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Oxford Online School

Key Stage 5

💰 Economics

Analyse markets, policy and global systems through a rigorous A Level Economics course with live lessons, small classes and expert teacher guidance.

Overview

A Level Economics develops the analytical tools to understand how individuals, firms and governments make decisions under conditions of scarcity. Students apply microeconomic and macroeconomic theory to real-world events, building the evaluative skills needed for university study in economics, finance, politics and business.

What Students Study

Microeconomic Theory

Students examine the decisions made by consumers and producers in individual markets. Supply and demand analysis, price mechanisms and market structure are studied in depth.

  • Demand, supply and market equilibrium
  • Elasticity and consumer behaviour
  • Market structures: perfect competition to monopoly

Market Failure and Government Intervention

Students evaluate the circumstances in which free markets produce inefficient or inequitable outcomes, and assess the range of government policy responses available.

  • Externalities, public goods and information failures
  • Government policies: taxes, subsidies and regulation
  • Cost-benefit analysis and policy evaluation

Macroeconomic Objectives and Policy

This unit examines the national economy, exploring how governments pursue growth, employment, price stability and balanced trade through fiscal and monetary policy.

  • GDP, economic growth and the business cycle
  • Inflation, unemployment and their causes
  • Fiscal policy, monetary policy and supply-side reforms

International Trade and the Global Economy

Students analyse the benefits and challenges of globalisation, trade, exchange rates and international financial flows, with reference to current economic events.

  • Comparative advantage and trade policy
  • Exchange rates and their economic effects
  • Globalisation, development and international institutions

Economic Analysis and Evaluation

Students develop the higher-order skills of applying theory to data, constructing evidence-based arguments and evaluating conflicting economic perspectives.

  • Interpreting economic data and diagrams
  • Constructing and evaluating extended arguments
  • Applying theory to contemporary economic issues

Assessment & Progress

Oxford Online School follows the Pearson Edexcel International A Level (IAL) Economics specification. This qualification is assessed through written examination only, without coursework. To build exam readiness, students complete:

  • Weekly homework assignments
  • Termly project-based assessments
  • Full mock exams with personalised written feedback

Course Details

Assessment

  • The qualification is assessed entirely through written examinations.
  • No coursework or non-examined assessment component is required.
  • All examinations are sat at an approved Pearson Edexcel International A Level centre.
  • Grades are awarded on a scale from A* to E.

Course Duration

The International A Level course runs over two academic years (Years 12 and 13). Students have continuous access to live online lessons, one-to-one subject support, and learning resources throughout the programme.

Course Outcome

Students who successfully complete all required examinations are awarded the Pearson Edexcel International A Level qualification. This is recognised by universities and higher education institutions worldwide as equivalent to UK A Levels.

Entry Requirements

  • Five or more International GCSE grades at C/4 or above (or equivalent)
  • Grade B/6 or above at IGCSE level in the chosen A Level subject or a closely related subject
  • A pass in an internal subject assessment completed prior to enrolment
  • Students whose English is not their first language must provide a language certificate showing a minimum B2 level in all components, or sit an internal English assessment
  • Two years of previous school reports are required
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Have questions about A Level Economics? Here are some of the key things families often want to know.

Next steps

Ready for university?

Our Sixth Form A Level programme gives students the grades, skills, and personal statement support to secure their university place.