Posted: 26/02/2025
Choosing what to study after GCSEs can be an impossible and sometimes overwhelming decision. With many options available from T Levels, A Levels, BTECs, apprenticeships, and more, how do you know which path is the right one for you?
In this post, we will focus on two pathways, T Levels vs A Levels, discuss their key differences, and offer guidance to help you decide which path is right for you.
What are T Levels?
T Level qualifications were introduced in 2020 are designed to give you practical skills and hands-on experience for a specific career. They’re created in collaboration with employers, meaning you’ll learn exactly the skills businesses need.
Aimed at 16-18-year-olds continuing their education, T Levels are Level 3 qualifications, equivalent to three full A Levels. The main difference? You’ll complete an industry placement of at least 315 hours (about 45 days). During this placement, students gain real-world experience by performing actual work tasks, learning job-specific skills, and taking on real responsibilities.
T Levels also provide a strong foundation for further education, including degree apprenticeships and university degrees. Over 150 universities and colleges across the UK accept T Levels as an entry qualification, making them a valuable pathway to both higher education and employment.
Look at what T Levels we provide.
What are A Levels?
A Levels are also level 3 qualifications that take two years to complete and are the traditional route for students to take after completing GCSEs. As opposed to T levels, you typically can choose three or four subjects that are more academically and theoretically focused.
These courses may include a mix of subjects such as English, maths, business, and graphic design for example. Whereas T Levels focus on enhancing skills and experience in one subject or vocation that leads students into that job, A Levels don’t specifically create a route into a specific industry or job.
A Levels are mainly assessed through a combination of exams and coursework, and the grades achieved are used to enter university.
Look at what A Levels we provide.
T Levels vs A Levels: A Snapshot
Prefer a quick snapshot of key differences between T Levels and A Levels? We’ve compiled the key information below in our handy table.
| Qualification | A Level | T Level |
| Type of qualification | Academic | Technical & vocational |
| Study approach | Mainly classroom based, theoretical learning | Mix of classroom learning (80%) and industry placement (20%) |
| Assessment | Mainly exams with some coursework in certain subjects | Exams, coursework, practical assessments, employer-based projects |
| Duration | 2 years | 2 years |
| Pathway | University preparation | Accepted by universities but mainly designed for direct employment or apprenticeships |
| Work experience | Not mandatory | Mandatory 45-day industry placement |
| Typical students | Those aiming for university or careers requiring academic study | Those preferring hands-on learning and direct career pathways |
T Levels vs A Levels: Which one is right for me?
Not sure whether to choose to study a T Level or A Levels? Let’s help break it down…
You may prefer to study a T Level if:
- You already know what career you’re interested in.
- You enjoy hands-on, practical learning.
- You want work experience before you finish your studies.
- You like the idea of going straight into work or an apprenticeship.
You may prefer to study A Levels if:
- You want to study a mix of different subjects.
- You’re unsure what job you want in the future.
- You prefer learning through books and exams.
- You’re planning to go to university after your studies.
Need help deciding?
T Levels and A Levels both offer valuable pathways for you after GCSEs, each catering to different learning styles and career aspirations – it just depends on what works best for you!
Unsure of which path or course would suit you best? We can help!
By filling out the form on our website, someone in our careers team will be in contact. You can also email us at careers@dncolleges.ac.uk or call us at 01302 553 553.
In some circumstances, we won’t offer the T Level or A Level you require, but we also provide various other options, such as apprenticeships and other technical qualifications. So, it’s best to chat with us to discuss your options and see what we can do to meet your career goals.