How to choose the right A levels

Nobody expects a 16 year old student to know what they want to do with the rest of their lives. There are some 30 year olds who still don't know! However, it is worth bearing in mind that your choice of A Level subjects can greatly affect your future university prospects...

Certain courses require certain A Levels

Some university courses require applicants to have the right grades in the right A Level subjects. Some of them are no-brainers, but some might surprise you...

• Want to do a pharmacy course at university? You'll need to have chemistry, as well as at least one from maths, physics, and biology.

• Think English is the future course for you? It should go without saying that English literature and English language should be included in your A Level choices.

• Planning on studying Economics at university? Maths A Level is a must, but economics A Level isn't always necessary!

• Hoping to study Geology some day? You'll need at least two A Levels from maths, physics, biology, and chemistry.

Are you still unsure about university?

If you think you probably want to go to university but you're unsure what you want to study then there are several things you can do. If you have a particular talent for music or art, for example, choose an A Level in this if you think you'll want to pursue it. There are also several facilitating subjects that you can study at A Level which will open up multiple courses to you...

• English
• Maths
• History
• Geography
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Modern languages

Remember that A Levels are tougher than GCSEs

There's quite a big jump up from GCSE to A Level because they're gearing you up for the intensity and autonomy of studying for an undergraduate degree. If you want to succeed at A Level you'll need to put much more work in than you think. Bearing this in mind, try to choose your A Level subjects based on future career plans, subjects you enjoy, and subjects you think will be of benefit to you in your future education.

Many universities don't mind what A Levels you did

Don't let the information above scare you too much when it comes to choosing your A Level subjects! There are many courses that you can get onto regardless of what subjects your A Levels are in. Of course, you'll still need to meet the grade or points requirement to get onto the course. The following courses are examples of those which are typically open to students with the right grades in any subject: