Thinking about taking on A Levels as an adult? You're not alone! Many individuals, despite being past the traditional school age, find themselves considering A Level qualifications to further their education or enhance their career prospects.
A Levels aren't just for teenagers finishing secondary school, they're highly regarded qualifications that serve you well at ANY age. In fact, you might find that you're more motivated, focused, and disciplined than you were during your school years.
But how exactly do you go about it? Explore the frequently asked questions surrounding A Levels for adults, including the benefits, eligibility requirements, the process of studying as an adult, and the potential costs involved.
Why study A Levels as an adult?
When you hear the term 'A Levels', you might picture a teenager navigating the tumultuous waters of their final school years. However, there are an increasing number of adults choosing to complete their A Levels for a number of reasons:
Career prospects: A Levels can help to advance your career by meeting essential job requirements, gaining specialised knowledge in a specific field, or simply by helping your CV to stand out in a competitive job market.
Furthermore, employers often value the dedication, discipline, and knowledge gained through adult education. A Levels can demonstrate your commitment to self-improvement and willingness to bridge the knowledge gap in your chosen field.
Access to higher education: For many, A Levels are a gateway to higher education. If you're considering a university degree or a course that with specific entry requirements, A levels are an excellent way to meet the required qualifications.
Personal fulfilment and development: For some, there may be a lingering sense of regret about not finishing A Levels in their younger years. Earning A Levels can be an incredibly rewarding personal milestone that represents growth, determination, and the fulfilment of a past aspiration.
Are there any entry requirements?
To study A Levels at a college, prospective learners typically need to have attained a minimum number of GCSEs at grade 4 or above.
Some A Level qualifications may also require specific GCSE qualifications related to the subject area; for example, a minimum grade in GCSE Maths is usually required to enrol onto A Level Maths.
Alternatively, adult learners have the option to study A Levels through online courses.
Unlike traditional colleges, online courses often have less stringent entry requirements and provide greater flexibility for learners with personal and professional commitments.
How to do A Levels as an adult?
- Determine your goals: Are you looking to enter higher education or improve your job prospects in a certain field? Determining your objectives will enable you to assess what route you need to take and the subjects you will need to study.
- Choose your ideal study method: Do you want to study your A Levels at a traditional college or through an online provider? Adult learners who are juggling multiple commitments often benefit from flexible learning modes, as it allows them to study at their own pace from the comfort of your home.
- Research providers: Start by researching the A Level subjects you're interested in and the institutions or learning providers that offer them. Consider factors such as course availability, flexibility, accreditation, and reputation.
- Check entry requirements: While adult A Levels are accessible to most, each educational institution may have specific entry requirements, so it's always good to check. For instance, some institutions may ask for prior qualifications, while others may consider relevant work experience.
- During your studies: Successfully completing A Levels as an adult requires effective time management and self-discipline. Create a study schedule that accommodates your other responsibilities and stick to it.
Financial considerations
A Levels are generally not free for adults because they are considered further education. However, you may be eligible for financial support, depending on your circumstances.
In some cases, employers may sponsor their employees' education, or you may be eligible for government grants, scholarships, or student loans.
Research the financial assistance options specific to your country or region to determine if you qualify for any support.
Conclusion
While revisiting A Levels as an adult can seem daunting, it's a fantastic opportunity to reshape your future.
With the right mindset and planning, along with the plethora of flexible learning options available, achieving A Levels alongside your existing commitments has never been more accessible.
At Open Study College, we've guided thousands of adult A Level learners to success, so we're speaking from experience when we say it's absolutely worth going for.
Feeling inspired? Explore our extensive range of online A Level courses today — offering the same qualifications as those in traditional schools and colleges, but designed to fit your schedule and learning style.
