Alternate Academic Qualifications (AAQs)
Understanding Alternate Academic Qualifications (AAQs)
So, you're in secondary school, and the time is flying by! Soon you'll be making some big decisions about what to study after your GCSEs. You've probably heard a lot about A-Levels, but did you know there are other exciting academic routes you can take, especially if you're aiming for university or higher education? Let's talk about Alternate Academic Qualifications (AAQs).
What Exactly ARE Alternate Academic Qualifications?
Think of AAQs as qualifications you can study after Year 11 (at Level 3, the same level as A-Levels) that are designed to help you get into university or other higher education courses. They are different from A-Levels but are still focused on academic learning and progression to degree courses.
The government and organisations like Ofqual (who regulate qualifications) have a specific definition for AAQs. They are not the same as T-Levels (which are more focused on leading you into a specific job with a large industry placement) or apprenticeships (where you work and learn at the same time). AAQs are primarily about continuing your academic journey, often in subjects you're really passionate about.
Who are they for? AAQs are typically for students aged 16-19 who are looking for academic qualifications that can lead to higher education. If you're in Year 10 or 11 and starting to explore your post-16 options, this is for you!
What Kinds of AAQs Are There?
AAQs come in a couple of main "sizes":
- Small AAQs: These are usually the size of one A-Level. You would typically study a small AAQ alongside one or two A-Levels, creating a mixed programme of study. This is great if you want to combine different subjects or types of learning.
- Large AAQs: These are bigger qualifications, equivalent to two or sometimes three A-Levels. If you choose a large AAQ, it might make up most or all of your study programme. This is ideal if you want to specialise more deeply in a particular subject area that you're keen to pursue at a higher level.
Examples of AAQs: One example you might come across is the Cambridge Advanced Nationals. These are offered in subjects like:
- Health and Social Care
- IT
- Engineering
- Sport and Exercise Science
- Business
- Creative and Performing Arts (from 2026)
Some BTEC qualifications can also function as AAQs, especially those that are more theory-based and designed to support progression to university. The key is that their main goal is to prepare you for higher academic study.
Why Might You Choose an AAQ?
AAQs can be a fantastic option for several reasons:
- Specialise in Your Interests: If you have a clear idea of what you enjoy and might want to study at university, an AAQ can let you dive deeper into that subject area than you might with A-Levels alone.
- Different Ways of Learning and Being Assessed: AAQs often involve a mix of learning styles. While some will have exams, many also include Non-Exam Assessment (NEA). This could be coursework, projects, practical assessments, or presentations. If you shine in these areas, AAQs could be a great fit.
- Develop In-Demand Skills: These qualifications are designed to help you build skills that universities and future employers value – like critical thinking, research, problem-solving, and communication.
- Flexible Study Programmes: The option to take "small" AAQs alongside A-Levels means you can tailor your studies to your strengths and interests, creating a unique and broad learning experience.
- Clear Routes to Higher Education: AAQs are specifically designed to support applications to university and other higher education courses. They carry UCAS points, just like A-Levels, which universities use to make offers.
AAQs vs. A-Levels, T-Levels, and Apprenticeships: What's the Difference?
It can seem like there are lots of options, so here's a quick guide:
- A-Levels: Traditional academic qualifications, usually exam-based, offered in a wide range of subjects. Often, students take three or four.
- AAQs: Academic qualifications also designed for progression to higher education, but can offer more focused study in a particular area and often include more varied assessment methods (like coursework and practicals). Can be taken alongside A-Levels or as a larger, standalone qualification.
- T-Levels: Focus on technical skills and knowledge for a specific career area. They include a significant industry placement (work experience). They can lead to university but are also designed for skilled employment or higher apprenticeships.
- Apprenticeships: You work for an employer, earn a wage, and train for a specific job, gaining qualifications as you go. These are primarily for direct entry into the workforce.
Where Can AAQs Take You?
The main goal of an AAQ is to help you get to university or college for higher education. Universities recognise AAQs, and they carry UCAS tariff points which contribute to your application.
While the primary focus is higher education, the skills and knowledge you gain from an AAQ can also be valuable to employers, especially if you have combined them with A-Levels or have developed strong specialist knowledge.
Want to Find Out More?
If AAQs sound like they could be a good option for you, here's what to do next:
- Talk to your Teachers: Your subject teachers and form tutor can offer advice.
- Visit Your School Careers Advisor: They will have information on all post-16 options and can help you explore what's right for you.
- Check Out Open Days/Evenings: When colleges and sixth forms have open days, go along and ask about the AAQs they offer.
- Look at Awarding Organisation Websites: Bodies like OCR, Pearson (who offer BTECs), and AQA will have detailed information on the specific AAQs they provide.
- Explore the UCAS Website: UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) has lots of information about qualifications and applying to higher education.
- Government Information: Websites like GOV.UK provide official information on qualifications.
Choosing your next steps is a big decision, but by exploring all the options, including AAQs, you can find the path that best suits your talents and ambitions!