What A Levels Do You Need for Architecture? 2027 Guide

Which A Levels do you need for architecture?

Architecture sits between the sciences and the arts, and admissions requirements reflect that. Unlike engineering, where Maths is essential almost everywhere, architecture courses usually describe subjects as preferred rather than required. The pattern across UK universities is consistent:

The safe combination for the widest choice of courses is Maths (or Physics) plus Art and Design plus one essay subject. That mix satisfies the courses that insist on a numerate subject, the courses that insist on a creative one, and the courses that simply want evidence you can write.

Do you need Maths A Level for architecture?

Not everywhere, but it keeps the most doors open. The University of Bath states that A Level Mathematics or Physics is essential for its Architecture BSc, with Art and Design or Design and Technology strongly preferred. The Glasgow School of Art requires Maths or Physics at A Level for its BA (Hons) Architecture. UCL's Bartlett sets no compulsory subjects for its Architecture BSc but asks for at least two A Levels from its preferred list and a portfolio. Cambridge sets no mandatory subject either, but recommends Maths, Art and Design and Physics, and says almost all of its admitted architecture students had studied at least one of them.

If you have a place in mind, check its course page on UCAS before you commit. If you want to keep every option open, take Maths. Adults can study A Level Maths online with Lift College over one or two years and sit the AQA exams at a registered centre.

Do you need Art A Level for architecture?

Formally, almost never. Practically, it helps a great deal, because every architecture degree asks for a portfolio and Art and Design A Level produces one as you go. If you did not take Art, you are not blocked: universities accept portfolios built outside a qualification, through sketchbooks, drawing, model making, photography and personal projects.

So the honest answer is: an A Level in Maths or Physics is the academic signal that is hardest to replace, and the creative signal can come from a portfolio you build yourself.

What grades do architecture degrees ask for?

Grades vary far more than subjects do. Architecture is one of the most oversubscribed degree subjects in the UK, so the most selective courses ask for high grades and still turn away applicants who meet them.

Grades convert to UCAS points as follows: A* = 56, A = 48, B = 40, C = 32, D = 24, E = 16. Work out your own total in our UCAS points guide.

How long does it take to become an architect?

Longer than most careers that start with a degree. In the UK the route to the protected title of architect, overseen by the Architects Registration Board, runs through three stages: a three year undergraduate degree (Part 1), a two year postgraduate degree (Part 2) and a final professional practice qualification after at least two years in practice (Part 3). Seven years is the usual total. That is why admissions tutors look for commitment and a genuine interest in buildings at interview, not just grades.

Which course should you take? A decision block for adults

Lift College does not offer A Level Art and Design, and we would rather say so than pretend otherwise. What we do offer is the academic half of a strong architecture application: AQA A Level Maths (7357) and AQA A Level Physics (7408), taught online with a named UK tutor, each with its own monthly subscription. Nothing is charged until day 8 of your free trial, and you can study both subjects at the same time.

How to study architecture A Levels online as an adult

1. Pick your subjects. Maths first; Physics if you want the strongest possible numerate profile or a course that asks for either.
2. Enrol online with Lift College. There are no formal entry qualifications, and nothing is charged until day 8 of your free trial.
3. Plan your exam sitting. You sit the AQA exams as a private candidate in the May and June series, and on +Exams we book your seat at a Tutors & Exams centre; one year is realistic for a focused adult learner, two years is comfortable.
4. Build the portfolio alongside. Ten to twenty pages of drawings, models and photographs of your own work, with notes on your thinking, is what most courses ask to see.
5. Apply through UCAS. Mature applicants are welcomed, and our university progression guide explains how adult applications are assessed.

For more on choosing a strong trio of subjects, read our guide to the best A Level combinations.