About AS and A levels
An A level qualification consists of advanced subsidiary (AS) and A2 units. The AS is a stand-alone qualification and is worth half a full A level qualification. It normally consists of two units (assessed at the standard expected for a learner half way through an A level course) that together contribute 50 per cent towards the full A level.
The A2 is the second half of a full A level qualification. It normally consists of two units (assessed at the standard expected for a learner at the end of a full A level course) that together are worth 50 per cent of the full A level qualification. For A level qualifications started before September 2008, the qualification structure will normally comprise three AS units and three A2 units.
Most units are assessed by examination but some are assessed by internal assessment. The AS covers the less demanding material in an A level course. The A2 covers the more demanding material. For example, in the A2, learners might:
- specialise in an area they studied at AS
- extend their knowledge and understanding of the subject by studying new topics
- improve their skills.
Also at A2, students will combine knowledge, skills and understanding from across the A level course through synoptic assessment. Revised A level specifications are being introduced in September 2008, with a new A* grade awarded from 2010 to those students who have achieved both of the following:
- a grade A overall at A level
- the A* on an aggregated A2, that is 180 out of 200 on the uniform mark scale (UMS) for the combined scores of the two A2 units.
The A* grade will not be awarded at AS level because the more challenging material is introduced at A2 only.