85
%Pass rate across all A levels in 2024
21
A level and International A level subjects to choose from
No matter if you’re progressing from GCSEs, returning to education, or changing direction, A levels can help you take the next step towards your goals—on your own terms.
Whether:
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you’re a young person studying independently or being home educated
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you’re currently taking A levels at school or college and want to add another subject
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you’re returning to learning later in life to gain qualifications you missed out on
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you’re exploring new subjects to support a career change
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or you simply have a passion for a topic and want to study it in more depth
You can study A levels online at any age with NEC.
Our online A level courses are written by experienced teachers and examiners and are accredited by respected awarding bodies including AQA, Pearson Edexcel, and OCR. These courses are equivalent to those studied in schools and colleges, and they’re recognised by universities and employers in the UK and beyond.
When you study A levels with NEC, you’ll be supported by a qualified subject-specialist tutor, and have the flexibility to learn in a way that suits your schedule.
Since 1963, thousands of students have transformed their futures through A level study with NEC. Whether you’re aiming for university, building skills for your career, or pursuing a personal ambition, we’re here to help you succeed—with expert support, flexible learning, and a track record you can trust.
Why study an A level
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A levels show advanced knowledge and understanding in a subject.
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They are widely recognised by universities, employers, and training providers.
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A levels are essential for applying to most university and higher education courses.
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They help develop critical thinking, independent study, and analytical skills.
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A levels can support career progression or a change in direction.
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They are accepted both in the UK and internationally as high-level qualifications.
YOUR CHOICE
A level and International A level Courses
Want to study more than one subject? We offer a 10% multi-buy offer when you enrol on two or more courses together.
A level Biology
Explore the science of life with our flexible online A level Biology course—designed for independent learners aiming for university, science careers, or personal enrichment.
A level Business
Explore the science of life with our flexible online A level Biology course—designed for independent learners aiming for university, science careers, or personal enrichment.
A level Chemistry
Explore the foundations of matter and energy with our flexible online A level Chemistry course—ideal for independent learners pursuing university, science-based careers, or a deeper understanding of the chemical world.
A level Classical Civilisation
Explore the ancient worlds of Greece and Rome with our flexible online A level Classical Civilisation course—ideal for independent learners preparing for university, careers in the humanities, or a deeper understanding of classical culture.
A level Economics
Uncover the principles that drive markets, shape societies, and influence global decision-making with A level Economics online.
A level English Language
Understand how language shapes thought, identity, and society with our A level English Language course.
A level English Literature
Explore timeless stories, powerful voices, and the art of interpretation with our A level English Literature course.
A level French
Discover how language connects people, cultures, and ideas across borders with our A level French course.
A level Further Maths
Explore advanced mathematical concepts and sharpen your analytical edge with A level Further Mathematics online.
A level Geography
Understand the forces shaping our landscapes, societies, and global connections with A level Geography online.
A level History
Examine the turning points, ideologies, and individuals that have shaped civilisation with our A level History course.
A level History of Art
Explore how art captures history, expresses identity, and challenges ideas through our A level History of Art course.
A level Law
Understand the foundations of justice, legal reasoning, and rights in society with our A level Law course.
A level Maths
Build a strong foundation in logic, reasoning, and problem-solving with our A level Mathematics course.
A level Philosophy
Explore life’s biggest questions and learn how to think clearly, critically, and creatively with our A level Philosophy course.
A level Physics
Unlock the mysteries of matter, motion, and the universe with our flexible online A level Physics course.
A level Politics
Explore how power works and why political decisions shape every part of our lives with our online A level Politics course.
A level Psychology
Explore the science behind thoughts, feelings, and behaviour with our flexible online A level Psychology course.
A level Religious Studies
Understand how religion, philosophy, and ethics shape the way people think, live, and relate to the world with A level Religious Studies online.
A level Sociology
Understand how culture, class, gender, and power shape the world around us with our A level Sociology course.
A level Spanish
Gain confidence in communication and explore the rich diversity of the Spanish-speaking world with our A level Spanish course.
International A level Biology
Understand the systems of life from cells to ecosystems with our flexible online International A level Biology course—designed for students worldwide.
International A level Chemistry
Gain a deeper understanding of the reactions and elements that shape our world with our online International A level Chemistry course—designed for students around the globe.
International A level Maths
Unlock your analytical potential with our flexible online International A level Mathematics course—perfect for international students aiming for university or STEM careers.
International A level Physics
Discover how the universe works with our flexible International A level Physics course—designed for global learners with aspirations in science, technology, or engineering.
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.
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.
Experience you can trust
With a legacy spanning more than half a century, NEC has honed its craft in delivering exceptional online and distance learning experiences. Our extensive experience has equipped us with insights into the diverse needs of learners of all ages, allowing us to refine our approach to provide top-notch education that adapts to your individual pace and preferences.
How it works
Discover more about studying with NEC.
Support for Students
Helping students of all ages and backgrounds to achieve their goals, their way.
At NEC, we believe that everybody deserves a chance to achieve their learning goals, no matter their circumstances.
There are many forms of support we can offer our students.
Exams & Assessment
Many of our online distance learning courses require exams to achieve your qualification.
Whilst our courses are flexible in terms of your study schedule, exam dates are set by the awarding organisation.
As an approved centre, we facilitate both exams and non-exam assessments.
Fee Information
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 play for any additional costs.
Depending on your own circumstances, there are a number of possibilities for getting help with paying for your course.
WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY
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.
We teach you the core practicals that you need to be familiar with for your exam. This varies by course, but each core practical typically includes a method, list of equipment and some sample results. You can have a go at some of these practicals safely at home – we will let you know when this is the case. If the experiment is not safe to complete at home, or if you don’t want to complete the experiment yourself, our detailed description of the investigation will give you the information you need. Where appropriate, we also link videos demonstrating the experiment.
Your assignments include speaking opportunities at set points in the course, which give you the chance to practice your oral skills with your tutor. These live discussions are completed through an online meeting space (BigBlueButton) that you access through your course.
The course materials also provide guidance on speaking. For example, the ebook included with the course contains audio files to support the listening and speaking elements of the exam.
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.