For students wishing to continue studying a language post GCSE there are a range of choices. The most popular qualification is GCE Advanced Subsidiary which is a one year course. Students may opt to continue to A2 level which takes a further year of study. These courses are offered in a range of languages by AQA, CCEA, WJEC, Edexcel and OCR.

A small number of schools and colleges offer an International Baccalaureate diploma programme. Study of a foreign language forms part of this diploma. 

There are also a range of alternative courses at Level 3. Find out more details about alternatives to AS and A2 in the alternative accreditation section. Most students begin Level 3 courses in Year 12, but some begin them earlier if they have followed a fast-track route.