Home / Blog / A-level Changes: What you need to know
As of 2024, normal grading arrangements will continue for A-levels. The transition to pre-pandemic grading is now complete. However, over the past few years, both the structure and content of A-level courses have changed. Here is a quick guide to those A-level changes. If you can't find the information you need here or would like to discuss your circumstances in more detail, please contact our Student Adviser Team who will be happy to discuss your options with you.

Your guide to the latest A-level Changes

Have all subjects changed?

Yes, but not all at the same time. The A-level changes have been spread across 3 years.

When will the new A-levels start?

For first enrolment in 2015

The first exam for these subjects will be summer 2017 for the A-level and summer 2016 for the AS level:

For first enrolment in 2016

The first exam for these subjects will be summer 2018 for the A-level and summer 2017 for the AS level:

For first enrolment in 2017

For details on subjects not offered by Oxbridge, please refer to Ofqual's timeline of changes.

When are the last exams for the current A-levels?

For subjects changing in 2015 (Biology, Business Studies, Economics, English Literature, English Language, English Language and Literature, History, Psychology, Sociology), the last exam for the current A-levels is summer 2016. It is possible that there may be a resit opportunity in 2017, but this is yet to be confirmed by Ofqual.

What will the structure of the new A-levels be like?

Linear. This means that the assessment will take place at the end of the course.

Does this mean that there will be no more AS level?

There will still be an AS level, but it will be a stand-alone course and will not count towards the A-level.

What will change within the content of the new A-levels?

There will be some changes to the A-level subject content, including:
  • All subjects (where relevant) will have an increased level of maths.
  • Practical work will not form part of the overall A-level grade for sciences but will be reported on separately.
  • History will span a longer time period.
  • Flexibility with geography fieldwork.

Where can I get more information?

You can get further information from Ofqual. We will also make sure that this page is kept up-to-date with the latest information. The course pages on Our Oxbridge website will also have information about the final exam opportunities for that subject. If you would like to talk through these changes or discuss your own requirements, please get in touch with our learning advisers who will be, as always, happy to help you.

Have all subjects changed under the new A-level system?

Yes, all subjects have undergone changes, but these have been implemented over three years.

When did the new A-levels start?

The rollout began in 2015 with different subjects transitioning in 2016 and 2017.

What are the content changes in the new A-levels?

Changes include more maths in relevant subjects, separate reporting for science practicals, extended historical periods, and flexible geography fieldwork.