The standard UK school curriculum offers some of the most well-recognised qualifications in the world. Taught in a number of countries as well as the UK itself, this school pathway is built up of two sets of qualifications that form the traditional route to UK university study. 

GCSEs / iGCSEs

GCSEs or iGCSEs generally take two years to complete and are subject-specific. Students can study between four and thirteen GCSEs or iGCSEs at any one time, with each qualification requiring examinations or assessments to be completed at the end of the two years. 

A-Levels

Following on from GCSEs or iGCSEs, students can study for A-Levels (Advanced Levels). A-Levels are also subject-specific qualifications, with the content of these courses becoming more advanced and challenging that GCSE-level. Students usually sit for between two and four A-Levels at a given time, and each qualification usually takes around 2 years to complete. At A-Level, assessments and examinations can be spread across the two years, although this depends on which specific qualification is being studied.

The UK school curriculum can be studied in a range of settings – at day schools, boarding schools, or private sixth form colleges. Every institution is unique, which is why it’s important to seek advice on which school pathway is right for you. From single-sex and co-ed classes to selective and non-selective institutions, there are also schools that specialise in certain subjects like sport, STEM, or the arts. Scholarship opportunities might also be available. 

To learn more about school opportunities in the UK and elsewhere around the world, get in touch with the Study Now team today. From study options to scholarship and sponsorship awards – we’ve got all of the information you need to make a stress-free decision about your future.