Studying A-levels online

A-levels are internationally recognised qualifications that are required for entry into many universities and professional training opportunities around the world. Students typically study A-levels between the ages of 17 and 18 years. A-levels can help you to get a place at college or university locally or abroad, start the career you want or explore the subjects you love.

As a parent you may be wondering if you can study your A-levels online and will online A-levels be accepted by universities? You may also want to know how many A-level subjects you can take and what you can expect when studying your A-levels online.

Can I do A-levels online?

Yes, you can do A-levels online. In fact, distance learning is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many students because of the attainability, flexibility and convenience of studying online.

The biggest benefits to studying A-levels online is that you can work at your own pace, and at times that suit you. There are no traditional classes to attend, you can study in the evenings, or over the weekend, which will ensure you’ve got enough time to concentrate on your studies yet still benefit from full tutorial support every step of the way.

Are online A-levels accepted by universities?

The short answer is yes, they are! A-level exams are written at an authorised exam centre and the results are widely accepted across the globe, and that means that online A-levels are too.

How many A-levels can you take?

Deciding how many A-level subjects you should take is a big part of defining your future. While it is easy to assume that the more subjects you take the better, it’s important to think carefully about your workload, and how you can ensure you get the best grades possible. 

The minimium number of A-Level subjects required by all universities (even the best ones) is three. Students can take up to five A-Level subjects. Learners should make sure that they are able to maintain a high standard of work if they choose to take on the maximum number of subjects. 

What to expect when completing your A-levels online

International A-levels offer vast opportunities to study overseas. A-level exams are written in well over 100 countries worldwide and have international recognition and prestige. A-levels are recognised by the leading universities in the world, such as Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and MIT. This is because of the very high academic standards that have to be met when completing A-levels.

Studying A-levels online offers young people a flexible alternative which allows them to learn from home. Studying from home means you can work towards your A-levels flexibly in a way that suits your lifestyle, keeping your motivation high and eliminating any barriers. 

Instead of having to go to a traditional school each day, you can study in live online lessons from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a stable internet connection. Timetables are also more flexible than at a brick-and-mortar school, which leaves you with more time for personal study and revision, and for pursuing your interests and hobbies outside of school.

There’s a larger focus on independent study when taking online A-level classes. All subjects are taught in online sessions but there is also an emphasis on independent study outside the virtual classroom. That being said, online classes are much smaller than in traditional schools. This means that there is a lot more focus on the students and their individual needs and progress.

This allows teachers to tailor their lessons to the individual needs of students’ in their online classes, whether it be adapting to special educational needs, being mindful of personal circumstances, or stretching an exceptionally gifted student to new levels. Learning online also limits distractions from other students in the classroom.

How do students write exams when studying online

Although students at online schools study online from home, they do still take exams in-person. International A-level exams can be sat in examination centres around the world. 

If you are a student at an online school, you will need to register as a private candidate for exams ahead of time and enrol at a recognised exam centre. These authorised testing centres are the only venues where a student can write their A-level exams. The relevant centre administers the exams and students’ papers are marked by licensed examiners.

Cambridge International A-levels are globally recognised qualifications, known for their challenging courses and quality educational content, which is monitored by rigorous accreditation standards. Attaining top grades at A-level gives students the opportunity to apply to top-ranked international universities around the world.

Get Your Free Future-Ready Education E-book!

Studying A-levels online

Get Your Free Future-Ready Education E-book!

Studying A-levels online

Everything you need to know about a personalised education through online learning & homeschooling

Download Now

Other articles