<P> The newly introduced GCE Applied A-level suite, taken from the old VCE A Levels, generally has a more vocational twist . For example, the new GCE A-level in Applied Business combines the traditional theory - based subject' Business Studies' (which can be studied as an A-level itself) and adds a more practical and hands - on approach to it . In this case, for the mandatory modules in the AS year, the candidate is expected to create a simulated Marketing Proposal (module 1) and Recruitment and motivational package (module 2) as opposed to just studying the processes . This essentially asks the candidate to show a more thorough insight by actually applying the theory . Given that many universities have shown a dislike of vocational subjects as opposed to the traditional ones, their reaction to the new applied suite remains to be seen . However, considering the subject is now much broader and more "student - friendly" it is hoped that universities will see that this subject is no less than the traditional Business Studies given that the traditional aspect of the subject is not fully lost . The new GCE Applied A Levels are available in: Art and Design, ICT, Business, Science, and Health and Social care . </P> <P> The number of A-level exams taken by students can vary . A typical route is to study four subjects at AS level and then drop down to three at A2 level, although some students continue with their fourth subject . Three is usually the minimum number of A Levels required for university entrance, with some universities specifying the need for a fourth AS subject . There is no limit set on the number of A Levels one can study, and a number of students take five or more A Levels . It is permissible to take A Levels in languages one already speaks fluently, or courses with overlapping content, even if not always fully recognized by universities . </P> <P> The pass grades for A Levels are, from highest to lowest, A *, A, B, C, D and E. The process to decide these grades involves the uniform mark scheme (UMS). Under this scheme, four - module A levels have a maximum mark of 400 UMS (or 200 UMS each for AS and A2), and six - module A levels have a maximum mark of 600 (or 300 UMS each for AS and A2). The maximum UMS within AS and A2 may be split unequally between each modules . For example, a Physics AS may have two exam modules worth 90 UMS and 150 UMS, and a coursework module worth 60 UMS . The' raw marks' i.e. actual score received on a test may differ from UMS awarded . On each assignment, the correspondence of raw marks to UMS is decided by setting grade boundaries, a process which involves consultation by subject experts and consideration of statistics, aiming to keep standards for each grade the same year on year . Achieving less than 40% results in a U (unclassified). For passing grades, 40% corresponds to an E grade, 50% a D, 60% a C, 70% a B, and 80% an A . The A * grade was introduced in 2010 and is awarded to candidates who average 80% UMS across all modules, with a score over 90% UMS in all A2 modules . In Mathematics, which comprises six 100 UMS modules, only the C3 and C4 modules count towards this requirement . In Further Mathematics and Additional Further Mathematics, where more than three A2 modules can be taken, the three best - scoring A2 modules count . There is no A * grade at AS level . </P> <P> Recent research and the corresponding findings have shown that over a time span of several years students from Northern Ireland would outperform students from England and Wales in A-level examinations . </P>

When was the a* introduced at a level