Do I Have to Sit Exams to Get Into Ashbourne? What Are the Entry Requirements?
If you are considering applying to Ashbourne College, it is completely normal to wonder what the admissions process involves. A common question we receive is whether applicants are required to sit exams before being offered a place.
The answer is yes. All applicants complete academic assessments as part of the admissions process. These assessments help us understand your current academic level, ensure that you are applying for the right subjects, and determine what support you may need to succeed. At Ashbourne, our goal is always to set students up for success from the very beginning of their A-level journey.
Year 12 Entry
Students applying to begin their A-level studies in Year 12 will complete a series of assessments. These vary depending on the subjects you intend to study.
All applicants take part in a written task to assess their academic thinking. If you are applying for English Literature, you will complete an English-based assessment. This task is designed to evaluate your reading comprehension, writing ability, and analytical skills. It is not a test of how many books you have read, but of how well you can respond to texts and express your ideas clearly and thoughtfully.
If you are applying for any other subjects, you will complete a Critical Thinking task. This is a written activity that does not require specific subject knowledge. Instead, it focuses on how you organise your ideas, approach new problems, and express yourself in writing. The aim is to understand how you think, not just what you already know.
In addition to the Critical Thinking task, students applying for Mathematics, any of the Sciences, Psychology, or Economics will complete a Maths Diagnostic Test. This test is designed to assess whether you have the core mathematical knowledge and skills needed to succeed in these subjects. You do not need to be perfect, but you should have a solid foundation in algebra, number, and data handling.
If you are applying for Further Mathematics, you will also complete a more advanced Maths Aptitude Test. This allows us to assess your ability to cope with the greater pace and complexity of Further Mathematics, which is significantly more demanding than standard A-level Maths.
Some subjects have additional requirements:
Music applicants may be asked to complete a short theory test, typically at or below grade five level.
Art and Design applicants must submit a small portfolio of recent work for review. This helps our team assess your creativity, skill, and potential.
Drama applicants will be invited to attend an audition. This provides an opportunity to demonstrate performance ability and discuss your experience and interest in the subject.
These subject-specific assessments help us understand your preparation and enthusiasm for your chosen courses and allow us to place you in an environment where you can succeed.
Year 13 Entry
Students wishing to transfer directly into Year 13 are assessed slightly differently. Because you will be entering the second year of the A-level course, it is essential that your current knowledge matches the expectations of that level.
You will be asked to complete an AS-level paper in each of your intended subjects. These assessments are based on the first-year A-level curriculum and help us determine how much of the content you have already covered, what areas may need review, and how we can best support your transition.
In some cases, students may also be asked to attend a subject interview to discuss their previous studies and future goals.
One-Year A-level Retake Programmes
Students applying for a one-year A-level retake course will usually be asked to complete assessments in the subjects they wish to retake. These are designed to evaluate your current knowledge and readiness to take on an intensive, fast-paced programme.
We will also review your previous A-level results. In general, applicants are expected to have achieved at least a grade C in the subject they want to retake. This is to ensure that a one-year retake is a realistic option and that the improvement required to reach your university or personal goal is achievable within the time frame.
In some cases, a short interview may be arranged to discuss your motivation, study habits, and readiness for the demands of the one-year format.
Final Thought
At Ashbourne, every applicant completes an academic assessment as part of the admissions process. These assessments are not designed to exclude students, but to understand each applicant’s strengths, identify areas where support may be needed, and ensure the best possible match between student and subject.
Whether you are joining in Year 12, transferring into Year 13, retaking your A-levels, or applying for a creative subject like Music, Art, or Drama, the purpose of the admissions process is always the same, to give you the right tools, the right structure, and the right support for success.
Ashbourne is committed to helping each student thrive, and it starts by making sure you are placed in the course and environment where you can do exactly that.
1. Do I have to sit exams to get into Ashbourne College?
Yes, all applicants complete academic assessments as part of the admissions process. These tests help us understand your current academic level, ensure subject suitability, and identify any support you may need to succeed at Ashbourne.
2. What are the entry requirements for Year 12 at Ashbourne?
Year 12 applicants sit a written task and subject-specific assessments depending on their chosen A-levels. Students applying for Maths, Sciences, Psychology, or Economics also complete a Maths Diagnostic Test, while creative subjects such as Music, Art, and Drama may require a portfolio, audition, or theory test.
3. What are the entry requirements for Year 13 transfer students?
If you wish to join Ashbourne in Year 13, you will complete AS-level papers in your intended subjects. These assessments confirm that your knowledge matches the second-year A-level curriculum and ensure a smooth transition.
4. Do creative subjects like Art, Drama, or Music have different entry requirements?
Yes. Music applicants may be asked to take a short theory test, Art students must submit a portfolio, and Drama students attend an audition. These assessments allow us to understand your skill, creativity, and passion for the subject.