GCE (General Certificate of Education) qualifications are also known as A levels, which stands for Advanced level. They are usually taken by 16- to 19-year-olds, but they can be taken by students at any age. A full GCE (A level) is usually taken over two years but may be taken over one year.
GCEs are at Level 3 in the National Qualifications Framework, and carry UCAS points. They are the main entry requirements for progression to higher education, and are also required for some jobs. All GCE specifications have been updated and replaced. The new GCEs have been available for first teaching from September 2008.