A-levels, or Advanced Levels, are qualifications in particular subjects that are usually the final academic courses taken before a student attends university. They are subject-based qualifications for students aged 16 and above, and are usually studied over two years, leading to qualifications recognized for entrance into universities. A-levels are assessed using a set of examinations, and are graded A*-E. Although A-levels are a UK-based qualification, they are the most widely accepted qualification worldwide.

The A-level is broken down into two parts: the AS Level and A2 Level. Students typically study three or more A-levels over the final two years before commencing university. If a student chooses to take an AS Level subject and its exams without sitting the A2 Level the next year, they won’t complete the A Level qualification and instead receive just the AS qualification. Typically, students take 4-5 AS Level subjects in their second to last year of high school. They will then go on to take 3-4 of those subjects at the A2 Level, often taking extra subjects at AS Level to fill up their timetable (without completing the full A Level) in their final year of high school.

There are no compulsory subjects with A-levels. Instead, students are free to choose the topics that interest them the most or feel will benefit them for their future studies or careers. Students typically study three subjects, but can choose to study four. Subjects include English Language & Literature, French, Maths, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography, Psychology, Economics, Art, Information Technology and Modern Foreign Languages such as French, German, and Spanish.

A-levels are primarily assessed by exams, which take place at the end of the second year of study. Following reforms implemented between 2016 and 2018, AS Levels are now a separate qualification, and most universities do not consider AS levels alone adequate for entrance.