The truth is, A Levels doesn’t have to mean crowded classrooms, long time‑table gaps, distractions in every corner, or being stuck with a teaching style that doesn’t click. More and more students are turning to private A Levels for a multitude of reasons — be it to save money, escape distractions, or simply to be fully locked in and take control over their own learning.
While this option certainly has its appeal, before you decide, it’s worth asking if this path is the right choice for you.
Why going private could be your ticket to thriving in quiet
Easier on the wallet
Unless your college is offering you a scholarship or another form of financial aid, sitting exams privately can be a good option if doing A Levels brings up financial concerns...
You choose who teaches you
Having flexibility in a college faculty would be any student’s dream — but this isn’t a liberty every student has...
Less noise, fewer distractions
This depends entirely on your preferences and what you want from your A Level journey...
You learn to be an independent learner
Private study forces you to take charge...
You control the timetable, not vice versa
A universal timetable doesn’t fit everyone. Some students thrive in morning classes, others struggle...
The Double-Edged Sword
Private A Levels sounds appealing for good reason — they are flexible, affordable, and give you control over your studies...
- Pick up new hobbies
- Explore part-time work
- Be intentional about seeking opportunities outside the classroom
Time for a Checklist
- Do I have the discipline to stick to a study routine without anyone forcing me?
- Can I stay motivated even without classmates or a built-in support system?
- Am I clear on which subjects I am taking and why?
- What resources do I have available if I sit exams privately?
- Are finances a concern for me and my family?
- Do I feel confident managing exam registrations and deadlines myself?
- Will studying privately affect my university admission process in any way?
If you found yourself answering “yes” to most of these, private A Levels might give you exactly the flexibility and focus you need.
Think of it not as a short-cut, but as a different road: the destination is the same, but the way you travel is entirely in your hands.