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Questions about independent a-level study

Hello, I'm 20 and looking to study in Germany in the next couple years. I've previously done a levels but to do the course I want, I need to have chemistry and physics A levels.
I know some universities allow the practical endorsement to be waivered if someone is studying independently, but as I will be studying abroad I wonder if that's still possible? I'd also like to know when should I register with exam centres as a private candidate. I'm looking to take the a level exams in 2026
if anyone has any information I'd be very grateful to hear it! :smile:

Reply 1

National Extension College

Hello,

My name is Laura and I am a Course Advisor at the National Extension College.

If you are looking to study and sit the exams internationally, you can still study A Level Physics and Chemistry and the exam centre that you book with should give you the option to complete a Practical Endorsement Opt Out Form so you just take the written exams. I believe International exam centres are unable to offer the Practicals so if you did choose to take it you would need to do these here in the UK.

There is also the International A Levels available which are modular and do not have practicals included. There are 6 papers to sit for each subject and they are modular, so you can take the exams over different exam sessions. Exams for International A Levels are available in the Summer, October and January of each year.

We would advise checking with the course provider of the course you wish to go on to study to see if they would accept International A Levels or if they only accept A Levels, but we have a number of students studying both routes.

In regards to booking exam centres as a private candidate, we would advise contacting your preferred exam centre 6-9 months before the exam series starts. You can find a list of available international exam centres on the Pearson International Exam Centre search tool. Alternatively, if you are planning to sit exams in the UK when you are ready, we do have a number of partnership exam centres around the UK and could assist you in getting these booked.

I hope this information helps! If we can help with any other questions please email us on [email protected] and we would be happy to answer anything else 🙂

Kind regards,
Laura
Course Advisor at The National Extension College