When students complete their O Levels or equivalent, they step into one of the most critical phases of their academic journey — A Levels. But with so many subjects to choose from, one of the first and most important questions they face is: Which A Level subjects should I take?
Choosing your A Level subjects is more than just picking what you “like.” It’s about aligning your interests, academic strengths, and career goals with a set of subjects that will open doors to universities and professional fields later on. Whether you want to study medicine, engineering, business, law, or the arts, the A Level subjects you choose now can have a long-term impact.
In this article, we’ll walk through the available A Level subjects, popular subject combinations, how they relate to university admissions, and practical tips to help students and parents make informed decisions.
What Are A Levels?
The Advanced Level (A Level) is a two-year qualification offered under the Cambridge International Examinations (CAIE) or Pearson Edexcel systems. It’s widely accepted by universities around the world, including Pakistan, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and beyond.
A Level is typically studied after completing O Levels or IGCSEs, and students usually take 3 to 4 subjects. Some may opt for more, but universities generally make offers based on three subjects.
What makes A Levels unique is that each subject is studied in-depth, giving students a solid foundation in their chosen fields before entering university.
Common A Level Subjects Offered
The availability of A Level subjects can vary slightly depending on the school or country, but here are the most commonly offered options:
Science & Pre-Medical Subjects
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Further Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Psychology
Business & Economics
- Economics
- Business Studies
- Accounting
- Mathematics
- Statistics
Humanities & Social Sciences
- Sociology
- History
- Law
- Geography
- Global Perspectives & Research (GPR)
- Environmental Management
- Media Studies
Arts & Creative Subjects
- Art & Design
- Literature in English
- Drama
- Music
- Design & Technology
Languages
- English Language
- Urdu
- French
- Arabic
- German
- Spanish
Some schools also offer Thinking Skills, Global Perspectives, or General Paper as supplementary or enrichment subjects.
How Many A Level Subjects Should You Take?
Most students take 3 A Level subjects, especially if they are aiming for international universities, which typically make conditional offers based on three grades.
Some ambitious students choose 4 subjects, particularly if:
- They are applying to competitive programs (e.g., medicine, engineering, law)
- They want a backup option for changing career paths
- They have strong academic stamina
Taking more than 4 subjects is uncommon and can lead to stress or lower performance, so it’s not usually recommended unless there is a very specific goal and proper time management.
Choosing A Level Subjects Based on Career Goals
Let’s explore how different subject combinations align with popular university programs and career paths.
For Medicine or Dentistry:
- Biology (compulsory)
- Chemistry (compulsory)
- Physics or Mathematics (recommended)
Note: Most medical universities in Pakistan (like AKU, KMU, or UHS-affiliated colleges) require at least Biology, Chemistry, and Physics/Math at A Level for equivalence and entrance tests (like MDCAT).
For Engineering or Computer Science:
- Mathematics (compulsory)
- Physics (compulsory)
- Chemistry or Computer Science (optional but helpful)
Engineering universities in Pakistan and abroad often demand a strong math and science background.
For Business, Finance, or Economics:
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Business Studies or Accounting
Economics and Accounting are great complements for business programs. Mathematics is often essential, especially for economics or finance degrees.
For Law, Politics, or Social Sciences:
- English Language or Literature
- Law
- Sociology or History
Critical thinking, analytical writing, and reading-heavy subjects are key here. Some UK universities prefer at least one essay-based subject like Literature or History.
For Arts, Design, or Architecture:
- Art & Design
- Mathematics (for architecture)
- Literature, Media Studies, or Psychology
Creative portfolios are often required for art or design degrees, so having Art & Design in your A Levels is a major advantage.
Equivalence and Local Admission in Pakistan
In Pakistan, A Level students need to get IBCC equivalence to apply for local universities, especially medical or engineering programs. The IBCC converts A Level grades into local HSSC percentages. Here’s how it affects subject selection:
- Pre-Medical & Pre-Engineering students must have the same subject combination (Bio-Chem-Physics or Math-Phy-Chem) to qualify.
- Urdu and Pakistan Studies are required at the O Level stage for equivalence. If you haven’t taken them, you’ll need to appear in these exams separately (usually through CAIE or local board alternatives).
If you’re planning to apply locally, always check IBCC requirements and university policies before finalizing your subject choices.
Tips for Choosing the Right A Level Subjects
1. Align with your strengths
If you’re strong in math and analytical thinking, go for math-based subjects. If you’re creative and expressive, consider subjects like Literature, History, or Art.
2. Think long-term
Try to choose subjects that align with your future academic and career goals. You don’t need to decide your entire career now, but narrowing your direction helps.
3. Don’t follow the crowd
Just because your friends are choosing Business Studies or Biology doesn’t mean you have to. Choose based on your own interests and aptitude.
4. Check university requirements
Some degree programs have strict subject prerequisites. Research top universities (local and abroad) before choosing your A Level combination.
5. Balance your workload
Mixing all high-content subjects can become overwhelming. A good combination often includes one or two heavy academic subjects with one moderate or lighter option.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your A Level subjects is a major decision — one that can shape your academic journey and open or close doors to specific university programs. The best combination is one that balances your interests, career plans, and academic strengths.
Whether you’re aiming for medicine, engineering, business, law, or creative fields, A Levels offer the flexibility and depth to prepare you for it. Take your time, seek guidance, research thoroughly, and choose wisely.
Remember, it’s not just about what looks good on paper — it’s about building the skills and knowledge you need for the future you want.
