UK EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM

The UK educational system is divided into primary education, secondary education, further education and higher education.

Primary school (Reception to Year 6) is for children from 4 years of age to age of 10, secondary education (Year 7 to Year 11) starts from the age of 11. At the age of 14 the child starts GCSE course, and at age of 16 the child chooses 4 subjects for A-level programme (Year 12 and Year 13).

GCSE 2 Year Standard Programme

GCSE programme is two years of secondary education (Year 10 and Year 11) when students study between 9 and 12 subjects. Some of them are compulsory (English, Math, Sciences, History, Geography, a Modern Language etc.), some are chosen by each student according to their abilities and preferences. At the end of the 2 year GCSE programme, students pass exam on each subjects and receive their GCSE Certificates (General Certificate of Secondary Education).

1 Year GCSE Programme

Some schools offer a 1 Year GCSE programme in Year 11 for international students seeking a school education in the UK. These intensive, one year courses, are available for students aged 15 plus, with the appropriate academic level from their own country. Fewer subjects are studied (maximum 6)

IGCSE Programme

The IGCSE programme ( International General Certificate of Secondary Education) prepare international students for A-Level and/or IB.

Students study between 5 and 7 subjects, English, Maths and Science being included. Each school has a list of available subjects for IGCSE students. At the end of Year 11, students take exams in each studied subject and receive IGCSE Certificates.

A-level programme (Advanced level qualification - Year 12 and Year 13) is a subject-based qualification conferred as part of the General Certificate of Education that can lead to university, further study, training, or work.

University

Each course, and most universities and colleges, have different requirements – usually a mix of qualifications, subjects, or exam grades. They set the entry requirements for each course to ensure the student has the right skills and knowledge to successfully complete the course. UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) is a UK-based organisation whose main role is to operate the application process for British universities.

University Foundation Course

International students can take one year foundation programme, instead of A levels or IB. A foundation year is essentially just an extra year at the beginning of a university course. It helps prepare those who aren’t quite ready to study for a full degree. In the end of year, the student will receive The International Foundation Certificate (IFC).