How Hard Is A Level Psychology? A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Your Child

by Yum Yum Mama Team August 8, 2025

If you're asking yourself, “how hard is A Level Psychology?”, chances are your child is finding it a challenge—and you’re not alone. While Psychology is one of the most popular A Level subjects in the UK, it's often misunderstood. Many students start the course expecting to learn about human behaviour in a fun and engaging way—only to find themselves buried in research methods, 16-mark essays, and a mountain of studies to memorise.

So, is a Level in Psychology hard? The short answer: yes, but with the right support, it doesn't have to be.

Why Students Struggle with A Level Psychology

From the outside, Psychology may seem easier than subjects like Maths or Chemistry. But when the assessments roll around, students are often shocked by just how technical and analytical it is.

Common struggles include:

Learning complex theories and terminology
Writing well-structured 16-mark essays under timed conditions
Mastering AO1, AO2, and AO3 skills (knowledge, application, and evaluation)
Navigating confusing research methods and statistics
Keeping up with exam content across all three AQA papers

It’s no surprise many parents search online:
“Is it easy to get an A in A Level Psychology?” or
“Is Psychology considered an easy A Level?”

In reality, it’s not. But it is achievable with the right structure and teaching approach—like the one we use at TuitionLab: Psychology.

Introducing TuitionLab: Psychology Academy

Starting September 2025, our online term-time Psychology Academy offers weekly support tailored specifically for students studying AQA A Level Psychology.

✅ Weekly live Zoom lessons
✅ Clear breakdown of exam topics
✅ Personalised feedback and homework
✅ 16-mark essay planning and improvement
✅ Exam skills embedded into every session
✅ FREE diagnostic call for families
✅ FREE trial lesson for the student

During the diagnostic appointment, we chat with a parent/guardian about your child’s needs and challenges, and book your child into a free trial lesson to experience the support first-hand.

👉 Book your free diagnostic session here

Is A Level Psychology Harder Than Maths?

A common question we hear is: "Is A Level Psychology harder than Maths?"

They’re very different subjects. While Maths relies heavily on procedural problem-solving, Psychology demands long-form writing, evaluation, and critical thinking. In fact, many students who excel in Maths struggle with the essay structure in Psychology—and vice versa.

The key to success in Psychology is:

Understanding the theories, not just memorising them
Practising timed essays regularly
Getting regular feedback to refine skills

We provide this structure week after week at TuitionLab, building exam confidence and academic resilience.

Is A Level Psychology Worth It?

Absolutely—when taught well.

Psychology builds transferable skills: critical thinking, analysis, argument construction, and even statistics. It's respected by universities and pairs well with science, humanities, and health-related subjects.

If your child is struggling right now, that doesn’t mean they should drop the subject. It may just mean they need a different kind of support—like our topic-by-topic teaching and expert tutor guidance.

👉 Read how other families found success

Learn More with These Helpful Articles:

External Resource for Parents

Want to explore what the AQA exam board officially expects?
➡️ AQA A Level Psychology Specification – Clear breakdown of units, objectives, and assessment format.

Final Word: Support That Works

If your child is overwhelmed by A Level Psychology, don’t wait until revision season to seek help. A little support now can mean the difference between a C and an A.

✅ Book a free 30-minute diagnostic call
✅ Get your child enrolled in a free trial Psychology lesson
✅ Join a growing community of families who trust TuitionLab

👉 Book now

Let’s make Psychology feel manageable—and even enjoyable—for your child again.