A level Biology (International)

Why study A level Biology (International)?

A level Biology (International) blends theoretical and practical understanding with analytical skills. You will develop a deep understanding of the intricacies of the living world and its interaction with other systems, including its impact on us and us on it. Alongside in-depth knowledge of the biological world, the study of Biology also helps you to develop skills in research, problem solving, organisation and communication.

Gaining an A level in Biology opens up a vast range of opportunities for both university degrees and career options. Biology is a pre-requisite subject for many degrees in Biological Science and Medical related fields of study. Careers directly related to biology include medicine, veterinary science, pharmacy, physiotherapy, biomedical engineering, microbiology, marine biology, conservation and ecology, environmental management, food science, agricultural engineering and zoology. Biology is also a requirement for some Psychology degrees.

Note that our experienced University Service Advisers can advise on A level courses and all aspects of university entrance including application support and references.

Wolsey Hall Oxford is a registered school of Cambridge Assessment International Education

Wolsey Hall is a registered online Cambridge International School.

We offer a wide range of A level courses.

A level biology

What do I need to know to enrol?

A level Biology (International) is available only to students based outside the UK. It builds directly on the work you will have done for IGCSE/GCSE in the subject. Grade B or 6 at IGCSE/GCSE is required before starting on the A level. Due to the knowledge of Mathematics required, we also require that you have  Grade B or 6 in Maths. We also strongly recommend that you have studied Chemistry at IGCSE or equivalent before embarking on this subject. Wolsey Hall offers the relevant IGCSE courses should you need further prior study. All students undertaking Wolsey Hall A levels must also have IGCSE in English Language at Grade C or 4.

The syllabus and exam

This course prepares you for the Edexcel International A level Biology syllabus XBI11 (for AS) and YBI11 (for A2). Exams take place in January, June and October.

AS level

Paper 1

Molecules, Diet, Transport and Health (code WBI11/01) worth 40% of the AS grade and 20% of the overall A level grade. (1 hour and 30 minutes)

Paper 2

Cells, Development, Biodiversity and Conservation (code WBI12/01) worth 40% of the AS grade and 20% of the overall A level grade. (1 hour and 30 minutes)

Paper 3

Practical Skills in Biology I (code WBI13/01) worth 20% of the AS grade and 10% of the overall A level grade. (1 hour and 20 minutes)

A2 level

Paper 4

Energy, Environment, Microbiology and Immunity (code WBI14/01) worth 40% of the A2 grade and 20% of the overall A level grade. (1 hour and 45 minutes)

Paper 5

Respiration, Internal Environment, Coordination and Gene Technology (code WBI15/01) worth 40% of the A2 grade and 20% of the overall A level grade. (1 hour and 45 minutes)

Paper 6

Practical Skills in Biology II (code WBI16/01) worth 20% of the A2 grade and 10% of the overall A level grade. (1 hour and 20 minutes)

You will not be expected to carry out experiments during the exam; however, you are expected to develop your experimental skills, and a knowledge and understanding of practical techniques is necessary as any of the exam papers may assess your understanding of the scientific method, particularly in relation to the core practicals listed in the syllabus.

We have developed resources in conjunction with the Lab Book so that home students can familiarise themselves with the methods by watching appropriate YouTube videos, and using hypothetical data to complete as many of the questions as possible. Where feasible, you may even be able to carry out a simplified method at home. These resources are all self-assessed, as the answers to analytical questions are provided with the Lab Book, but your tutor is available to answer any questions.

All of our A level courses include a number of past exam papers in the final module. These include the most recent paper which can be taken as a mock exam and submitted to your Tutor for assessment and feedback for a modest additional fee.

Course samples

Course Fees

The initial study advice I received was easy to understand. My Tutors were more than helpful and were quick to answer any of my questions and grade my assignments. My Student Progress Manager was excellent in not only guiding me but keeping me up to date on events and other stuff also.

Jin Bo-Kyung, A Level Student

South Korea

I really love the way the Wolsey Hall Oxford homeschooling system works. It gives you spare time to focus on the things that are important to you. I really like that whenever we struggled with anything there was a lot of help available and the Tutors are very helpful.

Ame Pretorius – IGCSE Student

Botswana