- Live seminars and document skills workshops
- Full access to source packs, historiography summaries, and structured notes
- Discussion-based classes to develop argumentation
- Recorded lessons for flexible learning and revision
- Regular essays and personalised tutor feedback
International A-Level History
Understand the Past — Interpret the Future
Cambridge International A Level History (9489) helps students develop a deep knowledge of significant historical events, an understanding of historical concepts, and the skills to evaluate different interpretations. By studying diverse regions and periods, learners strengthen their critical thinking, analytical writing, and research skills — essential for university and career success.
STUDY A-LEVEL
HISTORY WITH US
Internationally Recognised Qualification
Based on the Cambridge International syllabus (9489), respected by top universities globally.
Critical Thinking and Evaluation Skills
Analyse historical evidence, construct arguments, and interpret competing views of the past.
Fully Online Delivery
Study with live lessons, recorded sessions, expert feedback, and independent learning support.
Flexible Study Options
Choose between European, American, and International History topics — all designed for global relevance.
WHAT
You’ll Learn
Students select one regional option:
Modern Europe
The Industrial Revolution
French Revolution
German unification
Russian Revolution
The History of the USA
Civil War
Reconstruction
Progressive Era
Great Depression
International History
Imperialism
League of Nations
Rise of Japan
China 1912–45
Analyse historical documents (Paper 1)
Explore major periods thematically and comparatively (Paper 2)
Note: Topics rotate yearly for Paper 1 and Paper 2, ensuring variety and depth.
For full A Level, students also study:
The origins of the First World War
The Holocaust
The origins and development of the Cold War
European History
Mussolini’s Italy
Stalin’s Russia
Hitler’s Germany
Britain 1919–39
The USA 1944–92 (domestic and foreign policy)
Cold War dynamics
Decolonisation in Africa
Conflict in the Middle East
Asia 1945–91
Focus: understanding how historians interpret and represent the past. Students engage in deeper thematic studies, using both evidence and historical debate.
HOW
We Teach
Skills You Will Develop
Critical source analysis and historiography
Structured, evidence-based essay writing
Synthesis of different perspectives
Research, evaluation, and independent thinking
Understanding causation, change, continuity, significance, and interpretation
Who Is This Course For?
This course is ideal for students who:
Are aged 16–19 and passionate about understanding people, societies, and global events
Plan to study History, Law, Politics, International Relations, Journalism, or Education at university
Wish to develop critical research, writing, and evaluation skills
Enjoy analysing different interpretations of historical events
University Pathways
A Level History is an excellent preparation for degrees in:
History and International History
Law and Legal Studies
Politics and International Relations
Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)
Journalism and Media Studies
Sociology and Anthropology
Education and Cultural Studies
Career Pathways
Studying A Level History can lead to careers in:
Law, Diplomacy, Journalism, Public Policy, Government, Heritage and Museums, Teaching, Research, Publishing, Consultancy, International Organisations, and more.
Employers highly value the ability to think critically, argue persuasively, and understand complex problems.
Quick Facts
Qualification
Cambridge International A Level History (9489)
Duration
2 years (AS + A2)
Format
100% online (live and recorded learning)
Assessment
4 written exams (no coursework)
Start Dates
September / January
Recommended Background
IGCSE History or strong reading and writing skills
University Pathways
History, Law, Politics, International Relations, Journalism, Humanities
Assessment
Overview
AS Level
Paper 1: Document Question (1h 15min)
- One document-based question (40 marks) — primary source evaluation.
Paper 2: Outline Study (1h 45min)
- Two structured essay questions (60 marks) — thematic analysis.
Each paper contributes 50% of AS Level (and 20% and 30% respectively to full A Level).
AS Level Assessment
Paper 3: Interpretations Question (1h 15min)
- One essay evaluating historians' interpretations (40 marks).
Paper 4: Depth Study (1h 45min)
- Two thematic essay questions from a chosen depth study (60 marks).
Each paper contributes 20% and 30% respectively to the full A Level.
Assessment Routes
Students may:
- Take AS Level only (Papers 1 and 2)
- Take Staged A Level (AS in Year 1, complete A2 in Year 2 with Papers 3 and 4)
- Take Full A Level in a single examination series