Where do your grades actually rank in the UK?

A-level results have fluctuated significantly in recent years. The pandemic years of 2020-2021 saw exceptionally high results due to teacher-assessed grades. 2022 and 2023 saw deliberate normalisation. 2024 results are broadly comparable to 2019 (the last pre-pandemic year), though some subjects show modest upward drift. The A* grade was introduced in 2010 specifically to provide additional differentiation at the top of the distribution.

Most sixth forms and colleges require a minimum of grade 5 or above in relevant subjects for A-level study, with many requiring 6 or 7 for competitive or highly academic programmes. For STEM A-levels, a grade 7 in the related GCSE is commonly expected. Entry requirements vary significantly between schools and colleges.

Grade 4 is the "standard pass," equivalent to the old grade C. Grade 5 is the "strong pass," roughly equivalent to a low B under the old system. The government uses grade 5 as the benchmark for accountability purposes in many contexts. For progression to further study and most employment, grade 4 is the minimum. Selective sixth forms and universities typically require grade 5 or above in core subjects.

In 2024, 8.5% of A-level entries received an A*. An A or above was achieved by 26.5% of entries. The A* rate varies significantly by subject: mathematics, further mathematics, and sciences tend to have lower A* rates than some arts and social science subjects. It also varies by school type, with independent schools and grammar schools typically achieving higher A* rates than comprehensive schools.

The UCAS tariff assigns points to A-level grades: A* = 56 points, A = 48, B = 40, C = 32, D = 24, E = 16. University entry requirements are often expressed in UCAS points or as specific grade combinations. For example, an offer of AAA (144 UCAS points) is the same under the tariff as an A* and two Bs. Students can calculate their total UCAS points by adding up tariff points across all qualifications.

Grade 9 is the highest GCSE grade, introduced with the new 9-1 numbering system in England. It is broadly equivalent to an A** under the old system, designed to differentiate the very highest performers. In 2024, only 4.5% of GCSE entries received a grade 9. It is not required for sixth-form entry at most schools, but is a strong credential for the most competitive sixth forms and private schools.

Yes. A-levels can be retaken, either in full or as individual papers at some exam boards. Most students who retake improve their grades, though the improvement depends on the additional preparation undertaken. Universities may specify requirements for grades achieved in a single sitting, so it is worth checking individual university policies before retaking. Many universities accept retakes, particularly if there are extenuating circumstances.