An aspiring engineer? If you’re planning to study engineering at university, whether chemical, mechanical or civil, make sure your A-level line-up ticks admissions tutors’ boxes...
By Nik Taylor (Editor, The Uni Guide) | 31 March 2025 | 3 minutes read
If you want to study engineering at university, then it’s crucial that you pick the right A-levels. Maths is a must-have subject whatever type of engineering you want to study; but there are certain other essentials or preferred subjects depending on the course you apply to.
What A-levels do I have to have to study engineering?
First and foremost, you must have maths, whatever area of engineering you want to study.
A science A-level is generally needed too. Some courses ask for chemistry and maths, some ask for physics and maths. Some will ask for all three.
At the end of the day, always check the entry requirements for your chosen uni course. Search for a course now to see what requirements universities are asking for.
What A-levels are useful to have if I want to study engineering?
Some unis also ask for further maths. Further maths is an AS or A-level which broadens and deepens the maths syllabus. It acts as an add-on to your maths qualification – you can’t take it unless you’re already taking maths.
Design technology might also be helpful, to help further your literacy in design.
Below are a range of Bachelor of Engineering courses offered by different universities and the A-level entry requirements they ask for for September 2024 entry (as of 26 April 2024).
Use this as a rough guide, but search for courses to see what specific universities look for.
UEA
A,B,B
"Including A in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches) and B in one of the following subjects: Further Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Design Technology, Electronics or Computing Science. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. General Studies and Critical Thinking not accepted."
Lancaster University
A,B,B
"A level Mathematics and a Physical Science, for example, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electronics, Design & Technology or Further Mathematics."
University of Aberdeen
B,B,B
"Three A Levels at BBB with a B in Mathematics and B in Physics; or a B in Design & Technology; or a B in Engineering. GCSE English at a Grade C also required."
What about if I want to do an engineering apprenticeship? What qualifications do I need then?
Apprenticeships are also a valid route into the engineering industry. A higher level apprenticeship will give you the opportunity to learn and be paid – your time will usually be split between being an employee and learning on the job, and going to uni or college to study. There aren’t specific entry requirements to these generally, but having maths or science A-levels will help.
A design engineer gives his tips…
Adam chose to take an engineering apprenticeship after school. He says:
The key is to learn where best to apply what you have learned. For example, when should I be using this form of stress calculation? Or when during the design phase should I organise a team meeting? I think that's a key skill that most people overlook.
