A-level Education: A Quick Guide for Students and Parents

What are A-Levels?

The Advanced Level, or A-Level, is a pre-university qualification equivalent to other programmes such as the Australian Matriculation, Canadian Pre-university and Malaysian STPM.

Since its inception in 1951, the highly sought-after UK-based qualification conducted by the Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) has provided students with in-depth knowledge and key skills that are essential in a range of work environments.

Cambridge International A-Level has a course duration of 18-24 months and requires a minimum of 5 credits (grade C and above) in SPM/IGCSE O-Level or equivalent. With more than 55 subjects offered in different combinations, students have a wide selection of subjects to choose from.

It is also important to note that the subjects offered in A-Level often include prerequisite subjects that prepare students for university and equip them with the skills required for higher education.

So, whether you have a solid education plan laid out or are open to new opportunities, this UK-based qualification provides you with a globally recognised foundation for your future.

What can I expect taking the exam?

Students sit for the University of Cambridge International Examinations Advanced (A) Level in two phases:

1) Advanced Subsidiary or AS Level (Year 1) which accounts for 50% of the overall marks for each subject.

2) A2 Level (Year 2) which accounts for another 50% of the overall marks for each subject.

Students who have successfully completed the AS Level move on to the A2 Level examinations. Universities require the overall total grade of both AS and A2 Level for university entrance.

An A-Level certificate will not be conferred without passing both the AS and A2 components.

What subjects should I choose?

When choosing your A-Level subjects, it is important to consider your aptitude, interests, academic strengths, and the career you are interested in.

At Kingsley, our commitment to offering a broad A-Level programme allows our students to align personal motivations and academic strengths with their studies.

The following list includes common A-Level subjects:

• Mathematics
• Biology
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Further Mathematics
• Sociology
• Psychology
• Business Studies
• Accounting
• Economics
• Law
• Literature
• History

A-Level at Maple Leaf Kingsley International School

Kingsley offers an innovative approach to A-Level that will open the doors to top universities and exciting careers. Our programme is focused on building a solid foundation in key areas while preparing students for further study by encouraging them to think independently.

Our students in Kingsley study, learn and grow in a beautiful landscape with 24-hour security provided. With a goal to encourage every student to reach their full potential, the number of students in each classroom is scaled down for enhanced engagement. This allows collaborative learning experiences and optimal interaction between teachers and students, as well as peer-to-peer.

Kingsley is equipped with experienced staff and state-of-the-art facilities that are on par with international standards. A-Level students will also have access to exclusive facilities such as international standard Science labs, Computer labs, Wireless network across campus, Dance Studio, Music Room, Cafeteria, Library, Olympic-sized swimming pool, Culinary arts kitchen, Badminton and Table Tennis court, Football field and much more!

This ensures that students enjoy learning in a sophisticated setup while maintaining health through sports and co-curricular activities that become a part of their daily lifestyle.

In addition to this, Kingsley also provides guidance and preparation for UCAS applications to universities in the UK. We assist students with scholarship applications to affiliated parties and other universities of student’s choice and provide IELTS English examination preparatory classes for students interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree in renowned universities worldwide.

Admissions to Maple Leaf Kingsley International School for A-Level commences in September and January each year for students who have completed their IGCSE/O Level examinations or equivalent.

All you need to know about A-Level (Sixth Form) and more!