What Is A Level Further Maths?

If you enjoy maths and want to stretch yourself further than the standard A Level, Further Maths could be a great fit. 

It’s a tough but rewarding subject that pushes your problem-solving skills further and helps you see maths in new, more advanced ways. Plus, it can open doors to top universities and exciting careers.

But what does that actually mean in practice? And is it the right choice for you? Let’s take a closer look at what A Level Further Maths looks like in real life.

Key Takeaways

• You need both subjects: Further Maths isn't a replacement for A Level Maths. You take them together to deepen and expand your regular maths knowledge.

• Further Maths is intense: The pace is fast and the concepts are abstract, but top universities (especially for STEM degrees) love seeing it on your application.

• You need to genuinely enjoy maths: If solving equations and getting your head around complex number problems is your thing, Further Maths could be the challenge you’re looking for.

What Does A Level Further Maths Involve?

Further Maths isn’t a replacement for regular A Level Maths. You usually take the two together. Think of it as building a second layer on top of what you’re already learning.

Most students study both subjects across two years, which does mean double the maths. But if you really enjoy crunching numbers, logical thinking, and challenging problems, it feels more exciting than overwhelming.

And it’s growing in popularity. A study by the Joint Council of Qualifications (JCQ) (opens in a new tab) states that Further Maths entries increased by a whopping 20% between 2023 and 2024. 

But the course isn’t about solving harder questions. It opens the door to whole new areas of mathematics. You’ll meet topics like complex numbers, matrices, and advanced calculus. These are ideas most students won’t see until university. It’s about deepening your skills and exploring the bigger picture of what maths can do.

What Will You Study in A Level Further Maths?

The exact topics depend on your exam board (OCR, Edexcel, or AQA), but here are the core areas you'll definitely encounter:

Complex Numbers

You'll learn about numbers that don't exist on the normal number line. These "imaginary" numbers might sound strange, but they're incredibly useful in engineering and physics.

Matrices

These are grids of numbers that help solve multiple equations at once. They're like mathematical superpowers for handling complex calculations.

Further Calculus

Remember struggling with basic differentiation and integration? Well, now you'll learn even more advanced techniques. It's challenging but incredibly satisfying when you crack it.

Further Algebra

This goes way beyond the algebra you know. You'll work with advanced polynomials, roots of equations, and mathematical proofs.

Further Mechanics or Statistics

Depending on your chosen modules, you might dive deeper into physics-based maths (mechanics) or advanced statistics and probability.

Content varies slightly between exam boards, so check with your school about which topics they cover. But there’s no need to worry. All routes give you an excellent mathematical foundation.

How Is A Level Further Maths Different from A Level Maths?

Further Maths is extra challenging. But it's also much more intense and goes much deeper into maths topics.

Key difference to remember:

• A Level Maths gives you the essential stuff everyone needs to know. 

• Further Maths takes those same ideas and goes wild with them, diving into abstract mathematical concepts that the regular Maths A Level doesn't even touch.

You’ll also:

• Cover more ground in less time: This means it’s important to keep on top of your workload. If you miss a couple of lessons and fall behind, catching up becomes a real struggle.

• Be tackling advanced concepts like complex numbers, matrices, and hardcore calculus - these are completely off-limits in standard A Level Maths.

Try and think of it this way: 

• A Level Maths is like learning to drive a car. 

• Further Maths is like jumping straight into a Formula 1 car. 

Sure, the basic principles are the same, but everything happens much faster and demands a lot more skill.

Who Should Consider Taking Further Maths?

You should definitely consider Further Maths if you:

• Actually enjoy maths (not just tolerate it)

• Find regular A Level Maths relatively easy

• Want to study a competitive STEM degree

• Love problem-solving and logical thinking

• Don't mind working harder than your classmates

It's particularly valuable if you're applying for degrees in:

• Mathematics

• Physics

• Engineering

• Economics

• Computer Science

And if you’re thinking of applying to Oxbridge to study Maths, taking Further Maths at A Level is recommended. Kate Bock, a specialist in guiding students through university admissions at Archer Franklin (opens in a new tab), says: “If a course highlights Further Maths as a preferred subject, it’s often an indication of the intellectual approach they expect you to be prepared for.” Elite universities looking for the best students want to see those applicants who have challenged themselves at A Level.

However, you don't need to be the absolute top student to succeed. With proper support and dedication, many students can handle Further Maths. It's more about your attitude and work ethic than natural genius.

What Are the Benefits of Taking Further Maths?

Taking Further Maths gives you several massive advantages:

University Admissions Boost

Top universities love seeing Further Maths on your application. It shows you're serious about mathematics and can handle challenging material.

Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills

The complex problems you'll tackle will develop your logical thinking in ways that benefit all your subjects.

Ideal University Preparation

First-year university maths becomes much more manageable when you've already covered advanced topics.

Other Subjects Benefit

Further Maths helps with other A Levels like Physics, where the advanced mathematical techniques can be incredibly useful.

Career Advantages

Many careers in finance, technology, and engineering value the analytical skills Further Maths develops.

What Are the Challenges of Further Maths?

Further Maths isn't easy, but it can be challenging and rewarding. Here's what you're signing up for:

Intense Pace

You'll cover material much faster than in regular A Level Maths. This means less time to absorb difficult concepts.

Heavier Workload

Taking two maths A Levels means double the homework, revision, and exam pressure. This means your time management becomes crucial.

Abstract Concepts

Some topics are difficult to get your head around because they’re quite removed from everyday experience.

When combined with other demanding subjects like Physics or Chemistry, the workload can feel overwhelming. You'll need excellent organisational skills and a real love for maths to thrive.

How Is A Level Further Maths Assessed?

The assessment structure varies by exam board, but here's the general pattern:

Paper Structure

You'll typically sit three or four exam papers, each lasting 1.5 hours. Some papers focus on core topics, while others cover optional modules.

Optional Modules

Most exam boards offer choices in areas like further mechanics, further statistics, or decision mathematics. If you’re not sure what to pick, your school can help you choose based on your interests and future plans.

No Coursework

Unlike some A Levels, Further Maths is assessed entirely through written exams. This means everything depends on your exam performance.

The exams test both your knowledge of mathematical techniques and your ability to apply this knowledge to solve complex, multi-step problems.

Tips for Succeeding in Further Maths

Want to smash it in Further Maths? Here's how:

Master Time Management

With two maths A Levels, you need a rock solid revision timetable. Prepare well in advance and allocate specific times for each topic and stick to them.

Practice Daily

Repetition really works. So, regular practice is essential for maths. Aim to do some Further Maths work every day, even if it's just twenty minutes.

Use Quality Resources

Take a look at the Further Maths past papers at Save My Exams. Past papers really are your best friend as they show you exactly what to expect and how questions are actually asked.

Completing these will highlight any gaps in your learning that our revision notes can help fill. The more problems you solve, the more confident you'll become.

Don't Fall Behind

In Further Maths, each topic builds on previous knowledge. If you don't understand something, ask for help immediately.

Form Study Groups

Working with classmates can help you tackle difficult problems and explain concepts to each other.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Further Maths Without A Level Maths?

No. You can’t take A Level Further Maths without also studying A Level Maths. The two subjects are designed to be taken together, with Further Maths building on the foundation provided by regular A Level Maths.

Most students study both qualifications at the same time over two years. This gives you a strong mathematical base before tackling the more advanced Further Maths topics.

How Hard Is Further Maths Compared to A Level Maths?

Further Maths explores maths topics in more depth and is a lot more challenging than A Level Maths. It covers more abstract concepts at a faster pace and requires stronger problem-solving skills.

However, "harder" doesn't mean "impossible." If you find A Level Maths manageable and enjoy mathematical challenges, you can succeed in Further Maths with dedication and proper support.

What Careers Benefit from Taking Further Maths?

Many careers value the analytical and problem-solving skills that Further Maths develops:

• Investment banking and finance

• Engineering 

• Computer science and software development

• Data science and statistics

• Research and academia

• Economics and consultancy

• Actuarial work

• Scientific research

The logical thinking and mathematical sophistication you develop opens doors across STEM fields and beyond.

Can I Drop Further Maths If It's Too Hard?

Yes, you can drop Further Maths if you find it overwhelming. Most schools understand that the subject isn't suitable for everyone.

But think carefully before dropping it. The workload can feel intense to start with, but it becomes more manageable as you develop better study habits.

Speak with your teachers first. They might suggest extra support or different revision strategies before you make a final decision.

Are You Ready for the Further Maths Challenge?

If you genuinely love maths and want to see what you're really capable of, taking A Level Further Maths is a great way to challenge yourself. Yes, it can be tough, but the skills you'll pick up and the opportunities it creates are seriously worth it.

Talk to your maths teachers about whether it's right for you, think about what you want to do at university, and be honest about how much work you're willing to put in. 

If you do decide to go for it, you'll be joining a pretty select group of students who are ready to take on some seriously challenging mathematical problems.

References

JCQ A Level Trends Study (opens in a new tab)

Archer Franklin University Admissions Support (opens in a new tab)