A levels subjects in Zambia

In Zambia, A-Level (Advanced Level) subjects  typically used to be offered in private schools, international schools, and some specialized institutions following the Cambridge International (CIE), Edexcel, or other British curriculum systems. However the new education system has added A levels subjects in the government school curriculum. 

A levels subjects in Zambia

These subjects are usually taken after completing O-Levels (Ordinary Level or IGCSE) and serve as a preparatory stage for university education.

Common A-Level Subjects in Zambia

A-Level students in Zambia typically choose three to four subjects based on their desired career path. Subjects are divided into science, arts, and commerce streams:

1. Science Stream

  • Mathematics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Further Mathematics
  • Computer Science
  • Environmental Management

2. Arts & Humanities Stream

  • English Literature
  • History
  • Geography
  • Law
  • Sociology
  • Psychology
  • Religious Studies

3. Commerce & Business Stream

  • Economics
  • Business Studies
  • Accounting
  • Commerce

4. Other Specialized Subjects

  • Art & Design
  • Music
  • Physical Education
  • Global Perspectives & Research

Exam Boards in Zambia

  • Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) – The most widely recognized A-Level system in Zambia.
  • Edexcel (Pearson) – Offered in some international schools.
  • Zambian School Certificate (ZSC) A-Levels – Less common but available in selected institutions.

Where to Study A-Levels in Zambia?

Today A levels have been introduced to all government schools having forms 5 and 6.
Other providers of A level subjects include:
 
  • International Schools (e.g., Lusaka International School, Baobab College, Lechwe School, Chengelo School)
  • Private Schools & Colleges (e.g., Rhodes Park School, Lake Road PTA School)
Open and Distance Learning Institutions


Which A level subjects should i choose?

Choosing the right A-Level subjects in Zambia is an important decision that can impact your university options and career path. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the best choice:

1. Consider Your Career Goals & University Requirements

  • Think about the career path you want to pursue (e.g., medicine, law, engineering, business).
  • Research university admission requirements in Zambia and abroad—some degrees require specific A-Level subjects.
  • Example:
    • Medicine → Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics/Physics
    • Engineering → Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry
    • Law → History, English Literature, Government & Politics

2. Choose Subjects You Enjoy & Excel In

  • Pick subjects you are naturally good at.
  • A-Level is more advanced than O-Level, so selecting subjects you struggle with might make it harder to score well.

3. Balance Core & Supporting Subjects

  • Most students take three to four subjects.
  • A good combination includes:
    • One or two core subjects (e.g., Biology for Medicine, Economics for Business)
    • One or two supporting subjects (e.g., Mathematics, Psychology, Geography)
    • Optional subject (if needed for university or personal interest)

4. Check Subject Combinations That Work Well Together

Certain subjects complement each other, making study easier.

  • Science Stream: Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology
  • Business Stream: Economics, Business Studies, Accounting
  • Arts & Humanities: History, English Literature, Sociology, Law

5. Look at International vs Local Relevance

  • If you plan to study abroad, choose subjects recognized by universities overseas (e.g., Cambridge A-Levels).
  • Some subjects, like General Paper or Global Perspectives, improve critical thinking and are useful for university applications.

6. Seek Guidance from Teachers & Career Advisors

  • Talk to A-Level teachers and career counselors in your school.
  • Ask university representatives what subjects they prefer for specific degrees.

7. Think About Workload & Assessment Style

  • Some subjects involve a lot of reading and essays (e.g., History, Law).
  • Others focus more on practical work and problem-solving (e.g., Mathematics, Physics).
  • Choose based on your study strengths and learning style.

Final Tip:

✅ Choose subjects that align with your career goals
✅ Pick subjects you enjoy and can perform well in
✅ Ensure a good balance between core and supporting subjects
✅ Check university admission requirements early

Summary

Taking A advanced level subjects requires extra effort for success. Making a right choice of subjects combination is a first step if you want to make your academic dreams come true. Choose what  seems valuable and in line with your goals.


Related: New school curricula in Zambia