Course Overview

The International Advanced Level Business qualification consists of two IAS units (Units 1 and 2) plus two IA2 units (Units 3 and 4). The AS Level qualification may be awarded as a discrete qualification or may contribute 50 per cent towards the International A Level qualification.

Students will study Marketing and People; Managing Business Activities; Business Decisions and Strategy; and Global Business.

Students will learn to:

  • Develop an enthusiasm for studying business
  • Gain an holistic understanding of business in a range of contexts
  • Develop a critical understanding of organisations and their ability to meet society’s needs and wants
  • Understand that business behaviour can be studied from a range of perspectives
  • Generate enterprising and creative approaches to business opportunities, problems and issues
  • Be aware of the ethical dilemmas and responsibilities faced by organisations and individuals
  • Acquire a range of relevant business and generic skills, including decision making, problem solving, the challenging of assumptions and critical analysis
  • Apply numerical skills in a range of business contexts.
A Level Business Overview

Exam Overview

The Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Business qualification consists of four externally examined units. The International Advanced Level consists of the two IAS units (Unit 1 and 2) and two IA2 units (Unit 3 and 4).

Duration

AS Level: 2 units of 2 hours each A Level: 4 units of 2 hours each

Components

AS Level: 2 units of 80 marks each A Level: 4 units of 80 marks each

Format

External assessment offered three times a year for each of the four units.

Progression and Prerequisites

Progression

  • Higher education courses such as business management, business administration, accountancy and finance, human resource management, marketing, retail management, tourism management, international business
  • A wide range of careers, ranging from banking, sales, product management and general management to working in public sector organisations and charities.

Recommended Prerequisites

Students who would benefit most from studying these qualifications are likely to have a qualification in a numerate subject such as an International GCSE in Mathematics. A qualification in a business-related subject, such as an International GCSE in Business Studies or Commerce would be an advantage, but is not necessary.