Achieving an A* at A-Level is one of the most challenging, and rewarding, academic goals a student can set. With rising grade boundaries, competitive university offers and increasing pressure, getting an A* is no longer about simply revising more. It requires strategic revision, excellent exam technique and a deep understanding of how marks are awarded.
At Apollo Scholars, we help students across the UK achieve A* grades through in-person and online 1:1 and small online group tuition. This hub guide brings together everything you need to know about getting an A* at A-Level, with subject-specific support for:
- A-Level Economics
- A-Level Business Studies
- A-Level English Language
- A-Level English Literature
- A-Level History
Each section links to an in-depth subject guide so you can focus on exactly what matters most for your exams.
What Does an A* at A-Level Actually Require?
An A* is not awarded for being “good” at a subject; it is awarded for consistently meeting top-band assessment criteria. Across all A-Level subjects, examiners look for students who:
- Demonstrate secure and confident subject knowledge
- Apply knowledge accurately to exam questions
- Use clear structure and precise terminology
- Show analysis, evaluation and judgement where required
- Write focused answers that directly address the question
The difference between an A and an A* is often not content, but technique. This is why targeted tuition can make such a significant difference.
Why So Many Students Miss Out on an A*
Many capable students fall just short of an A* because they:
- Revise content but do not practice exam questions
- Do not fully understand mark schemes
- Write descriptive answers instead of analytical ones
- Struggle with timing under exam conditions
- Lack detailed feedback on how to improve
At Apollo Scholars, our approach focuses on how examiners think, helping students turn strong knowledge into top marks.
How to Revise for an A* at A-Level
While every subject is different, high-achieving students tend to follow similar revision principles:
1. Prioritise Active Revision
- Complete past paper questions regularly
- Use active recall instead of rereading notes
- Test yourself under timed conditions
2. Understand the Mark Scheme
- Learn what top-band answers look like
- Identify command words and assessment objectives
- Practice structuring answers to meet criteria
3. Target Weak Areas
- Focus revision where marks are most easily gained
- Do not avoid difficult topics
- Use feedback to guide your revision
4. Practice Consistently
- Short, regular study sessions are more effective than cramming
- High-performing students revise little and often
Subject-Specific A-Level A* Guides
Below you will find links to detailed guides for each A-Level subject we tutor. Each one explains exactly what examiners are looking for and how to maximise your marks.
📘 A-Level Economics
Learn how to structure essays, perfect evaluation and use diagrams and real-world examples effectively.
👉 Read: How to Get an A* in A-Level Economics
📊 A-Level Business Studies
Master case study application, analysis and evaluation to reach top-band answers.
👉 Read: How to Get an A* in A-Level Business Studies
📝 A-Level English Language
Develop strong analytical frameworks, precise terminology and confident exam writing.
👉 Read: How to Get an A* in A-Level English Language
📚 A-Level English Literature
Learn how to write conceptual essays, integrate context and build a confident critical voice.
👉 Read: How to Get an A* in A-Level English Literature
🏛️ A-Level History
Master essay structure, judgement and source evaluation to consistently reach top marks.
👉 Read: How to Get an A* in A-Level History
Is Online A-Level Tuition Worth It?
Online tuition is one of the most effective ways to improve A-Level performance when it is:
- Personalised to the student
- Focused on exam technique
- Delivered by subject specialists
At Apollo Scholars, our online tuition offers:
- 1:1 and small group sessions
- Exam-board specific support
- Detailed feedback on essays and exam questions
- Flexible scheduling around school commitments
Many of our students improve by one, two or even three grades within a term.
Who Is This Guide For?
This guide is ideal for:
- Students aiming to move from an A to an A*
- Year 12 students who want to get ahead early
- Year 13 students preparing for final exams
- Parents seeking high-quality A-Level support
Are You Ready to Work Towards an A* at A-Level?
Achieving an A* is absolutely possible with the right guidance and strategy. Whether you need help with content, exam technique, or confidence, Apollo Scholars is here to help.
👉 Book your online A-Level 1:1 or group tuition today.
Explore our subject-specific guides above and take the next step towards top grades.
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