International AS Levels are university-entry qualifications awarded by Pearson Edexcel or Cambridge International, typically studied at ages 16–17 in Year 12. They represent the first half of a full International A Level and are accepted by UK universities as standalone qualifications or as part of a broader profile. They are graded A–E and are confirmed by ENIC (formerly NARIC) as comparable to UK GCE AS Levels on a grade-for-grade basis.

For international students — those studying outside the UK domestic system — International AS Levels are the primary route to university entry in the UK and across the world.

How International AS Levels work

International AS Levels are studied over one to two years following the completion of International GCSE. Students typically study three subjects at AS Level, each assessed through external examinations set and marked by Pearson Edexcel or Cambridge International.

Pearson Edexcel International AS Levels:

• Available in 21 subjects

• Modular structure — units can be sat across multiple examination series

• Examination series: January, May/June, and October/November

• Graded A–E, where A is the highest passing grade

The relationship with International A Levels: An International AS Level covers the first half of a full International A Level. Students can complete the second half (A2 units) to achieve a full International A Level graded A*–E. Universities in the UK and worldwide accept either the AS standalone or the full A Level for undergraduate admission.

Are International AS Levels accepted by UK universities?

Yes. All UK universities — including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL, and LSE — accept Pearson Edexcel International AS Levels for admission. Oxford University states that Pearson Edexcel International qualifications are recognised as equivalent to UK GCE qualifications on a grade-for-grade basis.

For competitive degree courses, universities typically require a combination of IGCSE grades and AS/A Level results. The expected grades vary by institution and course — commonly AAB to A*AA at Russell Group universities for competitive subjects.

Subject choices at International AS Level

The subjects a student studies at AS Level should align with their intended university degree. Key considerations:

Choosing the wrong subjects at AS Level — or not choosing a required subject — is the most common and most preventable obstacle to university entry. Subject selection guidance from an academic advisor at the start of Year 12 is essential.

Frequently asked questions about International AS Levels

Are International AS Levels the same as UK A Levels? They are qualifications at equivalent academic levels, confirmed as comparable by ENIC on a grade-for-grade basis. UK universities treat them as equivalent for admissions purposes.

How many International AS Levels should a student take? Most students take three subjects. Some competitive courses expect four, but three strong AS Levels in relevant subjects are the standard for most university applications.

Can International AS Levels be studied online? Yes. See the dedicated article on studying AS Levels online.

What is the difference between AS Level and A Level? An AS Level covers the first half of an A Level (two units out of four). A full A Level includes both the AS units and the A2 units, graded A*–E. Universities accept both the AS as a standalone or the full A Level as a complete qualification.

Explore Teneo's AS Level programme, view results and accreditation, or contact the admissions team to discuss subject selection for your child's university goals.