Get Pro
Menu

A level

A subject-based level 3 qualification usually taken over two years from age 16, graded A* to E, and the main route to university in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Also called
Advanced level
Used in
England, Wales, Northern Ireland
Topic
Qualifications
Official page
gov.uk

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

Classfern Pro: report writer, Ask Fern, forum and jobs – no ads. What's in Pro Join the waiting list

AS level (Advanced Subsidiary level) England Wales Northern Ireland
A level 3 qualification equal to about 40% of an A level in size, graded A to E. In England the AS is a separate qualification that no longer counts towards the A level; in Wales and Northern Ireland it still forms part of the A level.
A level grading England Wales Northern Ireland
A levels are graded A*, A, B, C, D and E, with U for unclassified.
UCAS tariff All four UK nations (details may differ)
A points system that converts post-16 qualifications and grades into UCAS points so different qualifications can be compared for university entry, for example an A* at A level is 56 points.
Level 3 England Wales Northern Ireland
A qualification level that includes A levels, AS levels, T Levels, the IB Diploma, advanced apprenticeships and the Access to HE Diploma.

More terms: Qualifications

AAQ · Access to HE Diploma · Advanced apprenticeship · Applied general · Cambridge Nationals · Combined science

More terms starting with A · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.