Registering for A-levels in 2026

6

Hey everyone,

I want to apply to some unis for undergrad studies with 2026 start.
However, I am a mature applicant and I don't have A-level from Physics which is one of the requirements. The admissions have told me I should sit the A-levels in May/June 2026.

Can you please explain to me how do I register? (since I am a private candidate studying by myself)
Also, is there only one sitting or more? I saw there are AS levels and A levels. So I am a bit confused since I am not originally from the UK.

Last but not least, what textbook would you recommend to study? (or any other resources) I have this big purple book published by CGP called A-level Physics (exam board AQA) and there is a picture of a shattered light bulb on the front page. Is that the right one (most up to date)?
I am asking because I had a look at the official AQA website and there are some topics missing which are actually in the book. So not sure what everything to go over.

Thanks a lot!

Reply 1

McGinger

20

As a mature student, a one-year Access to HE would be far more appropriate that trying to cobble-together one-year STEM A levels at this late stage - see Access to Higher Education - courses are available at local college - example Level 3 Access to Higher Education (Physical Science) | Coventry College

Reply 2

JonVega

OP

6

Original post

by McGinger

As a mature student, a one-year Access to HE would be far more appropriate that trying to cobble-together one-year STEM A levels at this late stage - see Access to Higher Education - courses are available at local college - example Level 3 Access to Higher Education (Physical Science) | Coventry College

Thank you, the uni I want to apply for doesn't accept Access to HE and they specifically told me to sit A-levels. I studied the material before so it's not brand new to me.
Do you know how does it work in terms of sitting the A-levels?

Reply 3

McGinger

20

Original post

by JonVega

Thank you, the uni I want to apply for doesn't accept Access to HE and they specifically told me to sit A-levels. I studied the material before so it's not brand new to me.
Do you know how does it work in terms of sitting the A-levels?

Which Uni is this?

And there are also Unis that have their own Foundation courses specifically for mature students - two examples :
Degrees with a foundation year | Education | The University of Sheffield
CertHE Foundation Years | Study at Bristol | University of Bristol

Registering for A-levels in 2026

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