Course Overview

Strengthen your problem-solving skills and explore the power of mathematical thinking with A level Mathematics online.

A level Mathematics is a rewarding subject that helps you make sense of the world through numbers, patterns, and logical thinking.

Whether you’re exploring algebra, solving real-world problems with statistics, or getting to grips with calculus and mechanics, this course builds skills that are useful in everyday life and essential for many exciting careers. You’ll develop confidence in problem-solving, clear reasoning, and data analysis—all at your own pace through flexible online learning.

A level Maths is a great choice if you’re thinking about studying science, engineering, economics, or computing at university, or just want to strengthen your analytical skills for the future.

  • 85%
pass rate in 2024

  • elearning icon

    Interactive course

  • 1:1 tutor support

A level Maths at a glance

course exam board icon
Exam board

Edexcel 9MA0

course hours icon
Hours

Learn at your own pace

Approx. 250-300 hours* plus time for completing assignments

course requirements icon
Requirements

Internet access

Computer operating system and browser to support learn@nec.

course assignments icon
Assignments

11 assignments (one introductory) – these do not contribute towards your final grade

course resources icon
Resources

All students have access to:

  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Pure Mathematics Year 1/AS (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781292183398
  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Statistics and Mechanics Year 1/AS (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781292232539
  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Pure Mathematics Year 2 (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781292183404
  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Statistics and Mechanics Year 2 (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781446944073 Via Pearson’s ActiveLearn platform.

 

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UCAS points

Earn up to 56 UCAS points

course entry requirements icon
Entry requirements

There are no academic requirements for this course.

Course materials are written in English so a good level of written English is required.

course format icon
Format

Online learning with 1:1 tutor support

course assessment icon
Assessment

Exams (three):

  • 33.3% of marks  (2 hours) (calculator)
  • 33.3% of marks  (2 hours) (calculator)
  • 33.3% of marks  (2 hours) (calculator)

There is no non-exam assessment (NEA) for this course

course exam board icon
Exam board

Edexcel 9MA0

course entry requirements icon
Entry requirements

There are no academic requirements for this course.

Course materials are written in English so a good level of written English is required.

course resources icon
Resources

All students have access to:

  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Pure Mathematics Year 1/AS (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781292183398
  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Statistics and Mechanics Year 1/AS (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781292232539
  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Pure Mathematics Year 2 (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781292183404
  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Statistics and Mechanics Year 2 (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781446944073 Via Pearson’s ActiveLearn platform.

 

course requirements icon
Requirements

Internet access

Computer operating system and browser to support learn@nec.

course assessment icon
Assessment

Exams (three):

  • 33.3% of marks  (2 hours) (calculator)
  • 33.3% of marks  (2 hours) (calculator)
  • 33.3% of marks  (2 hours) (calculator)

There is no non-exam assessment (NEA) for this course

course assignments icon
Assignments

11 assignments (one introductory) – these do not contribute towards your final grade

course hours icon
Hours

Learn at your own pace

Approx. 250-300 hours* plus time for completing assignments

course format icon
Format

Online learning with 1:1 tutor support

education icon
UCAS points

Earn up to 56 UCAS points

course exam board icon
Exam board

Edexcel 9MA0

course hours icon
Hours

Learn at your own pace

Approx. 250-300 hours* plus time for completing assignments

course requirements icon
Requirements

Internet access

Computer operating system and browser to support learn@nec.

course assignments icon
Assignments

11 assignments (one introductory) – these do not contribute towards your final grade

course resources icon
Resources

All students have access to:

  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Pure Mathematics Year 1/AS (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781292183398
  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Statistics and Mechanics Year 1/AS (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781292232539
  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Pure Mathematics Year 2 (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781292183404
  • Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics Statistics and Mechanics Year 2 (Pearson, 2017). ISBN: 9781446944073 Via Pearson’s ActiveLearn platform.

 

education icon
UCAS points

Earn up to 56 UCAS points

course entry requirements icon
Entry requirements

There are no academic requirements for this course.

Course materials are written in English so a good level of written English is required.

course format icon
Format

Online learning with 1:1 tutor support

course assessment icon
Assessment

Exams (three):

  • 33.3% of marks  (2 hours) (calculator)
  • 33.3% of marks  (2 hours) (calculator)
  • 33.3% of marks  (2 hours) (calculator)

There is no non-exam assessment (NEA) for this course

Why study A level Maths

Future opportunities

  • Studying mathematics or other relevant subjects at degree level.
  • A range of careers in fields such as architecture, accountancy, data analysis, financial management, financial trading, insurance, meteorology, nursing, operational research, quantity surveying, statistics, software development and education.
  • Government research suggests that individuals who have the best maths skills and achieve academic qualifications in this subject, generally go on to earn a higher wage.
Course content

What you’ll learn…

Section 1

Pure mathematics 1

  • Algebra 1
  • Indices and surds
  • Coordinate geometry
  • Quadratics
  • Graphs
  • Trigonometry 1
Section 2

Pure mathematics 2

  • Algebra 2
  • Circles
  • The binomial expansion
  • Differentiation 1
  • Exponentials and logarithms 1
Section 3

Pure mathematics 3

  • Trigonometry 2
  • Differentiation 2
  • Exponentials and logarithms 2
  • Integration
  • Vectors
Section 4

Statistics 1

  • Mathematical models in statistics
  • Measures of location and spread
  • Representing data
  • Probability
  • Hypothesis testing
SECTION 5

Mechanics 1

  • Mathematical models in mechanics
  • Kinematics of a particle moving in a straight line
  • Forces
  • Vectors in mechanics
  • Variable acceleration
SECTION 6

Pure Mathematics 4

  • Algebra 3
  • Functions and graphs
  • Trigonometry 3
  • Sequences and series
SECTION 7

Pure Mathematics 5

  • Trigonometry 4
  • Sequences and series 2
  • Differentiation 3
  • Integration 2
SECTION 8

Pure Mathematics 6

  • Numerical methods
  • Differentiation 4
  • Parameters
  • Integration 3
  • Differential equations
SECTION 9

Statistics 2

  • Correlation and regression
  • Probability
  • The normal distribution
  • Approximations and testing
SECTION 10

Mechanics 2

  • Moments
  • Equilibrium 2
  • Forces and motion
  • Projectiles
  • Further kinematics

    Affordable study

    Flexible payments and financial help

    • As an education charity dedicated to helping independent learners achieve life-changing qualifications we want to keep fees affordable. All of our course fees are clear and transparent to help you plan for any additional costs.
    • NEC’s fees for A levels offer some of the best value on the market, with multi-buy options, special offers, personal discounts, and affordable finance options.
    • Used responsibly, finance is a great way to spread the cost of your course. We’ve teamed up with Omni, one of the UK’s leading finance specialists.
    • Depending on your own circumstances, there are a number of possibilities for getting help to fund your course.

    Visit our Fee information page or

    Talk to an advisor
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    Monthly instalments

    Study now, pay your way

    It’s your choice: you can pay in full at the point of enrolment, or you can spread the cost over monthly instalments with our finance offer. We offer a choice of six or 12 month repayment plans, with 0% APR as standard.

    To pay in instalments you will need to enrol by telephone.

    The National Extension College (NEC) work with finance company OMNI. For more information on our relationship with OMNI and repayment plans see our Fee Information page.

    Course fee £730
    Deposit £73
    Amount of credit £657
    Monthly payment £54.75
    Duration 12 months
    Total repayment £730
    Cost of credit £0.00
    Rate of interest 0% APR representative

    Purchasing more than one A level? Use voucher code ALMB10 to receive 10% off at checkout.

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    With you every step of the way

    Enjoy 1-2-1 support from your course tutor

    You’ll have access to 1:1 support from your tutor. All NEC tutors are subject experts, with experience in supporting online learners.

    “I have taught maths for many years in a college of further education and more recently by distance learning. As a teacher the greatest reward for me is helping a student develop confidence and the same enjoyment in subject as me. My approach to teaching has always been to treat each student as an individual with unique needs, and I always try to give whatever support they require. I have a BSc in Maths from the Open University (so I know firsthand the pros and cons of distance learning) and a PGCE.”

    Allie, Maths Tutor
    MORE ABOUT OUR TUTORS
    Help when you need it

    Additional support for under 18s

    We understand younger students often need an extra helping hand with their studies. NEC’s unique Progress Tracker makes it easy for parents and guardians to follow their child’s progress, access assignment grades and view tutor feedback to ensure effective learning.

    Our approach to home study
    Need help choosing?

    Talk to one of our course advisors

    Still unsure whether online distance learning is right for you?

    Our friendly Course Advice Team are here to help answer your questions and take you through your options.

    • Book a call and someone will get back to you at a convenient time.
    • Or contact us today by phone or email.

    We’re waiting to help you get ahead and achieve your goals, your way.

    Talk to a course advisor

    Frequently asked questions

    Your common questions and concerns answered. Read more FAQs.

    NEC offers flexible, online GCSEs, A levels, and vocational courses that you can study anytime, anywhere. When you enrol, you’ll receive a welcome email with login details for learn@nec, our virtual learning platform.

    You’ll be supported by a qualified subject tutor who provides feedback on your assignments and helps guide your progress. Our expertly designed courses include engaging materials, interactive learning activities, and selected online resources — all created by experienced teachers, examiners, and learning designers.

    Our courses are designed to let you study at your own pace — all within a clearly defined enrolment period to help keep you on track. Many courses let you study your way, with flexible assignment deadlines to suit your schedule. Others may include set dates — especially for things like exams or NEAs (Non-Exam Assessment) — to help you stay on track.

    Yes! You can connect with other learners in your course’s online forum. Many students find discussing topics with peers helps reinforce their learning — and helps them feel part of a wider learning community.

    Yes. Most NEC courses, including all GCSEs and A levels, lead to qualifications awarded by major UK exam boards such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR and Cambridge International. You’ll earn exactly the same qualification as students in school or college.

    We’re also approved to offer CMI qualifications for management, as well as TQUK-accredited courses and Functional Skills qualifications in English and Maths. These nationally recognised qualifications are designed to help learners build practical skills and are ideal for both personal development and career progression.

    Some short courses, like those in the arts, are for personal development and enjoyment but don’t lead to formal accreditation.

    Yes, NEC is a JCQ-approved exam centre, which means we can support your exam entry, provide verified access arrangements, and oversee non-exam assessments (NEAs) — essential for subjects like English, Science and Geography.

    Yes. Many students complete a one-year fast track option, especially if working towards university or career deadlines. You’ll need to commit regular study time and plan carefully around assignment deadlines and exams.

    If you’re unsure whether fast track is realistic, we’ll advise you.

    Yes. You can enrol any time and begin studying when it suits you. However, if your course involves an exam, you’ll need to complete all assignments and assessments (also known as coursework or NEA — Non-Exam Assessment) in time for set exam dates — so don’t leave it too late!

    If you’re planning to apply to university, please also be aware of UCAS deadlines. For example, to receive predicted grades through our UCAS Application Service, you’ll need to have completed a certain number of assignments by specific dates.

    Check the individual course pages for guidance, or book a call with an advisor to discuss your timeline and study plans.

    Yes — NEC is ideal for international students. Many of our courses are available worldwide, but there are a few things to check before enrolling:

    Exams: You’ll need to arrange a local exam centre. AQA does not offer international exams, so you’ll need to travel to the UK for those.

    Qualification recognition: Ensure your chosen qualification is recognised in your country.

    Our team is happy to help you explore your options.

    People who study A level Maths also take…

    Purchasing more than one A level? Use voucher code ALMB10 to receive 10% off at checkout.