A Levels
The academic pathway. Study subjects you enjoy in more depth – most students take three.
Vocational qualifications
Learn in a practical way about a job area, with courses like BTECs and Cambridge Technicals.
T Levels
Two-year technical courses, equivalent to three A Levels, with a placement with an employer.
Apprenticeships
A real job with training. Earn a wage while you work towards qualifications.
Thinking of a degree later?
See how each pathway can lead on to university or higher-level study.
Not sure how to choose?
Ask yourself these three questions.
- 1
Where am I now?
Think about the subjects you enjoy, what you are good at and the GCSE grades you are likely to get.
- 2
Where do I want to get to?
Do you have a job, career or course in mind? It is fine if you don’t know yet.
- 3
How will I get there?
Look at each pathway and see which one fits you and the way you like to learn.
Top tips: if you are not sure yet, keep your options open with a broad mix of subjects. Talk it through with parents or carers, teachers and a careers adviser.