Cambridge International and Pearson Edexcel A-Levels, taught by subject specialists. AS and A2, full-time or per-subject, with university application support.
A-Levels are the gold-standard pre-university qualification for students aged 16 to 19. Taken after IGCSE, they are recognised by universities in over 160 countries — including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, South Africa and Kenya. For competitive courses like Medicine, Engineering, Law and Economics, strong A-Level grades are often the single most important part of an application.
At Impact, we offer A-Levels through both Cambridge International (CAIE) and Pearson Edexcel. Most students take 3 to 4 subjects over two years, split into AS in Year 12 and A2 in Year 13. The full A-Level — AS plus A2 — is what universities look at.
Unlike IGCSE, A-Levels are not about breadth. They are about depth. Students learn to argue, analyse, evaluate and write at a level that genuinely prepares them for university study — which is exactly why universities trust them.
Choose from over 20 A-Level subjects across the sciences, humanities, languages and business. Most students take 3 to 4 subjects.
Not sure which A-Levels to take? Your subject combination matters more than your grades for many degree courses — Medicine needs Chemistry, Engineering needs Maths and Physics, and so on. We offer free subject selection guidance based on your target university courses. Book a consultation and we will map out the right combination with you.
A-Levels are demanding. Our job is to make sure you understand the content deeply, then master the exam technique that turns understanding into grades.
A-Levels are split into two stages. Understanding how they fit together helps you plan properly — especially if you are joining mid-way or retaking.
The first half of the A-Level. Students cover the core content of their chosen subjects and sit AS exams. AS results give a clear early signal of where you stand and what needs work before A2.
The second half, and the harder one. A2 content is deeper, more analytical and more independent. Combined with AS, it produces your final A-Level grade from A* to E.
We build university application support into the programme — personal statement workshops, course research, interview preparation and predicted grade reports for your applications.
Joining late or retaking? We accept students starting in September or January, students switching boards, and students retaking AS or A2 units to improve their grades. We will assess exactly where you are and build a realistic plan around your deadlines.
Both are globally recognised and accepted by universities worldwide. The differences come down to assessment structure, subject availability and personal learning preference.
| Feature | ● Cambridge (CAIE) | ● Pearson Edexcel |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment style | Linear, end-of-course exams taken at the end of Year 13. Heavy emphasis on extended writing, analysis and evaluation — especially in essay-based subjects. | Linear overall, but with more modular-style question structures and predictable mark schemes. Many students find it easier to see exactly where marks come from. |
| Subject range | Very broad international subject offering, with strong depth in sciences, maths and humanities. Popular with students applying to UK and Commonwealth universities. | Particularly strong in Maths, Sciences, Business, Economics and Psychology. Slightly fewer subjects than Cambridge but covers every core area thoroughly. |
| Learning style fit | Well suited to students who enjoy open-ended questions, discussion-based answers and independent thinking rather than formulaic responses. | Well suited to students who prefer clear, structured mark schemes and a more predictable exam format they can practise systematically. |
| University recognition | Universally recognised. Often the preferred qualification for competitive UK, US and Commonwealth university applications. | Fully recognised worldwide. Strong reputation in the UK, South Africa and across Africa, and accepted by universities globally. |
| Exam sessions | Main series in May/June, with Oct/Nov available for many subjects — useful for retakes and resits. | Jan, May/June and Oct/Nov series — slightly more flexibility for students who want to resit units. |
| Our recommendation | A great fit for students aiming at competitive universities, or those who enjoy the challenge of more essay-style and open-ended responses. | A great fit for students who want clarity in what is being asked and a consistent, structured approach they can drill systematically. |
Not sure which board to choose? During your free consultation, we walk you through both options based on your learning style, your subject combination and the universities you are targeting. There is no single right answer — we help you find the best fit.
A-Level exam registration is more complex than IGCSE — entry codes, unit combinations, coursework and practical endorsements, plus deadlines that vary by series. Get it wrong and you can lose a whole exam season.
We work with partner registered exam centres and handle the entire registration process on your behalf — selecting the correct syllabus and unit codes, managing entry deadlines, coordinating your exam timetable and keeping you updated at every step.
You walk into the exam hall prepared and confident — not stressed about paperwork.
Private candidates and retake students welcome. Not currently enrolled at Impact? No problem. We can guide you through registration for Cambridge or Edexcel A-Level exams, including resits, and connect you with the right exam venue. Contact us for current deadlines and fees.
Cambridge International
Pearson Edexcel
Book a free consultation. We will assess your current level, recommend the right subject combination and show you exactly how our A-Level programme works.
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