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A level choicesss

is french, law and politics a level a good combo?? im worried though as i feel as if it will be a lot of essays
I'd like to do international relations at uni after and become a diplomat!!
I have already completed my french gcse a year early, and i can already speak a good amount french ish (B2) ??
im not native or fluent tho!!

ANY ADVICE IS GREAT!!
THANK YOUUUU
(edited 2 months ago)

Reply 1

Original post
by linapm
is french, law and politics a level a good combo?? im worried though as i feel as if it will be a lot of essays
I'd like to do international relations at uni after and become a diplomat!!
I have already completed my french gcse a year early, and i can already speak a good amount french ish (B2) ??
im not native or fluent tho!!
ANY ADVICE IS GREAT!!
THANK YOUUUU
Yes French, Law and Politics is a really good A level combination, especially for someone interested in International Relations and becoming a diplomat. Unis actually like seeing a mix of a language plus essay-based subjects for IR.
It’s true that all three involve essay writing, but if you enjoy thinking, arguing your point, and writing clearly, you’ll be fine. Lots of students with similar combos manage very well.
Your French is also a big advantage B2 is already a strong level, and studying it at A-level will help you push towards fluency, which is very valuable in diplomacy.
Overall strong combination, very relevant to your goals, and definitely workable. Go for it!

Reply 2

Social science degrees like Politics, IR, Law, Social Policy etc usually have no required A level subjects - although some may ask for 'an essay based' subject. All they are interested in is the grades - so it makes sense to go for subjects that you will enjoy studying and where you feel confident of good grades.

Avoid picking any subjects because you think they 'look good' - Unis will always be very explicit about essential or preferred subjects on the course page, and there isnt any 'secret info' about this that is hidden from applicants. You do also have to give a thought to what other degree subjects you might consider if you had gone off the idea of IR by Year 13 - and would these A level subjects would still work.

Btw, although an IR degree could lead to a diplomatic career, so would many other degree subjects - see Diplomatic and Development scheme | Civil Service Careers

Reply 3

I was in a similar position four years ago. For IR, that combination is strong. I studied Politics, Economics, and Spanish, and all three helped me throughout my degree. Politics gives you a solid grounding, and Law is really useful because IR essays often involve discussing treaties, resolutions, and legal frameworks dependent on the module.

A language is a huge asset for both study abroad (if that's what you want to do) and future employment. If the diplomatic route is what you’re aiming for, the Fast Stream is competitive, so building experience through societies, volunteering, or work experience really helps. Ultimately, pick subjects you enjoy and are confident in, but academically it’s a great combination for IR.

Reply 4

Original post
by Kuriknowsbest98
Yes French, Law and Politics is a really good A level combination, especially for someone interested in International Relations and becoming a diplomat. Unis actually like seeing a mix of a language plus essay-based subjects for IR.
It’s true that all three involve essay writing, but if you enjoy thinking, arguing your point, and writing clearly, you’ll be fine. Lots of students with similar combos manage very well.
Your French is also a big advantage B2 is already a strong level, and studying it at A-level will help you push towards fluency, which is very valuable in diplomacy.
Overall strong combination, very relevant to your goals, and definitely workable. Go for it!
tysm!!! i really appreciate your reply 💗💗💗

Reply 5

Original post
by McGinger
Social science degrees like Politics, IR, Law, Social Policy etc usually have no required A level subjects - although some may ask for 'an essay based' subject. All they are interested in is the grades - so it makes sense to go for subjects that you will enjoy studying and where you feel confident of good grades.
Avoid picking any subjects because you think they 'look good' - Unis will always be very explicit about essential or preferred subjects on the course page, and there isnt any 'secret info' about this that is hidden from applicants. You do also have to give a thought to what other degree subjects you might consider if you had gone off the idea of IR by Year 13 - and would these A level subjects would still work.
Btw, although an IR degree could lead to a diplomatic career, so would many other degree subjects - see Diplomatic and Development scheme | Civil Service Careers

Tysm!!!!

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