A-levels
A-levels
A Levels (Advanced Levels) are qualifications taken in the UK by students typically aged 16 to 18/19 over two years. These courses offer in-depth academic specialisation, focusing on three or four subjects chosen by students based on their interests and future career aspirations. At KISS we encourage students to take four subjects, but they can drop one subject at the end of year 12 if they choose too. The rigorous curriculum develops analytical skills, subject mastery, and independent research capabilities, making A Levels an essential requirement for university admission in the UK and recognized worldwide by universities.
At KISS, we offer International A-Levels (IALs) through Pearson Edexcel, an esteemed awarding organisation. IALs maintain the high academic standards of traditional UK A-Levels but are tailored for international learners. They include flexible assessment schedules and a modular structure, enabling students to take examinations at various points during the academic year. This format supports diverse educational needs while preserving the credibility and academic rigour expected of A Levels, providing an accessible pathway for students aspiring for global university education.
When students are choosing their A-level subjects, they need to consider their academic strengths, and their future careers. For example, if a student wants to become a doctor, they should choose Chemistry, Biology, Maths and one other subject. Many universities have specific requirements for subjects for certain courses. For example, if a student wants to study Economics, their university would require A-levels in Maths, Economics and at least one other subject. If a student wants to study world literature, they should do A-level English Literature with other humanities subjects.
Subject choices will be discussed in depth with students before they decide, and they have a 2 week trial period at the beginning of September, where they can still swap subjects. If a student has been with us for IGCSE, and have failed a subject, they will not be permitted to take that subject at a-level, also if a student has transferred from another system and has failing grades in specific subjects, they will not be allowed to take these subjects at a-level.
Why choose A-levels over other systems?
A key benefit of A-Levels is that it does not prescribe which subjects must be studied (unlike the Slovenian Matura, Italian Matura or the International or European Baccalaureate, where specific subjects must be studied) and offers students the opportunity to specialise in a specific areas (such as the sciences or languages) or cover a broad range of subjects of their choosing. Students have the freedom to select the subjects that are right for them, with careful guidance from their teachers.
What else will be studied in the final 2 years
In addition to A-levels students have mandatory Physical Education (PE) lessons weekly for 2 periods, Slovene Language (either as native or second language for 2-3 lessons per week), and Italian Language if they are not doing it as an a-level for 2-3 lessons per week (either as native or second language).
Students also will have scheduled career advice, CV workshops, and university application sessions in their final year of school
What subjects can I choose from?
University Guidance
At KISS, we prioritise university guidance as an integral part of our educational mission in students' final two years of school, particularly for students seeking to apply overseas. Our expert teachers, who collectively have decades of experience, mentor students through the complex university application process for a variety of countries . This includes helping students identify universities that align with their professional goals and personal interests, assisting with application forms, personal statements and cover letters, and providing targeted preparation for interviews and entrance exams where applicable including for Oxford and Cambridge applications.
The importance of university guidance lies in empowering students to make informed choices that set the foundation for their academic and professional futures. In the context of international education, this means offering tailored support to understand admission requirements and processes that vary across countries, from the United States and the United Kingdom to universities in Europe, Asia, and beyond. Personalised guidance helps demystify this process, ensuring students are confident and well-prepared.
Our experienced teaching staff have supported thousands of students in securing admissions to top-tier universities and specialist institutes worldwide. Their extensive background not only provides students with strategic insight into how to present their academic achievements and extracurricular experiences but also fosters strong personal statements and references.