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Chemistry
Useful for Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Biology. Many Chemistry undergraduate degrees require Maths to be studied at A Level.
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Medicine
Chemistry is essential, plus 2 other A levels, one of which should be a Science subject. Biology is not essential but highly recommended and keeps more Medical Schools open to you.
Business Studies
No essential A level subjects, though Maths is useful and a decent GCSE result helps. Business Studies or Economics A levels are helpful, but reputable universities dislike you taking both — the same applies to Accounting and Management degrees.
Economics
Maths is useful for accessing more competitive Economics courses — many universities require it for Economics, and sometimes for PPE too.
European Business Studies
Usually requires a European Language such as French, German or Spanish.
Law
No essential subjects, though universities like to see subjects that show logical ability and strong writing — often a mix of Arts and Science, although this isn't essential.
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Psychology
Often no essential subjects, but sometimes a science subject is required (universities specify which sciences "count"). You will need GCSE Maths.
Computing
No essential subjects for most courses, although Maths might be required for some universities.
Engineering
Maths and Physics are generally needed, though this varies by university (you can apply without them via a Foundation year). Chemical Engineering degrees usually need Chemistry and Maths, not Physics.
Most Other Courses
Most other degrees — including Accountancy, IT, Marketing and Politics — have no essential A level subjects, or just require an A level in the subject itself plus any two others. Always check each university's website — Unifrog is a great platform for this, linking directly to course pages from your shortlists.
Not all A Levels require the subject to be studied at GCSE so some subjects may be picked up again at A Level even if you do not do a GCSE in them. See the guide below for more information.
Speak to your subject teachers about your potential to study a subject at A Level.
They know you, your strengths (and weaknesses!) and will be completely honest with you. Listen to them!
