A Level Subjects Ranked: Which Are Hardest, Most Popular, and Best for University

When you hear A Level subjects ranked, the official list of qualifications taken by UK students aged 16-18 that determine university entry. Also known as Advanced Level qualifications, they’re not just exams—they’re the gatekeepers to top universities and future careers. Not all A Levels are created equal. Some are seen as harder, others as more respected, and a few are chosen by far more students than others. The rankings you see online aren’t just guesses—they’re based on real data from exam boards, university admissions stats, and what students actually struggle with or excel in.

Take Maths, a core subject often required for engineering, economics, and computer science degrees. It consistently ranks among the most challenging because it builds on complex abstract thinking. Meanwhile, Biology, a popular choice for students aiming for medicine or life sciences, is packed with facts but often easier to memorize than to truly understand. Then there’s Further Maths, an advanced version taken by top performers, often needed for Oxbridge STEM courses. It’s not for everyone, but for those who can handle it, it opens doors few other subjects can.

Girls in the UK, according to recent data, lean heavily toward subjects like Psychology, English Literature, and Biology—choices that reflect both interest and perceived manageability. Boys, on the other hand, are more likely to pick Physics, Maths, and Computer Science. But rankings aren’t about gender—they’re about fit. A subject that’s "hard" for one person might be their strength. What matters is how it lines up with your goals. Universities don’t just look at grades—they look at subject combinations. Want to study Law? Essay-based subjects like History or Politics matter more than Physics. Going into Engineering? You’ll need Maths and Physics, no exceptions.

The real question isn’t which A Level is the "best"—it’s which one works for you. Some students think picking the "easiest" subjects will boost their grades, but top universities notice when you avoid rigor. Others think they need to take the "hardest" subjects to impress, even if they hate them. Neither strategy works long-term. The smart move is to pick subjects you can sustain, enjoy, and that match your future path. That’s why you’ll find posts here breaking down real student experiences, university preferences, and what actually gets you into the course you want—not just the ones that look good on paper.

Below, you’ll find real advice from students and educators on which subjects are most popular, which ones universities actually prefer, how gender trends are shifting, and how to avoid common mistakes when choosing your A Level mix. No fluff. Just what you need to know before you decide.