Academics
Cambridge A Levels
What are Cambridge A Levels?
Cambridge International A Levels* are a globally recognised pre-university qualification, typically taken over two years (AS Level in the first year, A2 in the second). Students choose a focused set of subjects usually four to five, allowing for deep specialisation in the areas most relevant to their intended field of study.
A Levels are known for:
- Subject depth. Students Dive deeper into their area of expertise.
- Flexible subject combinations. From sciences and mathematics to humanities, business, and the arts, students can build a combination suited to their goals.
- A grading system trusted worldwide. The A*- E grading scale is well understood by admissions officers globally, with decades of international credibility behind it.
- A clear, structured assessment model. Predominantly exam-based, with a defined syllabus that gives students and parents clarity on what’s expected at every stage.
What are Cambridge A Levels
A Levels at CNS: what to expect
- Entry point: Grade 11, following completion of Grade 10 / IGCSE
- Campus: Mumbai and Pune
- Faculty: Taught by CNS educators trained and experienced in the Cambridge curriculum
- Support systems: The same academic mentorship, counselling, and wellbeing support extended to our IBDP cohort
A Levels
IBDP or A Levels – how families can decide
We know this is a big decision, and there’s no universal right answer. Both are excellent choices at CNS, the choice of pathway depends on child’s learning style, strengths, and future aspirations.
Global recognition, real outcomes
Cambridge International A Levels are among the world’s most respected pre-university qualifications, recognized by leading universities across India, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, Singapore, the UAE, and beyond. Valued for their academic rigor and subject depth, A Levels provide students with a strong foundation for admission to competitive undergraduate programmes across a wide range of disciplines. Whether students aspire to study in India or pursue higher education internationally, A Levels open doors to world-class university opportunities.
Admissions and enquiries
A Levels will be introduced at CNS starting 2027-28. Applications for Grade 11 entry are now open.
To learn more:
- Schedule a campus visit
- Speak with our academic counselling team
FAQs About Cambridge A Levels
What are Cambridge A Levels?
Cambridge International A Levels are a two-year, pre-university qualification for students aged 16–19, developed by Cambridge Assessment International Education. Students typically study 4-5 subjects in depth, assessed through globally standardised examinations.
How many subjects do students take at A Level?
Most students take 4-5 subjects at A Level, chosen based on their academic strengths and intended university course, allowing for genuine depth in each subject rather than broad coverage across many.
Is Cambridge A Level recognised in India?
Yes. Cambridge International A Levels are recognised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) as equivalent to Class 12 of CBSE, ICSE, or state boards, and are accepted for undergraduate admission by universities across India.
What is the difference between AS Level and A Level?
AS Level (Advanced Subsidiary) is the first year of study and can be taken as a standalone qualification. A Level (Advanced) builds on AS content with more advanced topics in the second year; combined AS and A2 performance forms the final A Level grade.
What is the A Level grading system?
A Levels are graded on a scale from A* (highest) to E, based on globally standardised assessment criteria set by Cambridge International, allowing universities to compare student performance consistently across countries and schools.
Can students join A Levels after CBSE, ICSE, or MYP?
Yes. Students who have completed Grade 10 from CBSE, ICSE, MYP, or any other recognised board are eligible to apply for Cambridge A Levels, regardless of which board they studied under previously.
Are Cambridge A Levels accepted by universities abroad?
Yes. Cambridge International A Levels are recognised by universities and employers in over 160 countries, including strong standing among admissions teams in the UK, US, Canada, and Australia.
What subjects can students choose for A Levels?
Cambridge offers over 55 subjects globally, spanning sciences, mathematics, business and economics, humanities, languages, and computing. CNS’s specific subject offering is confirmed at the time of subject selection counselling.