A Levels is a UK-based qualification that is offered to students before entering university. It is considered a Year 12 qualification, which is equivalent to STPM or Malaysian Matriculation (Matrikulasi).

In Malaysia, A Levels courses offered are either governed by the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) or Edexcel examination boards.

Unlike most other pre-university courses, A Levels is 100% exam-based, and any coursework does not count towards your final exam score. Students typically take 3 subjects throughout the programme.

This course is recommended for those who are academically-inclined, preferring to take their time to master the subjects and having only 1-2 exams throughout the duration of the course.

A Levels in Malaysia require a minimum of 5 credits (C and above) at SPM, O-Level or equivalent.

Certain A Levels subjects, such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Further Mathematics, have subject pre-requisites that you need to fulfil. What this means is that you need to have studied and achieved the minimum required grades for the relevant subjects at SPM level in order to take these subjects in A Levels.

To study A Levels, you will need to have an SPM qualification or equivalent, such as IGCSE or O-Level. SPM leavers will need to meet the minimum entry requirements of the college they are applying for.

Generally, A Levels courses take 15 to 24 months, depending on the pathway you choose to pursue.

After completing your A Levels, you can proceed to university to pursue your degree, either overseas or locally depending on your preference.

Each year, thousands of students take A Levels as a pre-university qualification before entering university.

Here are some of the top advantages of studying A Levels:

• High standards and recognition
• Passport to study anywhere in the world, including USA, UK, Canada, New Zealand and Australia
• Gives you in-depth knowledge about your chosen subjects
• Prepares you well for competitive degrees, such as Medicine and Pharmacy
• Trains analytical and critical thinking skills

If you are having doubts whether to study A Levels or not, here are some articles that you should check out:

• Your Guide to A-Level in Malaysia
• What’s After SPM: Are You Choosing The Right Course (Infographic)
• 5 Practical Tips When Applying for College

Still not sure which pre-university course you should study? Try out our Course Recommender and find out which pre-university programme is the right fit for you!