What next after A-levels or college?

If you really enjoy a particular subject, or have set your heart on a career that requires a degree, then university can seem an obvious choice. But before getting swept along, think about the bigger picture. Consider the time, money and effort involved, and the alternatives out there – to check it’s both the right path and the right time for you.

Get help making choices with our Eight questions to help decide if university is your next step.

A further education college course is an option if you want to study new subjects, gain new skills or improve existing ones. If you’ve completed one college course and want to move on to the next stage, or are coming to college after your A-levels, there are lots of choices out there.

A college course can be the standard route for certain careers. A year-long Art Foundation course, for example, is a common path to studying art at higher education. (You can also choose degrees with an integrated foundation year. As always, when you know what you want to do, be sure to research all your options).

Some colleges also offer A-level re-takes, if you want to take your exams again to boost your grades.

If you want to learn a new profession, trade or skill, this could be the route for you. An apprenticeship is a real job with training so you can earn while you learn and pick up qualifications as you go. Schemes take between one and five years to complete, depending on the level you choose.

See What is an apprenticeship and where can it lead? for more details.

If you want to start your working life, check out job boards such as NotgoingtoUni.

Speak to your school or college careers advisor – they may know about opportunities with local employers.

A gap year can be a good option if you want to take some time out and try something different or new, before continuing with your studies or starting work.  Your gap year could include travelling, volunteering, gaining paid work experience, or a combination of all three.

See Why take a gap year? for more ideas.

If you’re still at school or college then speak to your teachers or career advisors. Parents, carers, friends and relatives may also be able to provide ideas and guidance.

The National Careers Service offers advice online or by phone.

Search icould career videos to discover what careers are out there and see a range of real-life routes people have taken.

See Choosing well: how to pick the right path for you for support in making big decisions.