Primary, secondary education abroad
This content was developed with active participation of Alison Peacock.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_secondary_education_systems_by_country
- https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/education-rankings-by-country
-
"5th Highest Performing School by A Level results in 2023" – The Telegraph.United KingdomYorkCurrently watching: 7from 13850.00 £ / termApply with documents
-
In 2023 100% of students achieved A*– B grades at A-levelUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 7from 48037.00 £ / yearApply with documents
-
In 2023: 37 IB average, 43 highest point, 100% pass rateSwitzerlandMontreuxCurrently watching: 9from 31010.00 CHF / yearApply with documents
-
In 2023 100% graduates achieved IB DiplomaSwitzerlandGenevaCurrently watching: 8from 27930.00 CHF / yearApply with documents
-
Future graduates of 2024 have already received 5 offers from Oxford and 11 from CambridgeUnited KingdomCoventryCurrently watching: 9from 15999.00 £ / termApply with documents
-
Students are accepted to top-100 universitiesUSALos Angeles, CaliforniaCurrently watching: 8from 78800.00 $ / yearApply with documents
-
In 2022 - 66% of A Level students achieved A* - AUnited KingdomOxfordCurrently watching: 10from 15100.00 £ / termApply with documents
-
One of the most selective schools in the USAUSABoston, MassachusettsCurrently watching: 8from 61950.00 $ / yearApply with documents
-
#1 school in UK and Top-1 worldwide for IB results in 2021United KingdomCardiffCurrently watching: 9from 12650.00 £ / termApply with documents
-
In 2023 - 90% of A Level scores made up A- A*United KingdomOxfordCurrently watching: 6from 48180.00 £ / yearApply with documents
Alternative destinations
Education information
Nowadays, many parents tend to send their children to get primary and secondary education abroad. SMAPSE offers more than 100 best schools and colleges in Europe, the USA, Canada, etc. where students from all over the world can get advanced education. Studying abroad afer grade 7, 8, 9, 10 is a great opportunity to open wide career prospects and get useful international experience.
Primary and secondary education abroad gives strong qualitative knowledge. At European and American schools students are not just listeners, they are fully immersed into educational process. This determines the level of their achievements.
Good command of foreign languages is one of the basic requirements for enrolling and even obtaining a visa, especially at high schools. So, English courses abroad are quite popular. SMAPSE specialists will help you choose mosr appropriate programs - English abroad can be taught by a student of any age.
What are the main features of studying at foreign schools?
After 9th grade, the student has the right to choose a certain number of subjects that coincide with his mindset and ambitions: this will be his personal programme. Before entering university, students pass exams on 3-4 disciplines on one of the programs of the senior classes, for example:
- A-level - the British programme of 16-18 years for high school students, traditionally accepted by all universities in England and a number of countries of the world
- IB (International Baccalaureate) is an international programme for senior students, recognized throughout the world
- BTEC is an analog of A-level, a high school course aimed at more narrow and comprehensive studying of subjects, emphasizing the practical part
- High School Diploma Programme - is studied in the upper grades of the American system, similarly A-Level allows to enter the universities in America and Canada
- GCSE / iGCSE - certificate of completion of a junior high school, taught in institutions with British system.
Actually, after graduating from schools, foreign students choose various kinds of programs and courses abroad. Most popular are preparation courses for entering universities. In addition, all studying programs are focused on studying English: without reliable knowledge of the language, high-quality education is impossible.
If you choose to study abroad after 9th grade, you should be especially sure of the quality of your language proficiency: most likely, nobody will work hard with the student additionally, so he/she should be ready to perceive the material at the level of native speakers. If you doubt the quality of your linguistic preparation, we will pick up suitable preparatory programs for you, so that you can learn English abroad in a short time.
It's important to note that foreign schools and colleges provide not only strong academic preparation, but also pay great attention to development of students' talents in additional subjects such as painting, music, as well as in the most various sports: bicycle, rugby, football, swimming, horse riding, skiing, etc. Among the countries practicing such a system of education can be noted:
You can adress to samples of entrance tests for admission to private schools and colleges abroad , which you can write for free in SMAPSE office, without attending school itself.
Guide to Best Schools Abroad
Many parents are increasingly looking towards top schools abroad, especially private and boarding schools, for their children's education. These schools are not just well-furnished with state-of-the-art facilities like laboratories, reading rooms, music, and sports halls, but they also offer a consistent and high standard of education. Opting for such schools abroad provides students with unique advantages: determining their future educational pathways, specialties, and faculties. Our list of schools, featuring over 100 of the best schools and colleges across Europe, the USA, Canada, and beyond, ensures that international students receive top-notch and progressive education.
Keys Language Features to Schools Abroad
A strong command of foreign languages, particularly English, is crucial for admission into these middle schools abroad. Prospective students are required to present documentation verifying their language proficiency. However, those who might need some brushing up on their language skills have no cause for concern. There are numerous support courses available globally, offering students the chance to improve their English proficiency.
Benefits of Studying in Secondary Schools Abroad
Studying in secondary schools abroad typically spans 11-13 years. For a smoother transition into foreign universities, international students are advised to obtain an international matriculation certificate after completing their course abroad post 9th grade. This approach ensures that by the time they've completed their secondary schooling abroad, they possess a solid knowledge foundation and an impressive level of language proficiency. With this robust preparation, it becomes considerably easier for students to pursue further studies abroad following their 11th-grade year.
Schools Abroad Ranking: Choose the Best for Your Child
For those considering the best schools for their children, our schools abroad ranking can provide invaluable insights, ensuring that every student gets the high-quality education they deserve.
Cost Factors for Schools Abroad
Studying in the top schools abroad comes with its associated costs, which vary based on a number of factors. These can include the school's ranking, the quality of teaching, the selected specialization, and its geographical location, among others.
Tuition Breakdown by Location
-
England:
-
Day schools: £14,000 - £25,000 annually
-
Boarding schools: £32,000 - £40,000 annually
-
-
Switzerland (Europe's Priciest Education Destination):
-
Boarding schools: CHF 60,000 - CHF 90,000 annually
-
Day schools: CHF 20,000 - CHF 50,000 annually
-
-
USA:
-
Boarding schools: Approximately $40,000 - $60,000 annually
-
-
Canada:
-
Boarding programs: $35,000 - $60,000 annually
-
For those on a tighter budget, high-quality education can still be accessed affordably. Countries like France, Italy, Austria, Germany, and even England offer boarding programs where tuition won't exceed 25,000-30,000 euros per year. Our list of schools includes these affordable options.
How much do parents usually spend per year apart from school and living fees?
If the child stays on campus for the holidays, this is usually paid separately, plus pocket money, plus additional EAL (English as a foreign language) classes. In total, approximately £ 150-750 per term.
Why Students Choose Middle Schools Abroad: Top 4 Benefits
Based on feedback from international students, the advantages of attending secondary schools abroad include:
-
Immersion in a new culture: Understanding the language, mindset, and customs of the host country.
-
Opportunities for creativity and sports skill enhancement.
-
Breaking down language barriers through daily interactions.
-
Comprehensive and comfortable preparation for higher education.
Should you have any further queries or need clarity on schools abroad ranking or anything else, the SMAPSE experts are always at your service and ready to assist.
From what age can I send my child to school abroad?
The child has never studied in a foreign school before and has never lived apart from the parents, how to prepare and which school to choose?
What entrance exams are required and is IELTS required?
What pitfalls can there be after receiving an invitation from the school?
Can I enroll in a school if my English level is below the required level?
Is it possible to continue in school to pursue the same hobbies and hobbies that you had before?
How will the child live at school without parents?
We know what the child wants to be in the future, how to choose a school?
Why Students Choose Middle Schools Abroad: Top 4 Benefits
Ranking of the best schools by country: England, USA, Switzerland, Canada, Germany, Spain, Austria, Scotland
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GCSE | General certificate of secondary education | secondary education (non-accomplished) | 14 | 1–2 | A-Levels | 15,000 USD+ |
A-Levels | Advanced level | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
BTEC | Business and Technology Education Board | secondary special education | 14 | 2–3 | University/ work | 15,000 USD+ |
Oxbridge Preparation | Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge | secondary education (accomplished) | 17 | 1 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
International Baccalaureate | International baccalaureate | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 18,000 USD+ |
Foundation/ Pathway Year | Preparatory year | admission to the 1st year of university | 17 | 1 | University | 14,000 USD+ |
NCUK | The Northern consortium | 2 year university | 17,5 | 1 | 2 year University of NCUK | 13,000 USD+ |
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) | Specialized training | - | 14 | optional | optional | 4,000 USD+ |
Academic English | Academic English | Language school | 8 + | 6–12 months | School or University | 8,000 USD+ |
Advantages and disadvantages of English schools
Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|
The opportunity to enter the best universities in England, USA, Canada, Switzerland, Europe, the world | Expensive |
High quality of education and academic standards | Strong workload |
Perfect English after graduation | The need to change the social environment; it takes time to adapt |
Useful contacts | The difficulty of choosing the most suitable school for the child, requires a qualified specialist |
Top 21 boarding colleges in England 2024
1 | Cardiff Sixth Form College |
2 | National Mathematics and Science College |
3 | Abbey College Cambridge |
4 | d'Overbroeck's College |
5 | MPW London |
6 | CATS Cambridge |
7 | Kensington Park |
8 | DLD London |
9 | King's College St Michael’s |
10 | Bellerbys Cambridge |
11 | Chelsea Independent College |
12 | MPW Cambridge |
13 | Bellerbys Brighton |
14 | CATS London |
15 | St Clare's Oxford |
16 | Bishopstrow College |
17 | CATS Canterbury |
18 | Bellerbys London |
19 | Ealing Independent College |
20 | Cambridge Tutors College |
21 | Abbey Manchester |