[Choosing A-Level Subjects for Science Degrees in the UK]

When students study A-Levels in the UK, they typically choose to study 3 to 4 elective subjects. A-Level subjects are not categorised into arts, sciences, or commerce. However, UK universities usually require students to study specific combinations of A-Level subjects to qualify for admission to certain degree programmes. Since there are numerous possible combinations of A-Level subjects, this time we will focus on popular A-Level subject combinations for science degrees and introduce them to parents and students.

Mathematics + Further Mathematics + Physics

If mathematics is a student's strength, they can consider studying mathematics and further mathematics to demonstrate clear logical thinking skills. Adding physics to this combination shows that the student is closer to top universities and highly competitive programmes. With this combination, students can expand their options to various fields such as engineering, data sciences, actuarial studies, computer science, etc. For students who excel in mathematics, this combination is an excellent choice for securing admission to top-tier universities.

Chemistry + Biology + Mathematics

For students aspiring to study medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, or other competitive programmes, the above combination is a basic requirement. Most medical schools require applicants to have studied two out of mathematics, chemistry, or biology. If students are already determined to pursue a medical career, they will know that studying all three subjects—chemistry, biology, and mathematics—will increase their chances of getting into medical school. Additionally, this foundation combination is also suitable for students considering health sciences programmes at universities, such as physical therapy, radiography, nutrition, and pharmacy.

Physics + Mathematics + Chemistry

If students are not interested in biology, they can choose a combination of physics, mathematics, and chemistry. With this combination, they can pursue subjects like engineering, computer science, and other university disciplines. By combining their knowledge of chemistry, students can even consider more specialised courses such as chemical engineering. At the same time, this combination also provides opportunities for students interested in studying the natural sciences.

Physics + Mathematics + Art and Design

When students see this combination of art and physics, most of them have a desire to study architecture at university. For architecture programmes, students generally need to study mathematics and physics to demonstrate their computational abilities in calculating load-bearing capacities, quantities of building materials, and managing construction budgets. The addition of Art and Design to this combination helps train students' sense of aesthetics and sensitivity. Importantly, most architecture programmes require applicants to submit a portfolio with 15 to 20 pieces of work from different design areas. If students haven't studied Art and Design at A-Level, it can be challenging to put together an outstanding portfolio through self-study. Additionally, the Art and Design course at A-Level includes a small amount of art history content, which provides more foundation for future conceptual design.

Psychology + Biology + Mathematics

Studying psychology at A-Level can provide a foundation for future study in psychology at the university level. However, not all boarding schools offer psychology as a subject. If students haven't studied psychology in high school, does that mean they can't pursue psychology at the university level? Not necessarily. However, since psychology falls within the realm of science and involves the exploration of the coordination between the brain and the body, it will involve many terms and theories related to biology. Therefore, most UK universities prefer students to have studied biology at A-Level to have a solid foundation.

Geography + Biology + Physics or Chemistry

In recent years, more students have shown interest in subjects such as urban planning, environmental science, earth sciences, geology, and renewable energy. Environmental engineering, which involves the complexity of engineering, also requires students to have a background in physics. For subjects like environmental protection and urban planning, it is recommended that students have studied geography.

The application and enrollment process for UK boarding schools generally takes place around September of the year before admission. Students applying for Year 12 may even need to complete A-Level subject exams in the autumn or winter of the year before enrollment. If students are still uncertain about subject choices, they can consider the suggested subject combinations above to plan for their future university studies.