Cambridge AS Level (Grade 11)

Programme Overview

• Cambridge AS Level is typically taken in Grade 11, and A Level in Grade 12. Together, they form a complete pre-university qualification.
• AS Level is the first half of the full A Level qualification.
• Duration: 1 academic year.
• Students typically take 4–5 subjects.
• Assessment held in May/June or Oct/Nov.
• Can be a standalone qualification or carried forward to complete full A Level.

Medical Stream Subjects (Recommended):

Non-Medical Stream Subjects (Recommended):

AS-Level Assessment Format:

• Written papers only (in most subjects)
• No coursework (except Global Perspectives or Art)
• Some science subjects may offer practical papers or an alternative to practical

AS-Level Sample Syllabus Coverage:

Exam Pattern (Assessment Structure)

• All exams for a subject are taken at the end of the course (Grade 11).
• Exams may consist of 2 or more papers depending on the subject.
• No internal school-based marks—everything is assessed externally by Cambridge.

Common Components:

Grading System (AS Level)

Cambridge AS Level uses the following grade scale:

• A is the highest grade at AS Level.
• A* is not awarded at AS Level (only at full A-Level).
• If students continue to A2 (Grade 12), the combined result (AS + A2) can yield an A* in the full A Level.

What is Considered a Pass?

• Grades A to E are considered passing grades.
• U (Ungraded) means the performance didn’t meet the minimum requirements.

Exam Sessions

• May/June and October/November every year.
• Results are typically released around August (for May/June) and January (for Oct/Nov).

Example: AS Level Physics (9702)

The exact structure and number of papers varies per subject.

Tips for Students in AS & A-Level:

• Begin with 4 subjects in AS, and carry forward 3 or 4 for A Level.
• Choose subjects aligned with career goals (e.g., medicine, engineering, research).
• Ensure you are aware of university-specific eligibility requirements for subject combinations.
• Refer to updated syllabuses each academic year (as topics or paper patterns may change).
• Use past papers and examiner reports to build exam familiarity and confidence.