GCSE in England UK for international students
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"5th Highest Performing School by A Level results in 2023" – The Telegraph.United KingdomYorkCurrently watching: 9from 16532.00 £ / termApply with documents
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In 2023 100% of students achieved A*– B grades at A-levelUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 8from 48037.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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In 2022 - 66% of A Level students achieved A* - AUnited KingdomOxfordCurrently watching: 8from 15665.00 £ / termApply with documents
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#1 school in UK and Top-1 worldwide for IB results in 2021United KingdomCardiffCurrently watching: 9from 12650.00 £ / termApply with documents
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In 2023 - 90% of A Level scores made up A- A*United KingdomOxfordCurrently watching: 8from 50588.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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Top school in the UK at A Level during the past eleven yearsUnited KingdomCardiffCurrently watching: 7from 46400.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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In 2023, the average IB score was 38.0United Kingdomnear LondonCurrently watching: 7from 14451.00 £ / termApply with documents
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In 2023 – 37.5% of A-level students achieved A* - A.United KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 8from 12300.00 £ / termApply with documents
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55% of A Level students achieved A*- A results among top UK schools in 2023United KingdomCambridgeCurrently watching: 9from 50085.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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75% of our A-Level students achieved A*-A in 2022United KingdomCanterburyCurrently watching: 10from 48450.00 £ / yearApply with documents
Alternative destinations
Education information
General Certificate of Secondary Education is a British program of middle school, finalizing mandatory stage of education. The program is designed for the foreign students aged 14-16 years old. During 2 years of studying, the students master compulsory and elective subjects, after which they pass exams and receive a GCSE certificate. High grades allow graduates to continue their studies in pre-university educational programs (A-Level or IB), and then enter universities all over the world.
GCSE in the UK for schoolchildren will be a great start in an educational journey in new country. The high quality of the program and its prestige guarantee further successful study in England and becomes the key to fundamental knowledge and confident English.
Studying in the best colleges and schools with GCSE in the UK, the student can choose additional subjects from the professional field in which the student wants to specialize in the future. After receiving a certificate of secondary education, as a high school student, he will continue studying these subjects at A-Level or IB.
The foreign students aged 14 can enroll on GCSE program. Some schools in the UK offer a shortened variant – One Year GCSE, lasting for 1 year, which is available to students aged 15. The content of the program is no different from a two-year course, but it takes place in an intensive mode. Excellent knowledge of English and high grades in academic subjects are required for admission.
The special program IGCSE is available for the foreign students, which has an international status and is maximally adapted to the needs of children from different countries of the world.
GCSE in the UK: full guide
Specifics of Studying for GCSE in the UK GCSE, which stands for General Certificate of Secondary Education, is a rigorous academic program in the UK tailored for students aged 14 to 16. It involves the deep study of 5 to 10 subjects. English and mathematics are universally compulsory, while some schools also mandate science, IT, and English literature. One of GCSE's strengths is the flexibility it offers; students typically select 4-6 subjects themselves, with guidance from teachers, education consultants, and parents. Subject availability can vary based on what individual schools offer and the student's aspirations and interests. Common choices encompass foreign languages, humanities, business courses, and arts.
Upon completion, students sit for exams in each subject to attain their secondary education certificate. Grades range from A* (highest) to G (lowest). A unique feature of traditional GCSE is that coursework quality can influence final grades. In contrast, the IGCSE scores are purely exam-based, with A being the pinnacle, not A*.
For progression to advanced courses like A-level or the International Baccalaureate, a minimum of grade C in 5 subjects is typically needed.
Requirements for admission to GCSE
Enrolment Requirements for GCSE Schools in the UK For international students aspiring to join a two-year GCSE program, the age requirement is 14, and for a condensed one-year course, 15. Moreover, applicants should:
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Present academic reports from the last 2-3 years.
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Demonstrate English language proficiency.
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Undergo tests in specific subjects like chemistry, physics, and biology.
The exact subjects and pass marks can vary by school. It's worth noting that one-year GCSE programs often have stricter English proficiency requirements than their two-year counterparts.
To optimize chances of GCSE success, starting English immersion early—around age 7 or 8—is recommended. This can involve language courses, tutors, visits to England, and exposure to English media. Alternatively, summer programs in UK language schools can be beneficial for honing English skills and gaining familiarity with British culture.
A year prior to enrolment, it's crucial to gear up for entrance exams and accustom oneself to the UK's education system, often involving tailored study programs and mock interviews.
Top GCSE Schools in the UK
- Queen Ethelburga's College
- Abbey DLD College London
- CATS College Canterbury
- Mount Mill Hill
- Sevenoaks School.
What do parents consider first when looking for a school in the UK?
Think about which school is perfect for your child. Different schools offer different specialties – someone is strong in art, drama, sports, certain subjects. There are selective schools, and more loyal ones, which are ready to develop any strong side of each child. If parents don't know much about the UK education system, you can focus on the league table and the results of the GCSE and A-level exams. If you are already more "savvy", consider the location and size of the school, the number of students, the availability of an EAL course, compliance with your personal academic requirements, additional activities.
Cost and fees to study GCSE in UK
Understanding the GCSE Framework: The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is a qualification taken by students aged 14 to 16 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It's a fundamental academic milestone, often determining the A-level subjects or vocational courses a student may pursue afterward. As with most educational programs, understanding the associated costs is essential for prospective students and their guardians.
State Schools vs. Independent Schools: In the UK, the majority of students take their GCSEs in state-funded schools, where tuition is free. However, examination fees might still apply. These fees can range depending on the exam board and the subject, but for those in state education, these costs are usually covered by the school. On the other hand, independent (private) schools charge tuition fees, which can vary widely. These fees typically range from £10,000 to £30,000 per annum, though top-tier schools, especially those with boarding facilities, can charge even more. It's important to note that in most private schools, the tuition fee often includes GCSE examination costs.
Additional Costs: Whether in a state or private school, there can be additional costs associated with studying for GCSEs. This can include textbooks, revision guides, field trips, equipment for particular subjects (e.g., Art or Design Technology), and uniforms. Some schools provide these materials as part of their offering, while in others, students might need to purchase them separately.
External Candidates: For various reasons, some students opt to take their GCSEs as external candidates, either through distance learning providers or as private candidates at exam centers. In these cases, the examination fees are a direct cost to the student or their guardians. The costs can range based on the exam board, but fees typically lie between £30 to £200 per subject. This can be more expensive if the subject requires additional components like coursework moderation.
Financial Assistance: For those studying in independent schools, there are often scholarships, bursaries, or other financial aid options available. These are based on merit, need, or both, and they can significantly offset the costs associated with GCSE studies. It's always recommended to inquire and apply early for such opportunities.
In conclusion, the costs associated with GCSE studies in the UK can vary depending on the type of institution, the specific needs of the subject, and any additional support materials required. While state education provides a largely cost-free route, those considering independent schools or external routes should be aware of and plan for the associated fees.
What are GCSEs?
How many subjects are usually included in a GCSE exam?
How long does GCSE preparation take?
What are GCSEs with External Assessment?
What are GCSEs with Internal Assessment?
What is Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level?
Can I take GCSE exams if I don't live in the UK?
What should I do if I have a problem in my GCSE exam?
What preparatory courses are available for international students wishing to take GCSEs?
Can I use my GCSE results to apply to university abroad?
Best boarding schools in England by GCSE 2024
# | A + A* % | Name | Day/Board | Boy/Girl | Day £ | Board £ |
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1 | 98.61 | Westminster School | Both | Co-ed (Boys Only 13 - 16) | 31,491 | 41,607 |
2 | 97.60 | Wycombe Abbey School | Boarding | Girls | 30,270 | 40,350 |
3 | 96.66 | St Paul's School | Both | Boys | 25,908 | 38,991 |
4 | 94.97 | St Mary's School - Ascot | Both | Girls | 28,590 | 40,140 |
5 | 93.93 | Brighton College | Both | Co-ed | 25,410 | 50,040 |
6 | 92.98 | Eton College | Boarding | Boys | 42,501 | |
7 | 92.52 | Tonbridge School | Both | Boys | 31,587 | 42,105 |
8 | 90.30 | Cheltenham Ladies' College | Both | Girls | 29,280 | 43,170 |
9 | 87.00 | Sevenoaks School | Both | Co-ed | 27,585 | 42,084 |
10 | 86.95 | Winchester College | Boarding | Boys | 41,709 | |
11 | 86.51 | Abingdon School | Both | Boys | 20,655 | 41,145 |
12 | 84.38 | Concord College | Both | Co-ed | 14,709 | 41,900 |
13 | 83.94 | Dulwich College | Both | Boys | 21,246 | 44,346 |
14 | 83.54 | Downe House School | Both | Girls | 29,115 | 39,150 |
15 | 83.05 | St Catherine's School - Guildford | Both | Girls | 18,375 | 30,285 |
16 | 83.00 | Wellington College | Both | Co-ed | 30,375 | 41,580 |
17 | 82.54 | Radley College | Boarding | Boys | 40,125 | |
18 | 82.00 | St Mary's School - Calne | Both | Girls | 29,745 | 39,885 |
19 | 81.93 | City of London Freemen's School | Both | Co-ed | 19,194 | 32,985 |
20 | 81.71 | Whitgift School | Both | Boys | 20,640 | 40,140 |
21 | 80.91 | St Swithun's School | Both | Girls | 20,976 | 34,776 |
22 | 79.42 | Oundle School | Both | Co-ed | 24,270 | 37,890 |
23 | 79.35 | Chigwell School | Both | Co-ed | 18,885 | 32,985 |
24 | 77.89 | Caterham School | Both | Co-ed | 19,620 | 38,760 |
25 | 77.69 | Benenden School | Boarding | Girls | 39,372 | |
26 | 77.35 | Badminton School | Both | Girls | 16,836 | 38,985 |
27 | 77.08 | Rugby School | Both | Co-ed | 23,088 | 36,798 |
28 | 76.70 | Headington School | Both | Girls | 19,905 | 40,185 |
29 | 76.56 | Burgess Hill Girls | Both | Girls (Co-ed 2 - 4) | 19,800 | 35,550 |
30 | 74.80 | Bishop's Stortford College | Both | Co-ed | 20,532 | 33,402 |
Secondary education in the UK
World Ranking | 1 |
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Foreign students | 20% |
Minimum age | 4 years+ (age 11-14) |
Tuition language | English |
Minimum English level | beginner&higher (depends on the school) |
Tuition cost | £17,000-50,000 |
Cost of living (year) | £10,000-25,000 |
Mandatory subjects | English, Mathematics, Science |
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
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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 |
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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 |