Pakistan-origin student shatters A-Level records

Mahnoor Cheema, an 18-year-old British-Pakistani student, has made history by achieving top distinction in 24 A-Level subjects—setting multiple world records in the process.

Cheema broke the world record for the most A-Level subjects passed with distinction—24 in total—alongside an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Remarkably, she completed them all in a single exam cycle without retaking any components to improve her scores. She also holds the second record for the highest number of A* and A grades at A-Level, earning 19 top marks.

In a third combined record, Mahnoor accumulated an unprecedented 45 A* grades—11 from A-Levels and 34 from her GCSEs/O-Levels. This sets a new global benchmark for the highest number of A* grades awarded to a student in secondary education. Her fourth combined record is for the most individual subjects passed with distinction—58 in total—combining her 24 A-Levels and 34 GCSEs.

Born in Lahore to Barrister Usman Cheema and Tayyaba Cheema, Mahnoor moved to the UK in 2006 when her parents pursued higher studies at Lincoln’s Inn and SOAS. After attending two London schools, she switched to homeschooling for her final year. She attributes her success to her parents’ sacrifices and support.

“This isn’t just my achievement—it belongs to my parents,” Mahnoor said in an interview. “Leaving your country and family behind for a better future and educational opportunities for your children is the biggest sacrifice one can make. I’m incredibly grateful to them.”

Beyond academics, Mahnoor is active in extracurriculars and volunteers weekly at a hospital. She has secured a place at the University of Oxford, where she will begin studying medicine this October.

“Oxford has always been my dream,” she said. “I never imagined myself at any other university.”

In 2023, Mahnoor also passed 34 GCSE subjects, including a record 17 A* grades in Year 10 alone—setting her fifth and sixth world records.

Reflecting on her daughter’s accomplishments, her father proudly referred to her as the “daughter of the Pakistani nation.”

“She has doubled the joy of August 14 for the entire country,” he said.