Welcome to Exceptional Academics educational blog page. Here you can see topics that our tutors and specialists have written to provide hints, tips, additional material and best practices, helping our clients to aid their children in becoming exceptional academics themselves.
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It’s a question that resurfaces every few years: are GCSEs still fit for purpose?
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When it comes to post-GCSE education, two of the most popular choices for students in the UK are A-Levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB). But how do they compare, and which one is right for your child?
What are A-Levels?
A-Levels are subject-specific qualifications, typically taken by students aged 16-18. Most students take three to four subjects, allowing them to specialise in areas relevant to their chosen university degree.
What is the IB?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is a broader academic programme requiring students to take six subjects (three at a higher level, three at a standard level) along with Theory of Knowledge (TOK), an Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) components.
Key Differences
| Factor | A-Levels | IB |
|
Subjects |
3-4 subjects | 6 subjects |
|
Depth vs Breadth |
In-depth knowledge | Broad curriculum |
|
Coursework |
Varies by subject | Extended essay & internal assessments |
|
Assessment |
Mostly final exams | Mix of coursework & exams |
|
Recognition |
UK universities | Global recognition |
Which One Is Best?
Choose A-Levels if: Your child has strong subject preferences and wants to specialise in subjects they love or excel in.
Choose IB if: They prefer a broad education and might study abroad.
Regardless of the choice, expert guidance is key. Our tutors specialise in both A-Levels and IB examination preparation, and can support students in whichever examination curriculum they follow.
Email us for bespoke and subject-specialist A-level or IB advice!
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What Are A-Levels?
A-Levels (Advanced Level qualifications) are subject-based exams typically taken by students aged 16-18 in the UK. They play a crucial role in university admissions, as students usually need three strong A-Level grades to secure places at top universities.
A-Levels are divided into two parts:
AS vs. A2: What’s Changed?
Until 2015, AS-Levels counted as 50% of the final A-Level grade, but reforms removed this link. Now, AS-Level results no longer contribute to the final A-Level grade.
How Many A-Levels Should a Student Take?
Most students take three A-Levels, but some high-achievers take four. The right number depends on:
University requirements: Oxbridge and medicine applicants may benefit from four subjects.
Workload: A-Levels are significantly harder than GCSEs. Independent study and research are required at this level.
Course flexibility: Some students prefer to start with four subjects in Year 12 and then drop one in Year 13.
Choosing the Right Subjects
STEM fields: Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
Humanities & Social Sciences: English, History, Geography, Politics, Psychology.
Creative subjects: Art, Drama, Music.
Business & Economics: Economics, Business Studies, Accounting.
University Admissions: What Matters More?
Since AS results no longer contribute to A-Levels, universities now rely on:
Personal statement & references.
Admission tests & interviews: Required for Oxbridge, Medicine, and Law.
If you’re unsure which A-Levels to take, our expert subject specialists can guide you.
Email us now to discuss how we can help with bespoke and subject-specialist A-Level tutoring!
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