27 Jan 2026 ● Emma Taylor, Pass A Level
What A Levels Do You Need To Be a Nurse?
We’ve teamed up with expert educational partners, Pass A Level, to explain how to set about your A Level decisions and planning if you are looking to be a nurse.
Many of those who plan to enter the healthcare sector for work ask themselves the question: what A levels do you need to be a nurse? This article will cover everything you need to know about taking your A levels to enter the field of nursing, which is why it is being published on Nurses.co.uk. You can also find out more routes into Nursing through the NHS site.
What A Levels Do You Need To Be a Nurse?
Typically, universities will require 2 to 3 A levels for applicants to study nursing. Science-based subjects are a practical option if you are aiming to become a nurse. Biology A Level in particular is sought-after, and studies in psychology, sociology, and chemistry are also sensible choices. Each university nursing course will have its own specific requirements so it is important that you check with the relevant admissions team that your qualification will be accepted.
When asking yourself what A levels do I need to become a nurse, it is also important to note that a lot of universities also require GCSEs at grades 4/C in English Language, Maths, and sometimes Science. If you are struggling to achieve your GCSEs as a private candidate, Pass GCSE can help you find a local exam centre and register you for your exams.
You can find out more about A level’s and GCSE’s and what these qualifications mean on the gov site.
Why Do I Need A Levels?
A levels are often required for university courses such as nursing because they demonstrate the skills necessary to excel within your chosen field. For example, with nursing, an A Level Biology grade shows that you have managed to gain relevant knowledge, and apply it in the context of your exams. A levels demonstrate that you have learned a vast amount of new information in a designated timeframe, can study independently and effectively, and are comfortable with comprehension and language skills. These are all transferable and desirable qualities of a prospective nurse. Achieving your A levels proves that you have what it takes to successfully complete a nursing course at university and it is a UCAS requirement to have a certain number of points.
A Level Exam Options:
If you are of school age and remain in education, you can take your A levels in school or college. However, if you are older and not currently taking the qualifications you need to apply for a nursing course, you can book your exams as a private candidate. The following links go to a reputable A level exams service that can help you prepare for and take your A level exams.
Key Information About Your A Levels
All A Level exams for entry into nursing must be completed in person at a registered exam centre. Not all centres will offer all subjects and exam boards, and you will have to travel to take your exam. Online providers such as Pass A Level can find you a local centre which is suitable for your exams, and will take care of the booking administration.
Knowing what A levels you need to become a nurse is just as important as the format of your exams. The examination style is likely to be written, although some A levels require coursework or practicals to be completed. Each written paper you take will last around 2 hours on average, and you will take your exams on the same day at the same time as candidates around the country.
How to Prepare for Your A Levels
It is important that you give yourself the best chance of passing your exams. If you are no longer in formal education, this is likely to be structured revision in the form of a course. Although you cannot complete your A level exams online, you can study at home or anywhere with an internet connection with online A Level courses. Online courses are a great way to make sure that your revision can fit around you, as they are accessible 24/7. You should use a course from a reputable provider to ensure that each topic is covered in its entirety, and that it is relevant to your exact qualification and exam board.
FAQs:
What A levels do I need to become a nurse?
The subjects you choose for your A levels should complement your future plans. For a career in nursing, it is sensible to take science-based subjects at A level. Many universities specifically request biology A level, and other science subjects such as psychology and sociology are a great choice for aspiring nurses.
Can I get into nursing without A levels?
You can get into nursing without A levels by taking an equivalent qualification. A levels are Level 3 qualifications, as are Access to Higher Education Diplomas. Many universities accept these diplomas, or BTECs, in place of traditional A levels in order for applicants to proceed along higher education pathways.
Why do I need A levels to be a nurse?
As well as asking what A levels do you need to become a nurse, you might also wonder why they are required at all. A levels and other Level 3 qualifications are used to evidence your aptitude in certain subjects. Holding a passing grade in Psychology A Level, for example, proves to universities and future employers that you have built up substantial knowledge in that scientific area, and have managed to apply your understanding in exam scenarios. All A levels, regardless of subject, show that you can absorb a large amount of information in a specific subject area, as well as commit to studying consistently, which is what you will be required to do at university.
What grades do I need to become a nurse?
The majority of university nursing course entry requirements state that applicants must have 104 UCAS points. This means that you must achieve 2/3 A levels at sufficiently high grades. As a guideline, the average applicant must achieve BBB in 3 A levels, one of which should be a science subject.
How do I get into nursing?
You can become a nurse once you have studied nursing at university, or have completed the necessary apprenticeship courses. Many university course entry requirements include A level passing grades or higher, to ensure that applicants have the skills needed to succeed in their degree. In short, to become a nurse you will likely need grades 4/C in English Language and Maths GCSEs or equivalent, sufficient grades in your A levels (for example BBB with one science subject) or equivalent, and a completed degree in Nursing. The determination needed to achieve these qualifications will stand you in good stead for a career as a nurse - a tough but rewarding job.
How can I take my A levels outside of school?
You can take your A levels outside of school or college by registering with an exam centre as an A level private candidate. Providers like Pass A Level can find a suitable exam centre near you, and take care of the registration process on your behalf. You won’t need to worry about logistics, and can rest assured that you will have all the information you need well in advance of exam day.
How do I know if I am an A level private candidate?
If you are someone who plans to sit their A levels outside of formal education (e.g. school or college) then you are an A level private candidate. This phrase just means that you are taking your A levels privately, with an exam centre you have registered at; candidates taking their exams in school are registered by their schools on their behalf.
About the author
Emma Taylor works for Pass A Level.
