A-level Economics is a two-year Advanced Level qualification that explores how individuals, businesses, governments and global markets make decisions about scarce resources. Assessed entirely through written examinations at the end of the course (no coursework), it is available through AQA, Edexcel (Pearson) and OCR, and is widely accepted by UK universities as a strong academic qualification for degrees in economics, finance, business, law, politics and the social sciences.
What do you actually study in A-level Economics?
A-level Economics is split into two broad pillars that run throughout the course.
Microeconomics
Microeconomics examines decision-making at the level of individuals, households and firms. Core topics typically include supply and demand (how prices are determined in markets), market structures (perfect competition, monopoly, oligopoly and monopolistic competition), market failure (externalities, public goods, information asymmetry and government intervention), labour markets (wage determination, trade unions and monopsony), and business objectives and behaviour (profit maximisation, revenue maximisation and behavioural economics).
Macroeconomics
Macroeconomics looks at the economy as a whole. Core topics typically include national income and economic growth (GDP, the circular flow of income), inflation and deflation (causes, consequences and the Consumer Prices Index), unemployment (types, causes and policy responses), fiscal and monetary policy (government spending, taxation, interest rates and the role of the Bank of England), international trade and globalisation (balance of payments, exchange rates and trade policy), and developing economies (poverty, inequality and strategies for economic development).
The precise topics, depth of coverage and assessment structure vary between AQA, Edexcel and OCR. Always check the current specification for the board through which you are studying.
How is A-level Economics assessed?
A-level Economics is assessed entirely through written examinations; there is no coursework or controlled assessment component across the main awarding bodies. All exams are sat at the end of the two-year course (linear assessment).
AQA A-level Economics
- Paper 1: Markets and Market Failure (2 hours, 80 marks)
- Paper 2: National and International Economy (2 hours, 80 marks)
- Paper 3: Economic Principles and Issues (2 hours, 80 marks)
- Each paper is worth 33.3% of the total A-level
Edexcel (Pearson) A-level Economics A
- Paper 1: Markets and Business Behaviour (2 hours, 100 marks)
- Paper 2: The National and Global Economy (2 hours, 100 marks)
- Paper 3: Microeconomics and Macroeconomics (2 hours, 100 marks)
- Each paper is worth 33.3% of the total A-level
OCR A-level Economics
- Component 1: Microeconomics (2 hours, 80 marks)
- Component 2: Macroeconomics (2 hours, 80 marks)
- Component 3: Themes in Economics (2 hours, 80 marks)
- Each component is worth 33.3% of the total A-level
All papers include a mix of multiple-choice questions, data-response questions and extended essay-style answers. Strong performance in essay writing and quantitative data analysis is essential.
What grades can you achieve, and how are they awarded?
A-level Economics is graded on the standard UK A-level scale: A*, A, B, C, D and E, with U (ungraded) for those who do not meet the minimum threshold. The A* grade is awarded to candidates who achieve an A overall and also demonstrate exceptional performance in the final examination papers (the precise A* calculation varies slightly by board; check the current specification).
There is no separate AS-level requirement for the full A-level; however, some students choose to sit an AS-level Economics qualification as a standalone award after one year of study. AS-level Economics carries UCAS tariff points on the standard AS scale (up to 20 at grade A).
How many UCAS points is A-level Economics worth?
A-level Economics carries the following standard UCAS tariff points: A* = 56, A = 48, B = 40, C = 32, D = 24, E = 16. These are the standard UCAS tariff points for a full A-level as of the current tariff tables. Always verify with UCAS directly for the most up-to-date figures.
What can you do with an A-level in Economics?
A-level Economics is one of the most versatile qualifications available at Advanced Level. It is well regarded by universities and employers alike.
University progression
Economics A-level is typically required or strongly preferred for BSc / BA Economics (most Russell Group universities specify it), BSc Accounting and Finance, BSc Business and Management, BA Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE), LLB Law (advantageous, not always required), and BSc Mathematics and Economics. Top universities including the London School of Economics (LSE), the University of Manchester, the University of Warwick and University College London (UCL) regularly list Economics A-level as a preferred or required subject for their economics programmes.
Career pathways
Students who go on to study economics or related subjects at degree level commonly pursue careers in investment banking and financial services, actuarial science, civil service and public policy, consultancy and management, journalism and economic commentary, and teaching and academia.
Is Economics a facilitating subject?
The Russell Group's Informed Choices guidance has historically highlighted certain subjects as facilitating subjects, those that keep the widest range of degree options open. Economics is not on the traditional facilitating subjects list (which includes Mathematics, English Literature, Sciences, Languages and History), but it is widely regarded as a rigorous, academically respected subject that complements facilitating subjects well. Pairing Economics with Mathematics is particularly advantageous for competitive university applications.
Do you need Maths for A-level Economics?
You do not need A-level Mathematics to study A-level Economics, but a solid foundation in GCSE Mathematics (typically grade 6 or above) is strongly recommended. Economics at A-level involves interpreting graphs, diagrams and data tables, calculating percentage changes, price elasticities and multipliers, and understanding index numbers and basic statistical concepts.
Some universities, particularly those offering highly quantitative economics degrees, may require or prefer A-level Mathematics alongside Economics. If you are aiming for a top-ranked economics degree, studying both subjects is advisable.
How long does it take to complete A-level Economics?
A standard A-level Economics course takes approximately two years of full-time study (equivalent to Years 12 and 13 in a traditional school or sixth-form setting). At Lift College, the course is designed for flexible online study, meaning you can work through the material at a pace that suits your circumstances, whether you are studying alongside work, resitting after a previous attempt, or home-educating.
Most learners complete the course in 9 to 18 months studying at their own pace with Lift College, subject to exam series availability.
Can you study A-level Economics online?
Yes. A-level Economics is well suited to online study. The subject is assessed entirely through written examinations (no practical components), which means the full course content, including lessons, reading, essay practice and past-paper work, can be delivered and supported remotely.
At Lift College, A-level Economics is available as a fully online course. Tutor support, structured lesson materials and exam preparation resources are all provided digitally.
Where do you sit the exams?
A-level examinations must be sat in person at an approved examination centre. Lift College students are responsible for registering as a private candidate at an approved centre in their area. Lift College can advise on finding a suitable exam centre near you when you enrol.
Exam series typically take place in May and June each year.
What are the entry requirements for A-level Economics?
There are no nationally mandated entry requirements for A-level Economics, but most traditional providers recommend 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English Language and Mathematics; a grade 5 or above in GCSE Mathematics is strongly advisable given the quantitative content. No prior study of Economics at GCSE is required; the A-level course starts from foundational principles.
At Lift College, there are no formal academic entry requirements. You will need a reasonable level of prior study (typically to GCSE standard in English and Maths) to access the course materials and benefit from tutor feedback.
A-level Economics at a glance
Subject: Economics. Qualification: A-level (Advanced Level). Awarding bodies at Lift College: AQA, Edexcel (Pearson) and OCR. Typical study duration: approximately 2 years (flexible online study available). Assessment method: 100% written examinations (3 papers); no coursework. Grading scale: A* to E (U = ungraded). UCAS tariff (A*): 56 points. UCAS tariff (A): 48 points. Exam sitting: in person at an approved examination centre. Typical exam series: May and June annually. Recommended prior knowledge: GCSE Maths grade 5+; GCSE English grade 4+. Common progression routes: Economics, Finance, Business, PPE, Law degrees; financial services and public policy careers.
For current course fees, see our A-level courses page.
Frequently asked questions
Is A-level Economics hard?
A-level Economics is considered a moderately challenging subject. It requires strong analytical and essay-writing skills, comfort with data interpretation and the ability to apply theoretical models to real-world scenarios. Students who enjoy current affairs, mathematics and structured argument typically find it engaging rather than overwhelming. It is not regarded as one of the most mathematically demanding A-levels (that distinction usually goes to Further Mathematics or Physics), but it is academically rigorous and requires consistent effort.
Do I need to have studied Economics at GCSE?
No. GCSE Economics is not a prerequisite for A-level Economics. The A-level course is designed to introduce economic concepts from the ground up. A good grade in GCSE Mathematics and a genuine interest in how economies and markets work are far more important starting points.
Which exam board is best for A-level Economics: AQA, Edexcel or OCR?
There is no objectively best board; each has a slightly different specification structure and assessment style. AQA is known for its clear, well-structured papers; Edexcel (Economics A) is popular for its thematic approach; OCR offers a slightly different balance of micro and macro content. The right board for you depends on your learning style and the course your provider delivers.
Can I resit A-level Economics?
Yes. If you have previously sat A-level Economics and wish to improve your grade, you can resit the examinations as a private candidate. Lift College offers courses suitable for resit students, providing structured support to help you work towards a stronger result.
How much does it cost to study A-level Economics online?
Course fees vary. For current pricing, see our A-level courses page. Examination fees are paid separately to the exam centre and are not usually included in the course fee.
Will A-level Economics get me into a top university?
A-level Economics is well regarded by UK universities, including Russell Group institutions. However, no single A-level qualification guarantees a university place. Entry to competitive economics programmes typically requires high grades (often A*AA or AAA), strong personal statements and, in some cases, admissions tests such as the TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment) or TMUA (Test of Mathematics for University Admission). Lift College does not guarantee any specific grade or university place; our courses help you work towards your target grade with structured support and tutor feedback.
Is A-level Economics recognised for university entry outside the UK?
UK A-levels are internationally recognised qualifications. Many universities in the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe and beyond accept UK A-levels as evidence of academic ability. The specific requirements vary by institution and country; always check directly with the university you are applying to.
How does online A-level Economics work at Lift College?
At Lift College, A-level Economics is delivered entirely online. You receive access to structured course materials, written lessons, exam-technique guidance and tutor support. You study at your own pace within the course framework and sit your final examinations at an approved examination centre near you.
Whether you are studying for the first time, resitting to improve a previous grade, or returning to education as an adult learner, A-level Economics is a powerful qualification. Explore A-level Economics at Lift College or contact our team.