Boys Set to Outperform Girls in Top A-Level Grades This Year, Expert Predicts

The UK’s A-level results are likely to show a small rise in top grades this summer, with boys set to edge further ahead in A* grades. The trend towards maths and economics is driving this shift, as these subjects have become “much higher yielders” of top grades due to their job prospects.

Maths and economics have seen a surge in popularity among students, particularly boys, who are historically more likely to take these quantitative subjects. This has contributed to the gap between boys and girls in terms of top grades. According to Professor Alan Smithers, young people are making decisions based on what will get them a job in an increasingly competitive market.

Provisional entries for maths have increased again this year, marking 13 consecutive years at the top of A-level choices. This trend is set to continue, with Professor Smithers predicting that boys will increase their lead at A*. The data also shows that other quantitative subjects, such as economics, are gaining popularity among students.

However, not all subjects are seeing a rise in popularity among girls. Psychology, biology, and history have seen an increase in provisional entries this year, which may help close the gap between boys and girls in terms of top grades. But it’s unclear how these changes will play out on results day.

The trend towards maths and economics raises questions about the broader implications for education policy. The government has maintained that exam grades are a true reflection of students’ abilities, but Professor Smithers notes that grades can be adjusted by adjusting thresholds. This raises questions about the role of government regulators and exam boards in setting grades.

Northern Ireland is likely to continue having the best results compared to England and Wales, according to Professor Smithers. This raises questions about why this should be the case and whether there’s a need for greater investment in education in other parts of the UK.

The A-level results will also shed light on another trend: the gap between boys and girls at A*. The increase in maths entries among boys is likely to widen this gap further, according to Professor Smithers. The 2026 results will be closely watched by policymakers, educators, and students themselves, as they seek answers about what these trends mean for the future of education in the UK.

The Department for Education has maintained that exam grades are a true reflection of students’ abilities, but Professor Smithers notes that grades can be adjusted by adjusting thresholds. This raises questions about the role of government regulators and exam boards in setting grades.

As we await the 2026 results, one thing is clear: the education landscape in the UK is changing rapidly. The question remains what next? Will policymakers respond to these trends by making changes to A-levels and university admissions, or will they stick with the status quo, hoping that things will eventually right themselves?