wide spectrum of topics within a subject, allowing students to develop a solid understanding of foundational concepts. A student pursuing an AS Level in Maths may cover topics like calculus, algebra and statistics (to name just a few), providing a comprehensive and valuable subject overview.
For this reason, universities and employers still value AS Levels. They’re helpful for college applications as well as UCAS points.
Generally speaking though, students use AS Levels as a stepping stone toward completing a full A level in the second year of sixth form (Year 13).
What is the difference between AS and A Levels?
The main distinction between AS and A Levels lies in the depth of study.
AS Levels offer a broader exploration of subjects, covering a range of topics within a chosen discipline. A Levels, on the other hand, involve a more specialised and in-depth investigation into a select few subjects.
Technically speaking, A Levels and AS Levels are both Level 3 qualifications. You study for AS Levels over just a single year, while A Levels take two years.
Here are some of the main differences.
AS Levels
- A broader subject exploration, providing students with a foundational understanding. This breadth can help students make informed decisions about their next academic steps – identifying strengths and preferences.
- Cover a diverse set of topics within each discipline, ensuring students gain a well-rounded knowledge base. This structure encourages a comprehensive overview rather than a deep dive into specific aspects.
- Typically taken in the first year of advanced studies: AS Levels are often part of a two-year advanced study program. Students usually take AS Levels in their first year, providing them with a broad academic experience before specialising in A Levels.
A Levels
- More specialised and in-depth investigations into selected topics. A Levels involve a narrowing of focus, allowing for a more thorough exploration of chosen disciplines. They’re often a crucial factor in university admissions.
- A Levels demand a higher level of knowledge, with more content and challenging mark schemes. You’re expected to delve deeply into the content, gaining in-depth expertise and a nuanced understanding of the material.
- A Levels are typically pursued in the second year of advanced studies, following the completion of AS Levels. This structure allows for a natural progression from a broader exploration to a more specialised focus.
What is the difference between GCSEs and AS Levels?
While both GCSEs and AS Levels are significant milestones in your secondary educational journey, they serve different purposes and represent distinct academic levels.
AS Levels demand a more sophisticated understanding of subjects compared to the foundational nature of GCSEs. They mark the beginning of a student’s specialisation journey, allowing them to focus on subjects aligned with their interests and career aspirations.
For instance, transitioning from GCSE to AS Level English Literature might mean studying a greater number of texts, using more subject-specific terminology and contextual understanding. History could involve going into greater detail on historical periods while you’ll encounter more challenging concepts in Maths and Sciences.
Is AS Level harder than GCSE?
In short, yes. AS Levels are harder than GCSEs. But they’re designed to be!
The difficulty of AS Levels compared to GCSEs will vary based on individual subjects and your personal aptitude. But AS Levels introduce students to more advanced concepts and methodologies, demanding a higher level of critical thinking and independent study.
So while you’re studying less in terms of breadth – you’re going into much greater detail.
Here are a few ways AS Levels encourage you to challenge your academic boundaries.
- Critical thinking: AS Levels require students to analyse information, draw connections and think critically about complex topics. For instance, in AS Level English Literature, students will analyse Shakespearean plays in greater depth than GCSE, going into more detail on individual themes, characters, linguistic techniques and historical context.
- Broad exploration: AS Levels provide students with a thorough understanding of three or four subjects. That’s a lot to do at once! This stage is often considered a foundation for more advanced studies (like A Levels) and allows students to explore a range of disciplines. You’re expected to draw links between topics, make comparative arguments and form conclusions.
- Multiple subjects and modules: Students usually choose several subjects at AS Levels. Within each subject, there are different modules or units. These modules cover diverse topics within the chosen discipline, contributing to a well-rounded knowledge base. You’ll have to understand and apply each module within your chosen subject when it comes to final exams.
- Varied assessments: Assessments can include written exams, coursework, or a combination of both. This depends on your subjects and the specific requirements of your exam boards. Some subjects have practical assessments or projects as part of the evaluation. But overall, the quality and quantity of essays, revision and homework are designed to push students past GCSE and beyond.
Is AS Level better than GCSE?
AS Levels are certainly more advanced than GCSEs. But are they better?
Well, the comparison between AS Levels and GCSEs depends on your academic goals. AS Levels serve as a bridge, offering a taste of the academic challenges of A levels while letting students make informed decisions about their academic future.
So if you aren’t planning on moving onto A Levels or university study, there might not be much point in studying AS Levels after GCSE.
There are plenty of options for students pursuing alternative paths. BTECs are particularly good for preparing you for the world of work, while apprenticeships and internships allow you to jump straight into professional life.
Should I do AS Levels?
Deciding whether to pursue AS Levels depends on various factors, including your academic goals, career aspirations and personal interests.
There’s no doubt, AS Levels and A Levels can be incredibly challenging. They’re also highly rewarding and provide you with lifelong skills and knowledge.
If you’re thinking about university, they’re one of the most common routes to a degree. Having AS Levels in addition to A Levels can bolster your university application, showing your academic dedication year-in, year-out.
For anyone unsure about the commitment of A Levels, AS Levels are a useful stepping stone. They let you experience the rigour of these qualifications without the lengthy time frame. AS Levels are also helpful for deciding which subjects you want to pursue in greater depth.
Do you need help with your AS Level studies?
AS Levels represent a crucial phase in the journey through secondary education, providing students with an opportunity to deepen their understanding and skills. If you need help with GCSEs, AS Levels or A Levels, get in touch with our expert team of academic coaches today.
From advice on study skills and exam preparation to academic life coaching and help with university applications, we’ll give you the tools to succeed.