Your A Level subjects shape which degrees you can apply for. The right combination keeps doors open; the wrong one can close them. Start with the degree, then work backwards.
Common combinations by degree
| Degree | Usually required | Useful third / fourth subject |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine / dentistry | Chemistry, Biology | Physics or Maths |
| Engineering | Mathematics, Physics | Further Maths, Chemistry, Computer Science |
| Computer science | Mathematics | Computer Science, Further Maths, Physics |
| Economics | Mathematics | Economics, Further Maths |
| Business / accounting | Often none specific | Mathematics, Economics, Business, Accounting |
| Pharmacy | Chemistry | Biology, Maths or Physics |
| Law | None specific | Essay-based subjects such as English, History |
Students in Pakistan
If you plan to apply to Pakistani universities, you'll need IBCC equivalence for your O and A Levels. Medical and engineering admissions also involve entry tests such as the MDCAT or university-specific tests, which assume Biology, Chemistry and Physics (medicine) or Maths and Physics (engineering). Taking these subjects at A Level makes the entry tests much easier.
Applying abroad
UK universities list required and preferred A Levels on every course page. US and Canadian universities look at your overall profile, but strong Maths and science grades still matter for STEM programmes. Check at least five target universities before you commit.
How to choose between subjects you like
- List the subjects your target degrees require.
- Add the subjects where your O Level or IGCSE grade was A or A*.
- Look at the A Level syllabus for each: do you enjoy the content, not just the grade?
- Avoid combinations with heavy overlap unless your degree needs them.
How we help A Level students
Our A Level course covers Cambridge, Edexcel, AQA and OCR, with senior subject specialists teaching one-to-one from $18/hour or in small groups from $40/month. Popular subjects include Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics.
Frequently asked questions
01How many A Levels should I take?
Three A Levels is the standard requirement for most universities. Some students take four, often including Further Maths, but three high grades are worth more than four average ones.
02Which A Levels do I need for medicine in Pakistan?
Students applying to medical colleges in Pakistan usually take Biology, Chemistry and Physics, get IBCC equivalence for their A Levels, and sit the MDCAT. Requirements can change, so check the current rules each year.
03Is Further Maths necessary for engineering?
It isn't required by most universities, but it is recommended by some top engineering and maths programmes and makes the first year of university much easier.
