Maths and languages students to get top A-level grades

Pupils who take maths or languages at A-level are more likely to score a new A* grade than those who study English or media studies, according to a research out yesterday.

Almost one in four of all further maths grades are anticipated to be an A*, compared with fewer than one in 10 (nine per cent) for English literature, according to a report by Ofqual.

Around seven per cent of exam entries overall are expected to be given the top grade this summer.

The exams watchdog looked at last year's A-level results to assess the proportion that would have scored an A* had the grade been available last year.

The work was carried out to give an indication of the proportions that will receive the grade in each subject this August.

The new A* grade is being awarded for the first time this summer. In order to achieve it, a candidate must get an A overall, as well as at least 90 per cent of all the marks available in the second year of their course.

The findings show that high proportions of entries for foreign languages are likely to score the top grade.