A-level options 2025

I need some advice!! So I tried out the subjects I chose for my sixth form. I picked history (modern), ancient history, and politics. However, I did not find ancient history enjoyable, and don’t think I’ll pursue it for a-levels. I have a few options of what I could switch it to, but would appreciate some advice!!
Context- obviously this isn’t a set decision, but currently, my goal is to study history at university, and am very happy to pursue a-level history and politics, as history is a very strong subject for me and is my favourite!
(these are in random order, not preferential)
1) Biology- this one I had been debating for a while. At gcse, this is not my strongest subject, my highest grade being a 6 (i do combined). I didn’t do well throughout secondary with the sciences because I had no passion or interest in it. However, in the past year, I have become very interested in it, but not sure if I should take it, considering I want to achieve high grades and attend a good university such as Oxbridge.
2) Psychology- I enjoyed this at the taster day, and found it interesting. I think I could do well, as I am a lot stronger in essay-based subjects. I have no experience in this subject though.
3) Geography- I really like geography, I do well in it, my highest grade being an 8; this is def one of my stronger subjects. However, I have less interest in it than others, but still enjoy it.
4) English literature- this is a complicated one. I did this gcse a year early in y10, gaining a grade 7. With this subject, I found it very stressful in year 10 as I didn’t understand the structure very well or how to revise it. I’m worried about considering this because I believe my stress and questioning of this subject is impaired by the fact that I had to sit the exam early, before I was ready. However, I find this really interesting and do enjoy this study of literature.

Hi @cargoesbroom
I hope you're well 🙂 It's great to see you're thinking deeply about what subjects to take up for A-Levels. One advice I would keep in mind is to go with your gut instinct but also remember that just because you may like a subject at GCSE and may be good at it, receiving top grades - it doesn't necessarily mean you will at A-Levels too.
Now, that's not to say you aren't bright or aren't capable of achieving amazing grades - of course you are, but A-Levels are completelyyyyy different. An example is at GCSE's I loved English Literature with my heart and soul, achieving an 8, therefore I assumed because I got such a grade I will definitely enjoy and be good at it in A-Levels.
However, as soon as I enrolled and sat in the sessions there was no enjoyment for me, therefore I changed. Everyone is different and you may genuinely enjoy the subjects in both A-Levels and GCSE's but do not worry or put too much pressure on yourself.
Worst case scenario it's always okay to change even after starting one subject, if you aren't happy after trying don't worry. But have a look at the topics that will be studied and see what may bring you more enjoyment and see what feels right!! Good luck deciding 🙂
~Zaynab
University of Bradford

Don't do two History A levels - total overkill.
Geography - a useful A level as most Unis will count it as a 'science related' subject for degree subjects like Psychology, and its also a social-science. It covers so many different topics, so its interesting, and useful - and you know that you enjoy this subject, so are far more likely to get a good grade.

thank you, i was kinda worried about taking both histories! would u say its the workload of both that would be too much or other reasons?

Too much subject overlap - some Unis wont be happy with this, and you will probably get very bored.