How does the programme work?

There are three main aspects to the Levelling Up: Chemistry programme:

1. Academic tuition with high-quality materials designed to help students supplement their A-level studies, whilst stretching and challenging their knowledge of Chemistry.
2. Mentoring to help students gain an understanding of the process of applying to and studying Chemistry at University.
3. Insights into the academic community of Chemistry departments across the country so that students know what to expect after A-level studies.

Sessions occur in groups of 5 - 8 at regular intervals throughout Year 12 and 13 with an assigned tutor and mentor.

Partner Universities

Durham University are proud to form the National Hub for Levelling Up: Chemistry, with Imperial College London, the University of Birmingham, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Nottingham all running the programme, and more information about the programme that each University offers can be found below.

Potential University partners should contact levelling.up@durham.ac.uk to find out more about how to get involved.

Levelling Up: Chemistry - Short Programme

We are pleased announce the launch of the Levelling Up: Chemistry - Short Programme aimed at University Chemistry departments who have an A-level entry requirement of grade B or lower.

Please visit this page for more information.

Where can I apply for Levelling Up: Chemistry?

The 2025-2026 cohort of the programme is taking place at the following Universities. Please refer to each University's website for more details on how to apply.

Who can apply for Levelling Up: Chemistry?

Applicants must be Year 12 students who are studying Chemistry A-level (or equivalent) (and for some institutions, Chemistry and Maths A-levels, or equivalent) and are considering studying Chemistry at University. 

Places on the programme are highly sought-after, and each partner University details their own eligibility and selection criteria to determine which participants they feel would benefit most from the programme.

Each University's eligibility criteria can be found using the links below:

• Durham University - eligibility criteria
• Imperial College London - eligibility criteria (under 'Applicant Information')
• University of Birmingham - eligibility criteria (under 'Key Benefits for the Participants')
• Sheffield Halllam University - eligibility criteria (under 'Am I eligible to take part?')
• University of Nottingham - eligibility criteria (under 'Application criteria')