A-level Economics

The A-level Economics examination is ideal for those students wishing to apply for undergraduate degrees in Economic or Business related subjects.

In order to obtain this A-Level, students must take four separate examinations. The titles of the four papers are:

  • Unit 1: Markets in Action
  • Unit 2: Macroeconomic Policy and Performance
  • Unit 3: Business Behavior
  • Unit 4: Developments in the Global Economy

More specifically, Papers 1 and 2 make up half an A-Level, known as the AS Level and Papers 3 and 4 make up the other half, known as the A2 level. Thus, each paper makes up 25% of the student’s final A-Level grade.

The syllabus is typically taught within two academic years, but can be completed sooner on the premise that the student is willing to input more time and effort.

Please see the table below for a detailed analysis of the four papers.

Unit number and title Level Assessment Information Number of raw marks Allocated in the Unit
Unit 1:
Markets in Action
IAS Examination length: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Examination paper in two sections:
Section A Supported multiple-choice questions. Worth 32 marks.
Section B One data response question out of a choice of two questions. Worth 48 marks.

80
Unit 2:
Macroeconomic Performance and Policy
IAS Examination length: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Examination paper in two sections:
Section A Supported multiple-choice questions. Worth 32 marks.
Section B One data response question out of a choice of two questions. Worth 48 marks.

80
Unit 3:
Business Behaviour
IA2 Examination length: 2 hours

Examination paper in two sections:
Section A Two essay questions from a choice of four questions. Worth 40 marks.
Section B One data response question out of a choice of two questions. Worth 40 marks.

80
Unit 4:
Developments in the Global Economy
IA2 Examination length: 2 hours

Examination paper in two sections:
Section A One essay question with two parts from a choice of three topic areas. Worth 40 marks.
Section B One data response question out of a choice of two questions. Worth 40 marks.

80

For any further information please visit the official International A-Level site: qualifications.pearson.com