Planning to pursue law in the future? Or dreaming of becoming a lawyer one day? If you have an interest in this field, it’s normal to be curious about the A-levels needed for law. A few common questions many parents ask include: What A-levels do you need to be a lawyer? What are the best A-level subjects for a law degree? What makes a good combination in order to gain entry into university? And is law A-level worth it?
In this article, we’ll share some of the best A-levels for law that universities value, why they matter, examples of subject combinations to consider, and how to improve your chances for admission. Plus, learn how students at Lord Wandsworth College are guided every step of the way from subject selection to applications for a law degree.
Key Takeaways
- UK universities do not require specific A-levels for a law degree, and most do not require or prefer A-level Law.
- The strongest choices are essay-based subjects such as English Literature, History and Politics, which build the reading, analysis and argument a law degree demands.
- A good combination is two or three complementary essay subjects, optionally with one facilitating subject like Maths or a Science for breadth.
- A-level Law can be interesting but should not replace an essay subject, and it does not give an advantage in admissions.
- Strong grades and a compelling personal statement matter as much as subject choice for a competitive law application.
- At Lord Wandsworth College, the Futures Team guides students on subjects, enrichment and applications for law and other competitive degrees.
What A-Levels Do You Need for Law? The Honest Answer
Most UK universities do not require specific A-levels for a law degree, and most do not require or prefer A-level Law, despite being available at this stage. What matters is strong grades in respected, essay-based subjects such as English Literature, History, Politics, Philosophy, Economics and more.
Whilst they’re not A-levels required for law per se, they do build a strong foundation in skills like reading, writing, analysis, argument and problem-solving. So if you’re wondering what A-levels do you need to be a lawyer? Remember that essay-based subjects or those that encourage critical thinking and analytic reasoning are key.
Do You Need Law A-levels (A-level Law) to Study Law?
No, you do not really need Law A-levels in order to study law or pursue a law degree. Most universities look at the grades you achieve in core academic subjects like English, Maths and Science. In fact, the higher your grade (a grade C and above), the better your chances at gaining entry into university.
The Best A-Levels for Law: Subjects Universities Value
Essay-based subjects such as English Literature, History, Politics, Philosophy, Economics and other languages are the best A-level subjects for law degree students. Universities value these subjects because they foster critical thinking, communication and analytical skills, which are quintessential in the practice of law.
The table below shows a rough guide of which A-levels for law help to develop different skill sets. That said, remember to check the specific course entry requirements as they may vary between universities.
| Category | Subjects | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Strongly helpful | English Literature, History | Build reading, analysis and written argument, the core skills a law degree tests |
| Helpful | Politics, Philosophy, Economics, Classical Civilisation, Languages | Develop reasoning, essay-writing and understanding of society and institutions |
| Useful all-rounders | A facilitating subject such as Maths or a Science | Show breadth and analytical rigour alongside essay subjects |
| Not required (and not preferred) | A-level Law | Universities do not require or prefer it; it does not replace an essay subject |
Why Essay Subjects Matter Most for Law
The reason why essay-based subjects are strongly preferred is because they nurture important skills that a law degree demands. For example, reading dense materials, constructing strong arguments, and writing or speaking in a clear, persuasive manner.
Here’s a list of how different subjects help develop these skills:
- English Literature or Language: Develops close reading, interpretation and the ability to communicate ideas clearly and persuasively.
- History: Builds skills in evaluating evidence, understanding different perspectives and constructing well-supported arguments.
- Politics: Encourages students to examine institutions, legislation, power and competing viewpoints, which are critical in the wider context of law.
- Philosophy: Develops logical reasoning and encourages students to question assumptions, evaluate arguments and reach reasoned conclusions.
- Economics: Strengthens analytical thinking whilst helping students understand how laws, policies and economic decisions can interact.
How to Build the Best A-level Combination for Law
There is no single perfect combination for law. Instead, the best A-levels for law degree students are two or three complementary essay subjects that align with their interests, including one subject (such as Maths or Science) that facilitates academic breadth.
Here are a few examples of which A-levels for law would make a good combination:
| Example combination | Why it works for law |
|---|---|
| English literature, History, Politics | Three complementary essay subjects; strong for reading, argument and understanding institutions |
| History, Economics, Maths | Blends essay skill with analytical and quantitative rigour |
| English literature, History, a Language | Adds communication and cultural breadth valued by admissions tutors |
| Philosophy, History, English literature | Excellent for logical reasoning and constructing arguments |
Combinations to Approach With Care
One thing to consider is whether your combination gives you enough academic breadth. For example, taking too many similar or narrowly vocational subjects may not prepare you well enough for law. Meanwhile, avoiding specific A-levels that could help you build essay writing or critical writing can also weaken your application. That said, it’s still important to choose subjects you enjoy and are capable of performing well in.
Beyond A-Levels: What Else Strengthens a Law Application
Apart from achieving outstanding A-level results that convert to higher UCAS points, students who participate in law-related co-curricular activities, join debate or public speaking clubs, follow current affairs and complete legal internships tend to have a stronger application. Plus, having a personal statement that’s specific and well-evidenced will help universities understand your motivation, achievements and experience that make you suitable for the law degree. Students should also prepare for the Law National Admissions Test (LNAT) and the Cambridge Law Test if you’re applying to universities that require applications to take admission tests.
Preparing for a Law Degree at Lord Wandsworth College
At Lord Wandsworth College, students interested in pursuing a law degree or other competitive courses get comprehensive support from both Sixth Form tutors and our dedicated Futures Team, who are highly experienced and thus, are able to provide appropriate advice and guidance tailored to each student.
How the Futures Team Supports Law Applicants
From helping students choose the best A-levels for law and suggesting the relevant co-curriculars to participate in, to drafting a strong personal statement and assisting with UCAS applications, LWC’s Futures Team provide personalised support at every stage of the application process. Students also benefit from higher education events, career fairs and networking opportunities that give them valuable insight into the legal profession and future career options.
A-levels and Enrichment That Build Strong Applicants
LWC’s broad Sixth Form curriculum gives students numerous A-levels for law to choose from, alongside a range of co-curricular and enrichment programmes designed to foster important skills relevant to future law careers. This is where our students develop independent research, take part in law-related discussions, lead teams, and polish their presentation skills whilst building confidence and critical thinking. LWC also offers the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which could help strengthen our students’ law applications.
How to Join LWC Sixth Form
Families considering joining our Sixth Form are more than welcome to discuss admissions, entry requirements and law-related opportunities available to students. We also highly encourage booking a visit to tour the campus and see what Sixth Form life is truly like at LWC.