Choosing the right A Level combinations can make your studies more enjoyable and strengthen your UCAS application. Politics pairs brilliantly with essay-based subjects, but it also benefits from quantitative or language options depending on your goals.

Below is a practical guide to popular pairings, why they work, and example combinations for different university pathways.

Best Subjects to Combine with A Level Politics

• History — Excellent for developing argument, using evidence, and understanding context. A classic route for Politics, International Relations and PPE-style applications.
• Law — Complements topics like rights, constitutions and the judiciary; ideal for students considering Law, Politics, or related social sciences at university.
• Economics — Adds a policy and data dimension (public finance, markets, government intervention). Great for PPE, Economics & Politics, or Public Policy pathways.
• Sociology — Pairs well for social policy, voting behaviour and political participation; strong for Politics, Sociology, Criminology or Social Policy degrees.
• Philosophy — Helps with political ideas/ideologies, argumentation and evaluation—useful for Politics, Philosophy & Ethics, or PPE.
• English Literature or English Language — Sharpens writing style, structure and critical reading—perfect for essay-based success and Journalism/Media routes.
• Mathematics (or Statistics) — Balances essay subjects with quantitative reasoning; useful for Economics & Politics, PPE, data-driven policy or analytics pathways.
• Geography — Brings human geography, geopolitics and development into play—good for International Relations, International Development and Environmental Policy.
• Modern Foreign Language (e.g., Spanish, French) — Highly valued for International Relations, Politics and global careers; supports study abroad options.
• Psychology — Useful for understanding behaviour, decision-making and research methods; pairs well for campaigning, public affairs or communications.

Smart Combinations by Future Pathway

• PPE / Economics & Politics: Politics + Economics + Mathematics (or Philosophy).
• Law: Politics + Law + History (or English).
• International Relations: Politics + History + Modern Foreign Language (or Geography/Economics).
• Journalism / Media / Communications: Politics + English (Lit or Lang) + History/Sociology/Media Studies.
• Public Policy / International Development: Politics + Economics + Geography (or MFL).

Balance Workload & Play to Your Strengths

• Essay-heavy trio: Politics + History + English — great for writers/arguers; build strong time management.
• Mixed profile: Politics + Economics + Maths — balances essays with quantitative skills.
• Global focus: Politics + History + MFL — boosts IR applications and international opportunities.

Wondering about difficulty and pacing? See Is A Level Politics hard? and How to prepare for A Level Politics.

FAQs

Do I need GCSE Politics?
No. It isn’t required for A Level Politics. Read: Can I study A Level Politics without GCSE Politics?

Which exam board is best?
We teach AQA. If you’re comparing boards, see AQA vs Edexcel Politics.

Which resources should I use?
Start with our AQA-aligned materials and add: best textbooks & resources for AQA Politics.

Next Steps

Pick subjects that support your goals and play to your strengths—then commit to consistent practice and a strong essay technique. When you’re ready, explore our course and get personalised guidance.