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International A Level Business IAS / IAL

Pearson Edexcel – Qualification Codes: WBS11/WBS12 (IAS), WBS13/WBS14 (IAL)

Why Study This Course?

The Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Business offers students the opportunity to explore real-world business environments and develop essential skills for entrepreneurship, management, and global commerce. The course provides a holistic understanding of business functions, decision-making, and strategy, making it ideal for students aiming for higher education and careers in business, finance, and management.

This course is ideal for students who:

  • Want to develop business acumen, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Enjoy analysing how businesses operate in local, national, and global contexts.
  • Aspire to study Business Management, Economics, Marketing, Finance, or Entrepreneurship at university.
  • Are interested in careers in finance, consulting, retail, human resources, and business development.
  • Wish to gain a globally recognised qualification valued by universities and employers worldwide.

Who is This Course For?

This course is suitable for students who:

  • Have an interest in how businesses function and make strategic decisions.
  • Enjoy studying marketing, finance, management, and economics.
  • Want to develop skills in decision-making, leadership, and financial planning.
  • Aspire to start their own business or work in international corporations.
This course fosters business insight, financial literacy, and strategic thinking, essential for higher education and professional careers in business, finance, and management.

1. Financial and Strategic Decision-Making

  • Understanding investment appraisal, profitability ratios, and financial forecasting.
  • Analysing cost structures, pricing strategies, and budgeting methods.
  • Applying business theories to case studies and real-world scenarios.

2. Leadership, Communication, and Management Skills

  • Developing interpersonal and negotiation skills for business leadership.
  • Understanding team dynamics, motivation techniques, and organisational structures.
  • Analysing business ethics, corporate governance, and leadership styles.

3. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

  • Evaluating business performance through data interpretation and market analysis.
  • Understanding how external factors like government policies and economic shifts impact businesses.
  • Using business models to predict trends and make informed decisions.

The course assesses students based on the following objectives:

Objective Description Weighting
AO1 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of business concepts 23.8%
AO2 Apply knowledge and understanding in business contexts 23.8%
AO3 Analyse business issues, showing causes and consequences 23.8%
AO4 Evaluate evidence to make informed business decisions 23.8%

Strong Preparation for A-Level and Beyond

This course provides a solid foundation for degree-level study in Business, Economics, Finance, and Management.

Recognition by Top Universities

The Pearson Edexcel International A-Level in Business is widely recognised by universities, employers, and business schools worldwide.

Development of Entrepreneurial and Strategic Thinking

Students develop problem-solving, financial management, and decision-making skills, which are essential in business leadership and start-ups.

Course Structure

The qualification consists of four externally assessed written papers, divided into two levels:

International Advanced Subsidiary (IAS) – Equivalent to AS Level

Unit 1: Marketing and People (IAS – 25%)

Exam Duration

2 hours

Assessment Format

External written examination

Topics Covered

  • Meeting Customer Needs – Understanding consumer demands and market research.
  • The Market – Market segmentation, positioning, and competitive advantage.
  • Marketing Strategy – Product life cycles, branding, pricing, and distribution.
  • Managing People – Recruitment, training, motivation, and leadership styles.
  • Entrepreneurs and Business Start-ups – Characteristics of successful entrepreneurs.

Unit 2: Managing Business Activities (IAS – 25%)

Exam Duration

2 hours

Assessment Format

External written examination

Topics Covered

  • Business Finance – Raising finance, financial planning, and cash flow management.
  • Managing Business Operations – Production methods, quality control, and efficiency.
  • Resource Management – Workforce planning and operational decision-making.
  • External Influences on Business – Economic trends, legislation, and competition.

International Advanced Level (IAL) – Full A-Level

Unit 3: Business Decisions and Strategy (IA2 – 25%)

Exam Duration

2 hours

Assessment Format

External written examination

Topics Covered

  • Corporate Objectives and Business Strategy – Long-term planning and competitive positioning.
  • Business Growth – Mergers, acquisitions, and expansion strategies.
  • Decision-making Techniques – Market research, investment appraisal, and risk assessment.
  • Assessing Competitiveness – Financial analysis, productivity, and corporate culture.
  • Managing Change – Business transformation and strategic decision-making.

Unit 4: Global Business (IA2 – 25%)

Exam Duration

2 hours

Assessment Format

External written examination

Topics Covered

  • Globalisation and International Markets – The role of multinational corporations.
  • Trade and Market Entry Strategies – Exporting, franchising, and joint ventures.
  • Global Marketing – Branding, consumer behaviour, and localisation strategies.
  • Ethical and Cultural Considerations – Corporate social responsibility and sustainability.