AS

• Advanced Subsidiary (AS) levels can be taken on their own, or combined with A2s to make an A Level.
• AS levels are designed to give you knowledge and understanding of a particular subject so you can decide if you're want to take things further.
• Equivalent to half an A Level, they mean you can try out more subjects before deciding which you want to specialise in.
• Usually taken in year 12, if you really like an AS level, you can turn it into full A Level by taking the A2 in year 13, or you can start new AS courses or do a GNVQ.
• A new, three-unit Vocational AS is available in a small number of subjects.
• There are also five AS qualifications that don't lead to a full A Levels. These are: Critical Thinking; European Studies; Science for Public Understanding; World Development and Social Science: Citizenship.

• It depends on the subject you're taking, but you're normally assessed through a mixture of 30% coursework and 70% exams.
• Practical tests are also included for some subjects.

• AS levels can be turned into A Levels by taking three more units at A2 level.
• AS can help you get ahead in the workplace, or they can count towards the requirements for higher education.
• Entry to university and colleges of higher education is worked out on a points system - all your qualifications add up to give you a score that determines your entry in to higher education.
• The points system changed in 2002 and now an A grade at A Level is worth 120 points - the same as an A grade in a six-unit Advanced GNVQ - and an E grade is worth 40 points.
• This score is halved for AS Levels, although there is no value for a grade E at AS Level.

• You'll probably need at least four GCSEs at grade C to take up to five AS Levels in Year 12.

Courses