Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

HOME > Blog

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

Choosing the right education pathway after Matriculation is one of the most important decisions for students in Pakistan. Many students and parents ask an increasingly common question:
 Can we do A Levels after Matric in Pakistan?

The short answer is YES — but with conditions.

In this detailed, guide, I will explain eligibility, admission requirements, IBCC equivalence, advantages, challenges, and career impact of switching from Matric to A Levels in Pakistan.

Think With Jamal

Think With Jamal Sohail is your space to explore big ideas, real-world case studies, and lessons that shape the way we think.

My mission is simple: to make knowledge accessible, relatable, and inspiring—so you can think bigger, act smarter, and grow stronger.

Join me on this journey of ideas, insights, and impact.

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

Introduction: Matric to A Levels Pathway

Pakistan’s education system offers multiple routes after Matric, including FSC, ICS, ICOM, and increasingly, A Levels. While the traditional route to A Levels is through O Levels, many students successfully transition from Matric — provided they prepare properly.

 

What Is Matric and What Are A Levels?

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

Matriculation (SSC)

Matric is Pakistan’s local secondary education system, completed after Class 9 and 10 under boards such as:

  • Federal Board (FBISE)
  • Punjab, Sindh, KPK & Balochistan Boards

https://www.fbise.edu.pk/

 

A Levels

A Levels is a UK-based qualification offered by:

A Levels typically take two years and focus on analytical, concept-based learning.

 

Can You Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

Yes — But It’s Not the Standard Route

While O Levels to A Levels is the usual path, Matric students can also enroll in A Levels in Pakistan. However:

  • Admission is college-specific
  • Academic screening is common
  • English proficiency matters greatly

This option is mostly offered by private A Level colleges.

 

Eligibility Criteria for A Levels After Matric

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

Most colleges look for:

 

Strong Academic Performance

  • Typically 70% or above in Matric
  • Good performance in relevant subjects

English Language Proficiency

A Levels are fully taught and examined in English, so students from Urdu-medium backgrounds may need extra preparation.

 

Subject Compatibility

Matric Background

Suitable A Level Subjects

Science (Pre-Medical)

Biology, Chemistry, Physics

Science (Computer)

Math, Physics, CS

Arts

Business, Economics, Media Studies

 

Entry Test or Interview

Many colleges conduct assessments to ensure readiness.

 

Colleges in Pakistan That Accept Matric Students for A Levels

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

Some well-known institutions that may accept Matric students (policies vary by campus):

Always confirm admission criteria directly with the campus.

 

IBCC Equivalence Requirements

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

The Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC) is responsible for equivalence certification.

https://ibcc.edu.pk/

 

Is IBCC Equivalence Needed?

  • Not required to start A Levels
  • Required for university admissions in Pakistan

After completing A Levels, students must obtain:

  • A Level equivalence for local universities
  • Additional subject requirements if applying to medical or engineering programs

 

Challenges of Switching from Matric to A Levels

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

English Language Barrier

Essay-based answers and critical analysis can be challenging initially.

Learning Style Difference

  • Matric: Rote learning
  • A Levels: Conceptual & analytical learning

Higher Cost

A Levels involve:

  • High tuition fees
  • International exam fees
  • Costly textbooks

 

Advantages of Doing A Levels After Matric

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

International Recognition

Accepted by universities worldwide:
https://www.ucas.com/

Skill Development

A Levels build:

  • Critical thinking
  • Research skills
  • Academic writing ability

Flexible Subject Choices

Students can tailor subjects according to career goals.

 

A Levels vs FSC – Comparison Table

Feature

A Level

FSC

Medium

English

English/Urdu

System

British

Pakistani

Cost

High

Low

Recognition

Global

Mostly Local

Learning Style

Analytical

Rote-based

 

Is A Levels After Matric the Right Choice for You?

Can We Do A Levels After Matric in Pakistan?

Choose A Levels if you:

  • Have strong English skills
  • Aim for foreign universities
  • Prefer conceptual learning
  • Can afford higher costs

Choose FSC if you:

  • Want affordability
  • Prefer the local system
  • Plan for public sector universities

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q, Can I do A Levels without O Levels?
A. Yes, in some colleges.

Q. Will Pakistani universities accept me?
A. Yes, with IBCC equivalence.

Q. Is A Levels harder than FSC?

A. Generally yes, due to depth and assessment style.

 

Final Verdict

Yes, you can do A Levels after Matric in Pakistan, but it requires:

  • Strong academics
  • English proficiency
  • Proper planning
  • The right college choice

This route is best for students seeking international exposure, flexible subject options, and skill-based education — but it’s not the easiest path.

Share This :