At the age of 16, many students will begin to study their A-Levels. For those, it will decide what their post-18 choices are. However, if you are past 18 years of age and didn’t complete your A-Levels, or would like to do a different A-Level, you may be wondering: can you take A-Levels at any age?
There is no upper age limit to doing A-Levels. So, in theory, yes! You can take your A-Levels at any age after the age of eighteen. It possible for some adults, who could be all the way up to the age of 79, to do their A-Levels. There is also no real lower age limit to A-Levels, so some even choose to do their A-Levels a year or two early. However, a lot of schools will not allow this, and it could be said that there is no real benefit to doing this.
In the rest of the article, we will be further discussing A-Levels, the age you can take it at, and if there are any limitations. If you would like to know about this, you should read on.
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Can you take A-Levels at any age?
In terms of post-eighteen, you can take your A-Levels at any age. There is no limit to age. Normally, the institution would look at GCSE grades. A grade 4 (grade C) in GCSE English and Maths is a minimum everywhere.
However, the college may also take into consideration the work experience and prior accomplishments of the applicant. This is because they are above the legal age to work, so may have even more experience.
After finding a qualifying college, they will tell you what prior requirements they have, as well as any exam logistics you need to know. You will sit the exam at the same time as other students, and in an exam hall, which may also be with other students.
You can also view this article by the Open Study College on taking A-Levels as an adult.
What age do you take A-Levels?
A-Levels are normally taken at age 17 or 18. They start after completing GCSEs, and finish after completing the A-Level exams. This means that most of the students study for A-Levels when they are in Year 12 and Year 13, and take the exams at the end of Year 13.
To find out more about when you take A-Levels, you can click on this link to a Think Student article.
Can you take your A-Levels early?
It is also possible to take your A-Levels early. This could be where the student is performing exceptionally well in that subject. Alternatively, it could be where the student speaks fluently in a language, and they want to take that A-Level early.
They will still need to do the coursework and sit the exams at the same time as everybody else. To find out more about when you can expect the exams to start and finish, you can click on this link to a Think Student article.
Can you take your A-Levels privately?
It is possible to take A-Levels privately. This could be by self-teaching, or home tutors. This is a great option for those who don’t like the classroom environment, or that way of learning.
It could be a good possibility for those who are carers and are unable to attend classroom learning. No matter what, it is a great option available to all ages studying A-Levels.
You will need to find a qualifying college that will allow you to do this and is supported by the exam board. If you would like to do the usual fieldwork and practical’s, you will need to ensure your college allows that.
Some may charge extra for practical work, as it will be done in person, not online. Alternatively, as an online student, you may not have to complete practical sections of the course. It is best to check what your specific exam board says about this.
If you would like to view what each exam board says about private candidates, you should refer to each link below.
What is the maximum and minimum age you can take A-Levels?
There is no maximum age to take an A-Level. Oxbridge Home Learning states that it is actually “incredibly common for adults to return to study when they have a clearer picture of their careers or studies” and “Eligibility to study A-levels does not come down to age”.
There is no real minimum age, but it comes down to your school. If you believe that you will be able to take A-Levels early, you should ask your school. From there you can begin the process and receive the best advice.