As students across the UK await their A-Level results, an education expert forecasts a notable trend: boys are likely to secure a greater proportion of top grades compared to girls. With A-Level grades predicted to rise this summer, Professor Alan Smithers of the University of Buckingham highlights the influence of popular subjects like mathematics, which are increasingly steering students towards higher achievements.
A Shift in Academic Trends
This summer is poised to see an increase in outstanding A-Level results, marking a departure from the pandemic years. According to Professor Smithers, the percentage of students achieving A* or A grades is expected to rise slightly, with boys leading the way in these top distinctions. The director of the Centre for Education and Employment Research notes that this could signal a new trend in academic performance, as the popularity of quantitative subjects continues to grow.
In 2025, data revealed that 28.3% of A-Level entries were granted either an A or A*, an increase from 27.8% in 2024 and 27.2% in 2023, as well as a significant rise from 25.4% in 2019. Last year’s results showed a record high for A-Level achievements outside the pandemic period, where the figure peaked at 44.8% in 2021.
The Maths Factor
Professor Smithers points to a significant shift towards A-Level subjects such as maths and economics, which are known for yielding higher grades. The professor’s recent report identifies that these subjects have gained traction due to their promising job prospects, which have become increasingly relevant to students navigating a challenging job market.
For the 13th consecutive year, mathematics remains the most popular A-Level choice among students. Economics has also made a notable appearance in the top five for the first time since Ofqual began releasing data in 2014. “These subjects are among the highest awarders of A* and A*/A grades,” said Professor Smithers. “This points to a further rise in top grades.”
He emphasised that job prospects have influenced students’ A-Level choices, especially given the economic difficulties faced by young people today.
Gender Dynamics in Results
In a surprising turn, boys outperformed girls in achieving top A-Level grades last year for the first time since 2018. The figures showed that 28.4% of boys’ entries received an A or A*, slightly ahead of girls at 28.2%. Furthermore, boys achieved A* grades at a rate of 9.9%, surpassing girls by 0.8 percentage points.
Historically, boys had led in A* grades from 2012 to 2019, but the pandemic years saw girls take the lead. As the educational landscape shifts back, Professor Smithers suggests that the rising popularity of quantitative subjects may further solidify boys’ advantage in top grades. However, he acknowledges that the influx of entries in subjects like psychology, biology, and history could also boost girls’ performance.
Looking Ahead
As A-Level results day approaches on August 13, expectations remain cautious. Professor Smithers predicts that Northern Ireland will continue to outperform both England and Wales in A-Level results. “We could see in the 2026 results small rises in top grades continuing,” he remarked, while also cautioning that the gap between boys and girls at the A* level may widen slightly.
Nevertheless, he stressed that the final results are not predetermined, as they can be influenced by adjustments in grading thresholds by the government and exam regulators.
A spokesperson from the Department for Education reassured students and parents that exam grades will accurately reflect students’ abilities, urging young people to be proud of their achievements regardless of the outcomes.
Why it Matters
The anticipated rise in A-Level results this year could have far-reaching implications for students’ academic and professional futures. As higher grades often lead to better university placements and career opportunities, understanding the dynamics behind these trends is crucial. The shifting landscape of subject popularity, particularly with boys leaning towards quantitative fields, highlights the importance of encouraging balanced educational choices among all students. Ultimately, the results could shape future educational policies and support systems, ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
