Mathematics (AS/A Level 3)

Applications Open – 3PM Thursday 26th November 2026

Applications Close – August 2027

Entry Requirements – For Level 3 courses, students must have 5 or more Grade 4s at GCSE. No minimum entry for Level1/2 courses

How to Apply – Please apply via KentChoices

Mathematics at AS and A level requires students to study Pure Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics. The AQA specification for this subject will be studied at both AS and A-Level.

Students are required to extend their GCSE knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, sequences and coordinate geometry whilst acquiring new knowledge of differentiation and integration in the Pure Mathematics sections of the course.

Mechanics and Statistics are studied at both levels. In Mechanics, kinematics, applying forces, Newton’s Laws and moments are all mastered and applied to a variety of real life contexts. The Statistics section of the course includes sampling, data presentation and interpretation, probability and statistical distributions whilst also analysing large data sets. Students are required to use graphical calculators and be competent with spreadsheets. The AS and A2 courses further develop their skills in problem solving and proof.

Mathematics has always been a popular choice for students taking Science subjects. However, skills in numeracy and problem solving, together with the ability to think clearly and logically, are important attributes for everyone and the skills acquired in a Mathematics course are transferable to a wide variety of subjects. As a result, Mathematics is now considered equally suitable for Arts or Humanities students.

Examination requirement

AS

Paper 1 – Pure Mathematics and Mechanics (1hr 30mins)

Paper 2 – Pure Mathematics and Statistics (1hr 30mins)

A2

Paper 1 – Pure Mathematics (2 hours)

Paper 2 – Pure Mathematics and Mechanics (2 hours)

Paper 3 – Pure Mathematics and Statistics (2 hours)

5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including Mathematics

You could take this course with other advanced level courses to prepare for higher education in areas of Mathematics, related areas such as Engineering, Economics, Physics or more general higher education courses. With further training, you could go into a job related to Mathematics such as an Accountant, Engineer, Financial Adviser or Teacher. The course also helps you develop the skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers across lots of industries are looking for, especially in the economic and financial sectors.

Here are some many examples of future careers

Accountant, Journalist, Architect, Musician, Audio Software Engineer, Pilot, Charity Worker, Politician, Computer Games Designer, Programmer, Dentist, Researcher, Engineer, Solicitor, Insurer, Teacher, IT Manager, Weather Forecaster.