IGCSE vs A Level: What’s the Difference?

Coming to the end of your IGCSEs and wondering what’s next? For many students, the next step is A Levels. But the shift can feel quite dramatic. Suddenly, you’re asked to narrow your subjects, study in more depth, and take more responsibility for your learning.

This article is here to guide you through the key differences between IGCSE and A Level. We’ll look at how the two qualifications compare in subject choice, assessment, teaching style, and academic expectations. 

You’ll also get practical advice on deciding whether A Levels are right for you, plus a breakdown of the skills you’ll need, how they link to university admissions, and answers to common questions about the transition.

IGCSE vs A Level: The Main Differences

Subject Choice and Specialisation

At IGCSE level, most students take around 8 to 10 subjects. This includes a mix of core subjects like English, Maths, and Science, alongside optional choices such as Geography, Business Studies, or Art. It gives you a broad foundation and helps keep your future options open.

A Levels are different, as you usually choose 3 or 4 subjects to study over two years. These subjects are picked based on your strengths, interests, or what you might want to study at university. The narrower focus means you go into much more depth, but you’ll drop several areas you studied at IGCSE.

Assessment Style

IGCSEs are assessed through a combination of final exams, coursework, and sometimes practical work or speaking assessments (depending on the subject). Most of the pressure builds towards the end of Year 11.

At A Level, there’s a heavier emphasis on final written exams. Coursework may still be part of some subjects (like English or Art), but most of your grade will be based on how you perform in timed, essay-based exams. You’ll be expected to show deeper understanding, structure longer answers, and apply your knowledge to unfamiliar scenarios.

Depth of Study

A Levels go far beyond IGCSE content. You’ll explore each subject in much greater detail, often covering topics that are more abstract, theoretical, or debate-based.

You’ll also need to think critically, write extended essays, and analyse ideas — rather than just learning facts. The goal is to prepare you for the demands of university-style study.

Teaching Style and Expectations

At IGCSE, lessons tend to be structured and teacher-led. Your teacher will explain what you need to know and guide you through the work step by step.

At A Level, the balance shifts. Teachers still support you, but they expect you to do more independent study: reading around your subject, completing essays or problem sets outside of lessons, and reviewing feedback to improve. Homework loads increase, and you’ll need to manage your time carefully.

Grading Systems

IGCSE grades are awarded per subject and use either the A*–G or 9–1 scale, depending on your exam board.

A Levels are graded from A* to E. An A* is awarded for the highest-level performance, and anything below an E is considered a fail.

What Skills Do You Need for A Levels?

Moving from IGCSE to A Level means stepping up, not just in subject difficulty, but in how you learn. A Level students are expected to be more independent, motivated, and organised. 

Here are some of the key skills you’ll develop to help you succeed:

Time Management and Organisation

With fewer subjects, you might think you’ll have more free time, but that’s not the case. Each one demands a lot more attention. You’ll need to plan your workload carefully, meet deadlines, and stay on top of revision over two years.

Analytical Thinking and Essay Writing

In many A Level subjects, especially essay-based ones like English, History, or Religious Studies, you’ll be expected to go beyond the basics. You’ll need to analyse arguments, structure persuasive essays, and back up your ideas with evidence.

Independent Study

At IGCSE, your teacher might chase you for homework or help you revise. At A Level, you’re expected to take the lead: reviewing your notes, reading around the subject, and preparing for lessons on your own.

Resilience and Motivation

A Levels can feel intense at times. You might get a lower grade than expected or find a topic challenging. Being able to bounce back, ask for help, and keep going is just as important as academic ability.

In my experience of working with A Level students, you won’t develop these skills overnight, and therefore, it can seem pretty challenging at first. So if you do find yourself struggling, don’t worry – you definitely aren’t alone. 

However, don’t be put off. Seek guidance from your subject teachers as soon as possible to help you adjust to the different approach to studying as you make the transition from IGCSE to A Level. 

How to Decide If A Levels Are Right for You

Are A Levels the right next step after your IGCSEs? These questions and example scenarios can help you reflect on your interests, strengths, and long-term goals.

Ask Yourself:

• Do I enjoy diving deeper into a subject?
  Because the focus is on fewer subjects, you need to really enjoy the A Levels you pick. If you love getting into the details, this is a good sign.

• Do I already have a career or university course in mind?
  If you’re aiming for a specific degree (like Medicine, Engineering, or Law), A Levels can help you meet subject-specific entry requirements.

• Am I happy to work more independently?
  A Level students are expected to do much more reading, revising, and planning outside class.

• Do I cope well with pressure and deadlines?
  A Levels involve more extended essays, bigger projects, and more intense exams, especially in Year 13.

Mini-Scenarios

Sophie loves Biology and Chemistry and wants to study Medicine.
She chooses A Levels in Biology, Chemistry, and Maths to ensure she meets the university requirements. A Levels are the perfect choice, giving her the subject depth she needs for her next step.

Narinder isn’t sure what he wants to do yet.
He enjoys a mix of creative and academic subjects, so he’s considering BTECs or the IB instead of A Levels so that he can study across a broader curriculum and keep his options open for a wide range of potential future careers.

Maryam struggled with revision for her IGCSEs but loves practical tasks.
She’s exploring vocational qualifications or apprenticeships where hands-on learning is more central to the course, and allows her to avoid some of those dreaded last-minute exam cramming sessions!

A Levels and University Admissions

A Levels are one of the most widely accepted qualifications for university entry in the UK and abroad. Most students use their predicted or actual A Level grades to apply to university through UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).

How Universities Use A Levels

• Universities typically make conditional offers based on UCAS points, and you’ll need to have studied three A Level subjects to qualify. For example: ABB for a Psychology course or AAA for Medicine.

• Certain subjects are often required for specific degrees. For instance:

  • Engineering: Maths and Physics

  • Medicine: Chemistry and Biology

  • Law: No specific subjects, but essay-based A Levels like History or English are useful

Your A Levels show not just academic ability but also that you’re ready to handle in-depth, independent study. However, there are other routes available to you at this stage.

A Levels vs Other Post-16 Routes

Whatever path you take, it’s important to check the latest information about entry requirements for your chosen universities and courses, especially if they ask for specific A Level subjects.

Pros and Cons of A Levels

Frequently Asked Questions

Are A Levels harder than IGCSEs?

Yes, they are.

The content in A Levels is much more detailed and builds on what you’ve learned in your IGCSEs. You're expected to think critically, write extended essays, and take more responsibility for your learning. You’ll spend less time reviewing facts and more time applying knowledge, analysing ideas, and forming arguments. Many students find the jump challenging at first, but with good study habits, it becomes manageable.

Do I need top IGCSE grades to do A Levels?

Not necessarily, but good results help to show you’re ready to study A Levels.

Most schools ask for at least a grade 6 (or a B) in the subjects you want to take at A Level. However, entry requirements vary. Some subjects, like Maths or Sciences, may require a 7 or higher to ensure you're ready for the step up. Always check with your school, especially if you’re switching to a new one after IGCSEs.

Can I change subjects from IGCSE to A Level?

Yes, in some cases.

You can often take new subjects at A Level that you didn’t study at IGCSE, such as Psychology, Sociology, or Politics. However, some subjects, such as Physics or French, usually require previous study. If you're switching, be prepared to do some catch-up work or take bridging lessons.

What happens if I start A Levels and don’t enjoy them?

You have options.

Many schools allow you to switch subjects in the first few weeks if something isn’t working. If you decide A Levels aren’t right for you altogether, you could consider alternatives like BTECs, apprenticeships, or the IB Diploma Programme. The important thing is to speak up early. Teachers and advisors are there to help you succeed and will help find the best fit for you.

Final Thoughts

Moving from IGCSE to A Level is a big step, but it’s one you can absolutely handle with the right preparation and mindset. The demands are greater: you’ll go deeper into each subject, manage more independent study, and need to think and write at a higher level. But you’ll also get the chance to explore subjects you care about, develop your skills and academic ability, and prepare for life after school.

When deciding whether A Levels are right for you, think about your interests, strengths, and future plans. Don’t rush the decision, and don’t feel like you have to figure it out alone. Ask your teachers, attend taster sessions, and talk to older students about their experiences.

Most importantly: don’t just follow the crowd. As an A Level teacher, I’ve seen too many students embark on unsuitable courses because their friends wanted to study them. It always ends badly. Ignore what your friends are doing. It’s your journey, and choosing your next step is about finding the right fit for you.