A Level Maths vs Further Maths: Key Differences

Choosing your A Levels is stressful enough without having to work out the difference between two similar-sounding subjectsl. When it comes to A Level Maths vs Further Maths, there’s a lot to consider. 

Think about your university options. Some degrees expect Further Maths, whilst others are  happy with standard Maths. Get it wrong and you might find yourself scrambling later. 

To clear the confusion, we'll break down exactly what each subject involves, how they compare, and help you decide whether you need Further Maths for your future goals. 

Key Takeaways

• A Level Maths is a standalone qualification covering pure maths, mechanics, and statistics, whilst Further Maths is an additional A Level that goes deeper into advanced topics like complex numbers, matrices, and proof.

• Further Maths is significantly harder and faster-paced than A Level Maths, requiring strong mathematical ability and genuine interest in the subject.

• Top universities often prefer or require Further Maths for Maths, Physics, Engineering, and Computer Science degrees, especially at Russell Group institutions.

• You cannot take Further Maths without also taking A Level Maths - they're studied alongside each other over two years.

What Are A Level Maths and Further Maths?

A Level Maths is one of the most popular A Level subjects in the UK, covering a broad range of mathematical topics, including:

• Algebra

• Calculus

• Trigonometry

• Statistics

• Mechanics

It's designed to give you a solid mathematical foundation useful for countless university courses and careers.

Further Maths (officially called A Level Further Mathematics) is a separate, additional A Level that you study alongside regular A Level Maths. Think of it as Maths 2.0. It builds on what you learn in A Level Maths but explores much more advanced and specialised topics.

Most students take both qualifications simultaneously over their two years of sixth form. You'll typically have separate lessons for each subject, though the content often overlaps and supports each other.

For more detailed breakdowns of A Level Maths and Further Maths, check out our comprehensive A Level Maths guide and A Level Further Maths guide.

What Topics Are Covered in Each Course?

The content is where these two subjects differ. A Level Maths gives you the essentials. Further Maths takes you into specialist territory.

A Level Maths Content

A Level Maths is typically divided into three main areas: 

1. Pure mathematics

2. Mechanics

3. Statistics

Pure Mathematics includes:

• Algebra and functions

• Coordinate geometry

• Sequences and series

• Trigonometry

• Exponentials and logarithms

• Differentiation and integration (calculus)

• Numerical methods

• Vectors

Applied Mathematics covers either:

• Mechanics - forces, motion, kinematics, moments.

• Statistics - probability, distributions, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression.

Our detailed A Level Maths Topics by Exam Board Guide will show you how Edexcel, AQA, OCR A, and OCR B structure these topics slightly differently.

Further Maths Content

Further Maths builds on the subject knowledge you’ve gained in A Level Maths. The content is more abstract, more rigorous, and requires stronger problem-solving skills.

Core Pure Mathematics includes:

• Complex numbers

• Matrices

• Further algebra and functions

• Further calculus

• Further vectors

• Polar coordinates

• Hyperbolic functions

• Differential equations

• Proof (including proof by induction)

Optional Applied Units might include:

• Further mechanics - rigid bodies, elastic collisions, advanced dynamics

• Further statistics - advanced hypothesis testing, chi-squared tests, probability generating functions

• Decision maths - algorithms, graphs, networks, linear programming

• Numerical methods

• Modelling with algorithms

Students choose optional modules based on their interests and university course requirements. 

For example: If you're planning to study physics or engineering, you'll likely pick further mechanics modules.

Have a read of our A Level Further Maths Topics by Exam Board Guide to dig into the details.

How Are They Assessed?

Both A Level Maths and Further Maths are assessed entirely through written exams at the end of Year 13. There's no coursework or practical component. Here’s an overview:

Both qualifications use a common grading scale from A* to E, with grade boundaries set after each exam series.

The exam boards each have slightly different specifications, so always check your specific exam board's requirements. Your school will tell you which board you're studying with.

How Hard Is Further Maths Compared to A Level Maths?

Further Maths is significantly harder than A Level Maths. Here's why it's more challenging:

• Pace and volume. You're essentially studying two A Levels' worth of maths content simultaneously. The pace is relentless, and you need to keep up with both courses at the same time.

• Conceptual depth. Topics in Further Maths are more abstract. Complex numbers and matrices don't have the same intuitive feel as basic algebra. You need to think mathematically at a higher level.

• Problem-solving intensity. Exam questions require multiple steps, creative thinking, and the ability to link different areas of maths together. There's less hand-holding than in A Level Maths.

• Independence required. Teachers often expect Further Maths students to be more self-directed. You'll need to practise extensively outside lessons and genuinely understand concepts rather than just memorising methods.

However, if you're naturally strong at maths and enjoy the challenge, Further Maths can actually feel more satisfying than A Level Maths. Many students find the advanced topics fascinating once they get into them.

Who Should Take Further Maths?

Further Maths isn't for everyone, and that's completely normal. Here's who should seriously consider it:

You should take Further Maths if:

• You consistently achieve top grades (8s and 9s) in GCSE Maths.

• You genuinely enjoy maths and find problem-solving satisfying.

• You're planning to study maths, physics, engineering, computer science, or economics at university.

• You're aiming for competitive universities, especially Russell Group or Oxbridge.

• You want to keep your options open for highly quantitative degrees.

• Your school offers Further Maths and can provide adequate teaching support.

You might want to reconsider if:

• You found GCSE Maths challenging or only achieved grades 6-7.

• You're taking Further Maths purely because others are, not because you enjoy it.

• Your other A Level choices are already very demanding and time-intensive.

• You're unsure about studying a STEM subject at university.

• Your school doesn't offer Further Maths with dedicated teaching time.

Remember, not taking Further Maths doesn't close doors. Plenty of students go on to study engineering or economics with just A Level Maths. Further Maths might give you an advantage, but it's not always essential.

University and Career Implications

This is where your decision really matters. Different degrees have different expectations.

Degrees that typically require or strongly prefer Further Maths:

• Mathematics (especially at top universities)

• Physics (particularly at Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial)

• Computer Science (at competitive institutions)

• Engineering (at some Russell Group universities)

For example, the maths faculty at Cambridge University (opens in a new tab) recommends applicants study as much maths as possible - this includes Further Maths.

Degrees where A Level Maths alone is usually sufficient:

• Economics (at most universities)

• Psychology

• Biology and life sciences

• Architecture

• Business and management

Many Russell Group universities, like Bristol (opens in a new tab), state that whilst Further Maths is not required for engineering degrees, it is listed among the optional must-have second A Level, and gives applicants a competitive advantage.

Always check the specific entry requirements for your target universities and courses. University websites list their requirements clearly, and they vary considerably between institutions.

Career implications

In practical terms, Further Maths demonstrates exceptional mathematical ability and work ethic to employers. It's highly valued in sectors like:

• Finance and investment banking

• Data science and analytics

• Actuarial work

• Software engineering and tech

• Research and development

However, A Level Maths alone is still a strong qualification that opens doors to countless careers.

Can You Take A Level Further Maths Without A Level Maths?

No. You cannot take Further Maths without also taking A Level Maths.

Further Maths builds directly on the content of A Level Maths. You need the foundational knowledge from regular Maths to understand the advanced topics in Further Maths.

In practice, students study both qualifications simultaneously. You'll have separate lesson time for each subject, and you'll sit exams for both at the end of Year 13.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Need Further Maths for University?

It depends entirely on your chosen degree and university.

For mathematics degrees at top universities like Cambridge, Oxford, and Bristol, Further Maths is either required or very strongly recommended. For physics degrees, it's increasingly expected at competitive institutions.

Always check your specific universities' entry requirements on their websites or UCAS course pages (opens in a new tab). If in doubt, contact university admissions teams directly.

Is A Level Maths Enough for Engineering or Economics Degrees?

For engineering: A Level Maths is sufficient for most engineering degrees at most universities. However, Further Maths gives you a significant advantage, especially at top institutions, and makes the first year of university considerably easier.

For economics: A Level Maths is almost always enough. Most economics degrees only require A Level Maths as a minimum. However, some programmes at institutions like LSE (opens in a new tab) require that, if Further Maths is taken, the third A Level should be an essay-based subject. 

If you're aiming for highly competitive courses, Further Maths strengthens your application, even if it's not strictly required.

Is Further Maths Considered a 'Harder' A Level?

Yes, absolutely. Further Maths is widely regarded as one of the most difficult A Levels available.

However, "harder" doesn't mean "impossible." If you have strong mathematical ability and interest, you can definitely succeed. The challenge is part of what makes the qualification valuable. It demonstrates serious academic capability.

Universities understand Further Maths' difficulty and give it appropriate weight in admissions decisions.

Final Thoughts

Taking the plunge and choosing Further Maths can be daunting. Remember, think about what A Level subject combinations fit your strengths, interests, and future plans.

A Level Maths is an excellent, versatile qualification that keeps a huge range of university courses and careers open to you. It's challenging but manageable, and for many students, it's exactly the right level.

Further Maths is the next step up. It's demanding, time-intensive, and requires genuine mathematical ability. But if you're planning to study a heavily quantitative degree at a competitive university, it could be the difference between getting your place and missing out.

Both qualifications are highly respected and will serve you well in the future.

References

AQA A Level Maths Specification (opens in a new tab)

AQA A Level Further Maths Specification (opens in a new tab)

OCR A Level Maths Specification (opens in a new tab)

OCR A Level Further Maths Specification (opens in a new tab)

OCR B A Level Maths Specification (opens in a new tab)

OCR B A Level Further Maths Specification (opens in a new tab)

Edexcel A Level Maths Specification (opens in a new tab)

Edexcel A Level Further Maths Specification (opens in a new tab)

Cambridge University - What do we look for? (opens in a new tab)

Bristol - BEng Mechanical Engineering (opens in a new tab)

UCAS Course Search (opens in a new tab)

LSE - BSc Economics  (opens in a new tab)