A Level courses

Study A Levels in the UK

A Levels are the most common route to Higher Education in the UK, and are recognised by universities across the world. Studying A Levels is the advised route for international students who are aiming towards the highest ranking universities, or are looking to study medicine.

What are A Levels?

A Levels (Advanced Levels), are subject-based qualifications in UK secondary schools. International students typically study three or four A Level subjects over two years.

You will be assessed after your first year of study to ensure that you are on track to achieve the grades you need, but these results generally do not count towards your final A Level grade. They are, however, a good way to monitor your progress and great practice for your final exams. Your final assessment is by a series of examinations which take place at the end of your second year.

Your first year results will only count to your final grade if you are studying the International A Level syllabus at Bellerbys College Cambridge.

Choosing your A Level subjects

Choosing to study the right A Level subjects is very important as universities look for students who not only have good grades, but grades in the right subjects. If you already know what you want to study at university, you should think about choosing subjects which give you the best possible preparation for your chosen degree.

At Bellerbys, you will discover the right subject choices for you in an environment designed for you to thrive. A Levels at Bellerbys are tailored specifically for international students, through our teaching style, EPQ offerings and enrichment opportunities. We offer a range of academic programmes to suit your needs, including a choice of start dates and course lengths.

Study options

Our A Level programme lasts between 3 and 6 terms depending on your requirements. We also offer the opportunity to study the full A Level programme in just one year, or three terms, at our Brighton College.

At Bellerbys Cambridge, you can study International A Levels, which are designed with international students in mind, and feature AS examinations at the end of your first year. If you have already achieved a minimum of three B grades or above at AS Level CIE (Cambridge International A Levels) can the second year (A2) of the A Level programme.

Some A Level subjects are more frequently required for entry to university than others. These are known as ‘facilitating’ subjects, because studying them at A Level opens up a wide range of options for university study.

If you are undecided on what to study at university, consider studying two facilitating subjects at A Level to keep a wide range of degree options open to you.

Bellerbys' teaching style is specifically designed for international students, allowing students from overseas to excel within the British education system. As well as offering quality academics, we offer support to students through the exam period and the university application process.

Support ranges from help with UCAS and writing your personal statement, to attending our Easter Revision Programme. You can use the Easter holidays to improve your exam techniques and understanding core subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Economics.

Key facts:

  • Age: 15.5+
  • Course length: 3, 5, 5.5 or 6 terms
    (3-term available in Brighton only)
    (5.5-term available in Cambridge only)
  • Locations:
    • Bellerbys Brighton
    • Bellerbys Cambridge
    • Bellerbys London
      (Subjects vary by location)
  • English language entry requirements:
    IELTS 5.5 (IELTS 6.0 for 3 term and A2 level) or equivalent

Subject choices

* This is a facilitating subject preferred by UK universities.

Oxbridge preparation

An international student studying in the library at Bellerbys College Cambridge

Develop the skills you need to progress to top-ranking universities such as the University of Oxford and the University Cambridge. Bellerbys College provides support during the application process and entry exams, as well as quality academics.

Medical school preparation

International students doing a practical activity on the Elite Medics programme with Bellerbys College and Brighton and Sussex Medical School

If you are a gifted student aiming for medical school, A Level students can prepare for a medical degree at our Brighton and Cambridge Colleges. Develop the skills you need to begin your career in medicine, all whilst developing your English language abilities.

English Language Preparation

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If you don’t meet the English language entry requirements for the GCSE, A Level or Foundation programme, you can first study one to three terms of English speaking and writing.

Arathi from Malaysia

Arathi, a Bellerbys Cambridge student

"The teachers have been phenomenal in assisting me with my coursework and guiding me in my personal development. They helped me get placements for my voluntary work and work shadowing, which are pertinent in securing an admission into a reputable university."

Arathi from Malaysia - Studied A Levels and achieved A*AAB, now studying Medicine at University of St Andrews