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Latest Updates:
Updated August, 2025
A-Level Courses and Subject Selection
A-Level is undertaken after the completion of Ordinary Levels. Compared to O-Level, the courses are more challenging and require greater effort, longer study hours, and consistent dedication to achieve good grades. This is why students must select their subjects wisely, keeping in mind both their academic strengths and the subjects they studied in O-Level.
Unlike O-Levels, there are no compulsory subjects in A-Levels. Students have the freedom to choose from a wide range of optional courses. However, it is strongly recommended to select three subjects only, as:
- This is the minimum requirement for admission into top universities (excluding General Studies).
- Fewer subjects allow students to concentrate better and aim for higher grades.
When deciding on subjects, it is often helpful to choose courses that complement those taken at O-Level, since familiarity with the basics gives students a clear direction for future academic goals. Still, this is not a strict requirement. If a student feels their O-Level subjects did not align with their aptitude, or if their grades were unsatisfactory, they can opt for new courses at A-Level to realign their academic path.
Some subjects, such as Law and Further Mathematics, are considered double credit because of their complexity and workload, and are therefore counted as two courses.
The decision made at this stage carries long-term impact, as students typically pursue their chosen A-Level subjects throughout their higher studies and, in many cases, into their professional careers. This makes careful and thoughtful selection of subjects and combinations extremely important.
Every year, Pearson Edexcel and Cambridge International Examinations release lists of A-Level subjects offered in Pakistan, which are mentioned on the enrollment and registration forms. Students should keep in mind:
- Private candidates must check availability of their chosen subjects in their region.
- School candidates should verify with their institutions which subjects and combinations are being offered.
