Taking Further Maths A Level without Maths

I'm a mature student taking Further Maths A-Level privately. I already have a Maths A-Level from 10+ years ago, and I went on to do a Maths degree. I've been reading that you can't do Further Maths without also doing Maths, but do they just say this as it would be a case of not understanding the content as it builds on Maths? I'm assuming I will be ok as I have an A-Level already (albeit an old one) and a degree in the subject. Does anyone know if it is actually not allowed, or just highly discouraged? Thanks!

(For context, I'm applying to Vet Med and one of the unis says I need 3 "current" A-Levels, so along with Bio & Chem I figured I would pick one that I should, in theory, find easy)

Reply 1

AaronLikesMaths

Original post by haylekins

I'm a mature student taking Further Maths A-Level privately. I already have a Maths A-Level from 10+ years ago, and I went on to do a Maths degree. I've been reading that you can't do Further Maths without also doing Maths, but do they just say this as it would be a case of not understanding the content as it builds on Maths? I'm assuming I will be ok as I have an A-Level already (albeit an old one) and a degree in the subject. Does anyone know if it is actually not allowed, or just highly discouraged? Thanks!
(For context, I'm applying to Vet Med and one of the unis says I need 3 "current" A-Levels, so along with Bio & Chem I figured I would pick one that I should, in theory, find easy)

A Level Maths subject content is prerequisite and assumed knowledge for A Level Further Maths. I believe you can enter yourself in for A Level Further Maths exams without entering A Level Maths.

In 2017 there was a reform that changed the subject content and assessment of A Level Maths and Further Maths. The two qualifications were decoupled and made linear (used to be modular).

There are now less exams but they are more demanding, there is a heavier emphasis on problem solving, reasoning and using of technology; the Statistics component of A Level Maths now is very different from the old S1 module that you probably did.

You should check with the university you're applying to if they specifically state A Level Maths in their requirements, because they may require that you've done the current linear course and earned all the qualifications in the same year.