University preparation in England UK for international students
This content was developed with active participation of Sarah Jayne Blakemore.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Education_in_the_United_Kingdom
- https://www.britishcouncil.co.zw/exam/ielts/prepare.
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In 2023 100% of students achieved A*– B grades at A-levelUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 9from 48037.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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55% of A Level students achieved A*- A results among top UK schools in 2023United KingdomCambridgeCurrently watching: 10from 50085.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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75% of our A-Level students achieved A*-A in 2022United KingdomCanterburyCurrently watching: 8from 48450.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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In 2023 - 98% pupils gained places at their first choice UniversityUnited KingdomCambridgeCurrently watching: 6from 17315.00 £ / termApply with documents
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In 2023 - near 66% of A Level students achieved A*- A gradesUnited KingdomNorthamptonCurrently watching: 9from 35500.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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In 2023 results either for IB (33) and A Level (73% - A*-C) are higher than UK averageUnited KingdomBristolCurrently watching: 8from 12850.00 £ / termApply with documents
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In 2023, in University Foundation Programme 50% of students achieved an A*- AUnited KingdomLondonCurrently watching: 7from 56955.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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from 25740.00 £ / yearApply with documents
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Awarding body of University of the Arts London and Trinity College LondonUnited KingdomCambridgeCurrently watching: 10from 14490.00 £ / semesterApply with documents
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In 2023 - near 74% of A Level students achieved A*- C gradesUnited Kingdomnear LondonCurrently watching: 8Apply with documents
Alternative destinations
Education information
Undoubtedly, each student, preparing for final exams at school, looks forward to entering universities in Great Britain. It goes without saying that England is a recognized world leader in high-quality secondary and higher education. There is a great deal of famous scientists, politicians, financiers and artists among essential graduates from prestigious British universities. Nowadays, British universities accept foreign students for education, and our SMAPSE team knows everything about how to be fully prepared for entering university in Great Britain and to get exellent education in England after school.
There are many academic programs in TOP-100 schools and colleges in the UK that are focused on preparation to enter universities in the United Kingdom by improving basic linguistic and academic knowledge. Below we will discuss how to enter the universities in England, as well as required documents for universities in the UK.
Understanding the UK Educational System
The UK's educational framework consists of four main sectors: primary education, secondary education, further education, and higher education. From ages 5 to 16, students undergo primary and secondary education, culminating in their General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE).
The decision post-GCSE is crucial: continue studies or enter the workforce. Those aiming for higher education start their journey by preparing for university in the UK, often through courses such as A-Levels, GNVQ's, or BTEC's. The A-Level course, a two-year program focusing on vocation-related topics, is pivotal. This is largely why UK universities often require international students to undergo additional preparation.
After completing school in another country, students typically need to take specialized university preparation courses to align their education with international norms. These courses empower students to bolster their English proficiency swiftly, recognize and rectify knowledge gaps, and familiarize themselves with the terminology of their desired profession. In the UK, each pre-university program involves an in-depth exploration of 3-5 subjects, culminating in exams.
Navigating University Admissions Post-School in the UK
Many global students and their parents aspire to secure a seat at a prestigious UK university. Currently, UK institutions offer an array of programs from traditional bachelor's degrees to PhDs. A diploma from these institutions often opens vast career avenues.
Securing a spot in these universities, however, has its own set of requirements. A deep command over the English language, usually at an "advanced" level, is imperative. Language courses, including those cataloged by the SMAPSE team, are traditional routes to achieve this.
Yet, linguistic prowess isn't the only requirement. Equalizing one's native education to UK standards is vital, making special university preparation courses essential. The SMAPSE team highly recommends opting for these courses either in the UK's top private boarding/day schools or in the very colleges or universities you aim to attend. Numerous international centers also offer these programs.
For international students, there are three primary pathways:
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Transition from a home country university to a UK one, usually requiring a step back in one's academic year. This involves clearing several subject exams and demonstrating English fluency.
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Complete a university preparation course in the UK and subsequently enroll in the relevant UK university faculty.
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Obtain a specialist diploma or bachelor's degree at home, followed by applying for a master's in the UK.
Undoubtedly, the most efficacious way to secure admission in the UK lies in the specialized programs many universities offer. Potential students need to be fluent in English and must hold a certificate with scores leaning towards "excellent".
With guidance from the SMAPSE experts, international students can choose from the top 100 schools and colleges, where they can undertake preparation courses, ensuring a seamless transition into the UK's elite universities. And when considering the cost of preparing for university in the UK, university preparation course fees can vary, but are often seen as a worthy investment in one's future.
What advice do you have for those who want to go to top universities in the UK?
Carefully consider all the information about the university of interest, including the cost - prices vary greatly, so you need to understand what options you will financially pull. Carefully prepare for tests in English (IELTS in the first place) - this will be needed for admission to any British university. Consider the courses that interest you more than others, and check the academic requirements for them, make sure that you have time to study this area well in your high school.
UK University Preparation for Foreign Students: A Comprehensive Guide
University Prep Courses UK: Foundation Certificate (UFC)
The University Foundation Certificate (UFC) is a prominent university preparation course in the UK tailored for international students. Designed for versatility, the UFC provides an avenue for students to adapt their prior learning to the British academic environment and refine their English proficiency.
Key features of the UFC include:
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Introducing UK teaching methods to international scholars.
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Enhancing existing knowledge in relevant fields.
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Opportunities to immerse in the local academic atmosphere, linguistic setting, and campus life.
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A curated list of disciplines based on specific institution requirements, with both mandatory and elective modules.
Despite its wide recognition, it's notable that elite universities like Cambridge and Oxford have distinct, more elaborate pre-university courses, such as the Pre-U.
Explore TOP-100 institutions offering the UFC program here.
International Diploma Program (IDP)
The IDP, a recent innovation, offers a blend of the Foundation course (UFC) and the first year of an undergraduate program. Intended to enable students from British boarding and day schools to directly enter the second year at a university, this program emphasizes both linguistic mastery and in-depth subject knowledge.
View institutions offering the International Diploma Program here.
A-Level Program
The A-Level program is a two-year curriculum aimed at preparing students for university in the UK. Students delve into up to six core disciplines, with examinations equivalent to matriculation tests. Based on the results, university admissions make decisions on entry, making the A-Level an essential criterion for numerous prestigious British institutions.
Browse educational institutions offering the A-Level program here.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
The IB stands as a universally acknowledged pre-university preparatory program. This two-year curriculum equates international education to the UK standard. Notable for its rigorous standards and objectivity, the IB encompasses both internal evaluations and assessments from external examiners in the UK. A multifaceted program, the IB covers core subjects, a variety of electives, and courses like the Theory of Knowledge and Creativity, Action, Service (CAS).
Check out institutions offering the International Baccalaureate program here.
Pre-Master’s Programme
Ideal for those possessing a bachelor's degree but seeking to improve their English competency for a master’s, this program offers intensive prep for international language examinations. Benefits include:
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Access to higher-ranking British universities.
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Enhanced English proficiency and meeting IELTS master's level requirements.
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Introduction to new academic disciplines for specialization changes.
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Familiarization with the UK academic environment.
Discover educational institutions offering the Pre-master’s program here.
International Year One Programme
This program corresponds to the first year of university education. Successful completion allows students to transition to the second year of a bachelor's program, effectively reducing the cost of preparing for university in the UK and the study duration from four to three years. Designed to bridge the educational gap, many UK universities offer this to ensure a smoother transition for international students.
For detailed insights on the International Year One Programme, the SMAPSE team is at your service.
Final Thought: Those who've completed the A-Level, IB, or any other Pre-University programs stand a good chance of gaining admission to top-tier universities in the UK, the US, and globally.
Preparing for University in the UK: 7 Key Steps to Consider
Choosing the right university preparation course in the UK can be daunting. It's crucial to identify your top-choice institution before diving into the selection process. The experts at SMAPSE have broken down the journey into seven clear steps:
1. Research and Prioritize Universities
Delve into comprehensive details about various UK universities and the university prep courses they offer. Once you've garnered ample information, shortlist several institutions based on your personal and academic preferences, ranking them by priority.
2. Rankings and Reputation
Evaluate the selected institutions based on their quality and educational standards. Reliable sources for such evaluations include “The Times Subject Tables” and “The Complete University Guide”. Remember, the UK's educational quality is upheld by its designated national agencies, ensuring you get value for your investment.
3. Consider Location
Estimate the convenience of each university's location. Factors to consider include proximity to amenities, transport links, and any personal preferences or needs.
4. Infrastructure and Faculty
Investigate the material resources and scientific foundations of your shortlisted institutions. Equally important is to gather insights about the teaching staff – their qualifications, experience, and expertise can significantly impact your learning experience.
5. Policies for International Students
As an overseas student, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the university's stance towards international attendees. This can include support services, integration programs, and any specific guidelines.
6. Admission Requirements
Understanding the specific criteria and prerequisites for applicants ensures you're well-prepared when applying. This could range from academic qualifications to proficiency tests.
7. Budgeting: University Preparation Course Fees & Living Expenses
Lastly, acquiring a clear picture of the cost of preparing for university in the UK is vital. This encompasses both the university preparation course fees and the expenses associated with living on campus or in university residences.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to making an informed choice and successfully preparing for your educational journey in the UK.
What documents are required for enrollment?
What are the application deadlines?
What are the English language requirements?
What are the costs of training?
Are there scholarships for international students?
Can I work during my studies?
What clubs and societies are available to students?
What opportunities for internships and traineeships do universities provide?
What are the opportunities for traveling and exploring the country?
What are the career opportunities after studying?
General statistics on education in the UK - ratings, specialties, universities
Best boarding schools in England - 2024 Smapse rankings
1 | Cardiff Sixth Form College |
2 | Sevenoaks School |
3 | Queen Ethelburga's College |
4 | Brighton College |
5 | The National Mathematics and Science College NMSC |
6 | Concord College |
7 | Westbourne School |
8 | Wellington College |
9 | Rossall School |
10 | d'Overbroeck's College |
11 | Dulwich College |
12 | Fettes College |
13 | Stonar School |
14 | Wycliffe College |
15 | Lucton School |
16 | King's School Canterbury |
17 | ACS School Cobham |
18 | Hurtwood House |
19 | Uppingham School |
20 | Scarborough College |
21 | King's College St Michael’s |
22 | Mill Hill School |
23 | Windermere School |
24 | Clifton College |
25 | Badminton School |
26 | Oakham School |
27 | Oundle School |
28 | Stowe School |
29 | Cheltenham College |
30 | Bromsgrove School |
31 | Sidcot School |
32 | Prior Park College |
33 | Millfield School |
34 | Oswestry School |
35 | Caterham School |
36 | City of London Freemen’s School |
37 | Buckswood School |
38 | Brooke House College |
39 | Taunton School |
40 | St Clare's Oxford |
41 | Repton School |
42 | Royal Russell School |
43 | King's Ely |
44 | Leys Cambridge |
45 | Leighton Park |
46 | Bedford School |
47 | Fyling Hall |
48 | Royal Hospital School |
Best boarding schools in England and UK 2024
â„– | A/A* % | Name | Day/Board | Boy/Girl | Day GBP | Board GBP |
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1 | 88.92 | Westminster School | Both | Co-ed (Boys Only 7-16) | 29,709 | 39,252 |
2 | 88.68 | Cardiff Sixth Form College | Both | Co-ed | 16,600 | 42,750 |
3 | 83.54 | Oxford International College | Both | Co-ed | 21,000 | 42,000 |
4 | 83.06 | Brighton College | Both | Co-ed | 24,420 | 44,460 |
5 | 81.43 | Concord College | Both | Co-ed | 14,280 | 39,900 |
6 | 71.25 | Ruthin School | Both | Co-ed | 14,000 | 34,500 |
7 | 64.12 | City of London Freemen's School | Both | Co-ed | 18,279 | 30,816 |
8 | 64.11 | Oundle School | Both | Co-ed | 23,505 | 36,690 |
9 | 61.74 | Marlborough College | Both | Co-ed | 37,815 | |
10 | 60.87 | Rugby School | Both | Co-ed | 22,437 | 35,760 |
11 | 60.00 | Wellington College | Both | Co-ed | 30,375 | 41,580 |
12 | 59.06 | Caterham School | Both | Co-ed | 18,900 | 36,570 |
13 | 58.33 | Hurtwood House | Both | Co-ed | 28,950 | 43,428 |
14 | 58.22 | Epsom College | Both | Co-ed | 25,266 | 37,263 |
15 | 55.71 | St Peter's School | Both | Co-ed | 18,075 | 32,280 |
16 | 54.80 | Uppingham School | Both | Co-ed | 26,313 | 37,590 |
17 | 54.17 | Bellerbys College Cambridge | Both | Co-ed | 27,060 | 38,940 |
18 | 53.71 | Abbey College Cambridge | Both | Co-ed | 29,000 | |
19 | 53.40 | Bishop's Stortford College | Both | Co-ed | 19,839 | 31,923 |
20 | 53.37 | d'Overbroeck's Oxford | Both | Co-ed | 23,850 | 38,700 |
21 | 53.19 | Canford School | Both | Co-ed | 27,723 | 36,420 |
22 | 53.00 | Christ's Hospital | Both | Co-ed | 23,310 | 35,850 |
23 | 52.01 | Ashford School | Both | Co-ed | 16,800 | 37,500 |
24 | 51.14 | Dean Close School | Both | Co-ed | 24,600 | 37,413 |
25 | 51.00 | Monkton Senior School | Both | Co-ed | 20,910 | 33,345 |
26 | 49.50 | Dauntsey's School | Both | Co-ed | 18,990 | 36,300 |
27 | 48.51 | Cheltenham College | Both | Co-ed | 28,575 | 37,770 |
28 | 48.43 | West Buckland School | Both | Co-ed | 15,060 | 33,660 |
29 | 48.06 | Wells Cathedral School | Both | Co-ed | 18,801 | 31,464 |
30 | 47.66 | King's Ely | Both | Co-ed | 21,459 | 39,441 |
IB rankings of small schools in England 2024
AVG. Points | Name | DAY/BOARD | BOY/GIRL | DAY GBP | BOARD GBP | Cohort size |
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36.7 | Westbourne School | Both | Co-ed | 14,010 | 35,850 | 11 |
36.5 | Sherborne Girls | Both | Girls | 21,975 | 37,050 | 17 |
34.1 | Gresham's School | Both | Co-ed | 27,000 | 37,890 | 16 |
32.1 | International Community School | Day | Co-ed | 27,540 | 14 | |
31.0 | Ellesmere College | Both | Co-ed | 18,990 | 34,533 | 12 |
28.0 | Buckswood School | Both | Co-ed | 13,950 | 29,700 | 18 |
Best UK boys private school rankings 2024
â„– | A/A* % | Name | Day/Board | Boy/Girl | Day GBP | Board GBP |
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1 | 95.80 | Winchester College | Boarding | Boys | 43,335 | |
2 | 95.30 | St Paul's School | Both | Boys | 26,556 | 39,966 |
3 | 87.00 | Tonbridge School | Both | Boys | 33,636 | 44,835 |
4 | 84.90 | Radley College | Boarding | Boys | 41,7 | |
5 | 82.00 | Whitgift School | Both | Boys | 21,24 | 41,55 |
6 | 80.20 | Abingdon School | Both | Boys | 21,6 | 44,07 |
7 | 80.00 | Warwick School | Both | Boys | 14,337 | 34,575 |
8 | 75.00 | Bedford School | Both | Boys | 20,949 | 35,43 |
9 | 73.30 | Sherborne School | Both | Boys | 31,8 | 40,125 |
10 | 72.30 | Loughborough Grammar School | Both | Boys | 14,205 | 34,485 |
11 | 70.00 | Shiplake College | Boarding | Boys (Co-ed 6th form) | 25,125 | 37,35 |
12 | 65.80 | Monmouth School | Both | Boys (Co-ed 6th form) | 16,599 | 34,167 |
A-level rankings 2024
# | A + A* % | Name | Day/Board | Boy/Girl | Day £ | Board £ |
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1 | 92.11 | Oxford International College | Both | Co-ed | 23,375 | 44,750 |
2 | 90.28 | Cardiff Sixth Form College | Both | Co-ed | 17,700 | 46,450 |
3 | 85.35 | St Paul's Girls' School | Day | Girls | 27,831 | |
4 | 83.54 | Westminster School | Both | Co-ed (Boys Only 13 - 16) | 31,491 | 41,607 |
5 | 83.52 | Concord College | Both | Co-ed | 14,709 | 41,900 |
6 | 82.40 | Magdalen College School | Day | Boys (Co-ed 6th form) | 18,939 | |
7 | 82.14 | St Paul's School | Both | Boys | 25,908 | 38,991 |
8 | 82.00 | Ruthin School | Both | Co-ed | 14,500 | 40,500 |
9 | 81.51 | Winchester College | Boarding | Boys | 41,709 | |
10 | 81.20 | City of London School for Boys | Day | Boys | 18,939 | |
11 | 80.93 | Brighton College | Both | Co-ed | 25,410 | 50,040 |
12 | 80.60 | Wycombe Abbey School | Boarding | Girls | 30,270 | 40,350 |
13 | 80.30 | Eton College | Boarding | Boys | 42,501 | |
14 | 79.37 | King's College School - Wimbledon | Day | Boys (Co-ed 6th form) | 22,335 | |
15 | 79.15 | Perse Upper School | Day | Co-ed | 17,994 | |
16 | 78.41 | Hampton School | Day | Boys | 20,745 | |
17 | 77.82 | Godolphin & Latymer School | Day | Girls | 22,595 | |
18 | 77.67 | Guildford High School for Girls | Day | Girls | 17,733 | |
19 | 77.65 | Oxford High School GDST | Day | Girls | 16,089 | |
20 | 77.49 | St Mary's School - Ascot | Both | Girls | 28,590 | 40,140 |
21 | 77.14 | City of London School for Girls | Day | Girls | 19,212 | |
22 | 76.53 | Lady Eleanor Holles School | Day | Girls | 20,802 | |
23 | 76.15 | South Hampstead High School | Day | Girls | 19,494 | |
24 | 75.84 | Haberdashers' Aske's Boys' School, Elstree | Day | Boys | 21,159 | |
25 | 75.82 | Highgate School | Day | Co-ed | 21,600 | |
26 | 75.28 | Merchant Taylors' School | Day | Boys | 21,526 | |
27 | 75.21 | King Edward VI High School for Girls | Day | Girls | 13,338 | |
28 | 74.89 | University College School | Day | Boys (Co-ed 6th form) | 21,090 | |
29 | 74.61 | Manchester Grammar School | Day | Boys | 12,930 | |
30 | 74.18 | Haberdashers' Aske's School for Girls | Day | Girls | 19,311 |
IB rankings of large schools in England 2024
AVG. Points | Name | DAY/BOARD | BOY/GIRL | DAY GBP | BOARD GBP | Cohort size |
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43.0 | Godolphin & Latymer School | Day | Girls | 23,531 | 31 | |
42.8 | King's College School - Wimbledon | Day | Boys (Co-ed 6th form) | 22,995 | 54 | |
42.7 | Cheltenham Ladies' College | Both | Girls | 30,39 | 44,79 | 27 |
41.6 | Wellington College | Both | Boys | 21,24 | 41,55 | 24 |
41.3 | Sevenoaks School | Both | Co-ed | 28,413 | 43,353 | 235 |
41.3 | Ardingly College | Both | Co-ed | 25,185 | 39,312 | 50 |
41.2 | Wellington College | Both | Co-ed | 31,14 | 42,63 | 125 |
40.3 | King Edward's School - Birmingham | Day | Boys | 14,091 | 99 | |
40.3 | Bromsgrove School | Day | Girls | 18,885 | 21 | |
40.3 | Brentwood School | Both | Co-ed | 20,598 | 40,365 | 20 |
40.1 | Bromsgrove School | Both | Co-ed | 17,94 | 40,155 | 69 |
39.4 | Fettes College | Both | Co-ed | 30,87 | 37,2 | 61 |
39.0 | Haileybury | Both | Co-ed | 27,435 | 37,215 | 49 |
39.0 | St Clare's | Both | Co-ed | 20,48 | 42,626 | 89 |
39.0 | Westbourne School | Both | Co-ed | 14,97 | 37,95 | 20 |
39.0 | Malvern College | Both | Co-ed | 27,084 | 41,145 | 53 |
38.1 | Marymount International School | Both | Girls | 26,51 | 44,88 | |
38.0 | International School of Aberdeen | Day | Co-ed | 14,815 | 23 | |
38.0 | ACS Hillingdon International School | Day | Co-ed | 25,9 | 30 | |
38.0 | Charterhouse School | Both | Co-ed | 34,218 | 41,406 | |
38.0 | Bryanston School | Both | Co-ed | 39,693 | 22 | |
37.8 | Dwight School London | Day | Co-ed | 25,5 | 24 | |
37.7 | Bradfield College | Both | Co-ed | 32,28 | 40,35 | 32 |
37.6 | Southbank International School - Westminster | Day | Co-ed | 32,16 | 77 | |
37.5 | Gresham's School | Both | Co-ed | 27,81 | 39,03 | 21 |
37.0 | Oakham School | Both | Co-ed | 22,83 | 37,8 | |
37.0 | Felsted School | Both | Co-ed | 25,59 | 39,165 | 39 |
37.0 | ACS Cobham International School | Both | Co-ed | 28,76 | 49,79 | 65 |
37.0 | ACS Egham International School | Day | Co-ed | 26,92 | 56 | |
37.0 | Bedford School | Both | Boys | 20,949 | 35,43 | 21 |
36.6 | International School of London, London | Day | Co-ed | 27,5 | 30 | |
36.4 | Taunton School | Both | Co-ed | 20,88 | 38,88 | 26 |
36.3 | Windermere School | Both | Co-ed | 19,05 | 33,315 | 40 |
36.0 | TASIS - The American School in England | Both | Co-ed | 26,375 | 48,9 | 35 |
35.9 | King Edward's Witley | Both | Co-ed | 21,585 | 34,995 | 31 |
35.8 | St Edward's School - Oxford | Both | Co-ed | 32,382 | 40,467 | 83 |
35.3 | Scarborough College | Both | Co-ed | 15,741 | 32,277 | 28 |
35.2 | Halcyon London International School | Day | Co-ed | 27,966 | ||
35.0 | St Leonards School | Both | Co-ed | 15,939 | 37,92 | 64 |
35.0 | Rossall School | Both | Co-ed | 14,43 | 36,84 | 22 |
34.1 | King William's College | Both | Co-ed | 24 | 35,55 | 49 |
Best boarding schools in England by GCSE 2024
# | A + A* % | Name | Day/Board | Boy/Girl | Day £ | Board £ |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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 |
Best UK girls private school rankings 2024
â„– | A/A* % | Name | Day/Board | Boy/Girl | Day GBP | Board GBP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 93.90 | Wycombe Abbey School | Boarding | Girls | 30,945 | 41,25 |
2 | 90.30 | Woldingham School | Both | Girls | 25,5 | 42,21 |
3 | 88.60 | St Swithun's School | Both | Girls | 21,918 | 36,339 |
4 | 85.00 | St Catherine's School, Bramley | Both | Girls | 19,775 | 32,865 |
5 | 85.00 | Downe House School | Both | Girls | 31,305 | 42,09 |
6 | 84.30 | Cheltenham Ladies' College | Both | Girls | 30,39 | 44,79 |
7 | 83.00 | Benenden School | Boarding | Girls | 40,848 | |
8 | 81.00 | St Mary's School - Cambridge | Both | Girls | 17,373 | 36,007 |
9 | 79.00 | Bruton School For Girls | Both | Girls (Co-ed 3 - 7) | 18,696 | 34,524 |
10 | 79.00 | Badminton School | Both | Girls | 17,43 | 40,5 |
11 | 79.00 | Mayfield School | Both | Girls | 23,25 | 36,75 |
12 | 78.00 | St Francis' College | Both | Girls | 18,45 | 34,77 |
13 | 78.00 | Queen Margaret's School - York | Both | Girls | 19,5 | 33,69 |
14 | 77.50 | St George's School - Ascot | Both | Girls | 24,195 | 37,98 |
15 | 77.20 | Rye St Antony School | Both | Girls (Co-ed 3 - 11) | 17,055 | 29,415 |
16 | 76.00 | Headington School | Both | Girls | 20,28 | 40,965 |
17 | 75.00 | Malvern St James Girls' School | Both | Girls | 19,74 | 42,81 |
18 | 74.80 | Sherborne Girls | Both | Girls | 23,76 | 39,51 |
19 | 73.30 | Tudor Hall School | Both | Girls | ||
20 | 72.50 | Royal High School | Both | Girls | 14,595 | 32,286 |
21 | 72.00 | Queen Anne's School | Both | Girls | 25,11 | 41,775 |
22 | 71.00 | Farlington School | Both | Girls | 18,3 | 30,75 |
23 | 70.00 | Moreton Hall School | Both | Girls (Co-ed 3 - 13) | 31,08 | 37,77 |
24 | 69.00 | Harrogate Ladies' College | Both | Girls | 17,52 | 41,355 |
25 | 67.80 | Queenswood School | Both | Girls | 27,12 | 37,65 |
26 | 65.80 | Haberdashers' Monmouth School for Girls | Both | Girls (Co-ed 6th form) | 16,599 | 34,167 |
27 | 65.00 | Heathfield School - Ascot | Both | Girls | 24 | 38,85 |
28 | 64.00 | Royal Masonic School for Girls | Both | Girls | 19,278 | 33,198 |
29 | 60.00 | The Godolphin School | Both | Girls | 22,335 | 39,165 |
Rankings of 22 best British colleges 2024
â„– | A/A* % | Name | Day/Board | Boy/Girl | Day GBP | Board GBP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 88.68 | Cardiff Sixth Form College | Both | Co-ed | 16,600 | 42,750 |
2 | 83.54 | Oxford International College | Both | Co-ed | 21,000 | 42,000 |
3 | 81.43 | Concord College | Both | Co-ed | 14,280 | 39,900 |
4 | 64% | National Mathematics and Science College | Both | Co-ed | 29,000 | 45,000 |
4 | 58.33 | Hurtwood House | Both | Co-ed | 28,950 | 43,428 |
5 | 54.17 | Bellerbys College Cambridge | Both | Co-ed | 27,060 | 38,940 |
6 | 53.71 | Abbey College Cambridge | Both | Co-ed | 29,000 | |
7 | 53.37 | d'Overbroeck's Oxford | Both | Co-ed | 23,850 | 38,700 |
8 | 47.21 | Cambridge Tutors College | Both | Co-ed | 15,900 | 39,990 |
9 | 44.09 | CATS College Canterbury | Both | Co-ed | 26,490 | 41,775 |
10 | 42.55 | Bosworth Independent College | Both | Co-ed | 12,600 | 30,300 |
11 | 39.29 | CATS College Cambridge | Both | Co-ed | 24,990 | 44,775 |
12 | 32.94 | Mander Portman Woodward - Cambridge | Day | Co-ed | 28,305 | |
13 | 31.01 | Bellerbys College Brighton | Both | Co-ed | 27,060 | 43,704 |
14 | 30.53 | Abbey College Manchester | Both | Co-ed | 12,750 | |
15 | 30.50 | Chelsea Independent College | Both | Co-ed | 24,000 | 48,000 |
16 | 29.75 | Cambridge Centre For Sixth Form Studies | Both | Co-ed | 21,000 | 48,000 |
17 | 28.65 | Rochester Independent College | Both | Co-ed | 18,000 | 36,900 |
18 | 24.86 | CATS College London | Both | Co-ed | 24,990 | 49,980 |
19 | 24.83 | DLD College London | Both | Co-ed | 23,000 | 50,500 |
20 | 20.93 | Ealing Independent College | Day | Co-ed | 16,050 | |
21 | 16.39 | Padworth College | Both | Co-ed |
Top 9 best colleges in London 2024 rankings
1 | Abbey DLD College London |
2 | MPW College London |
3 | Kensington Park School |
4 | CATS College London |
5 | Bellerbys College London |
6 | David Game College London |
7 | Cambridge Tutors College |
8 | Ealing Independent College |
9 | King’s College London |
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 |
Secondary education in the UK
World Ranking | 1 |
---|---|
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 |
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 33 best schools and colleges in and near London 2024
1 | Abbey DLD College London |
2 | Sevenoaks School |
3 | Chelsea Independent College |
4 | ACS Cobham International School |
5 | MPW College London |
6 | Westminster School |
7 | Mill Hill School |
8 | St Pauls School London |
9 | Kensington Park School |
10 | Harrow School |
11 | CATS College London |
12 | David Game College London |
13 | Hurtwood House School |
14 | Brentwood Private School |
15 | Bellerbys College London |
16 | Caterham School |
17 | International Community School |
18 | TASIS the American International School in England |
19 | City of London Freemen’s School |
20 | Dulwich College |
21 | Ashbourne College |
22 | Epsom College |
23 | Royal Russell School |
24 | Rochester Independent College |
25 | Worth School |
26 | Felsted School |
27 | Queenswood private boarding school |
28 | LVS Ascot School |
29 | Eaton Square Private School London |
30 | Cambridge Tutors College |
31 | Marymount International School London |
32 | St Christopher School Letchworth |
33 | King Edward's Witley Private School |
Cost of living in United Kingdom
Expenses - USD/Month. | Min. | Med. |
---|---|---|
Accommodation | 306 | 398 |
Food | 177 | 391 |
Transportation | 59 | 180 |
Communications and utilities | 74 | 104 |
Clothing | 20 | 77 |
Sports and leisure | 25 | 88 |
Total | 662 | 1,239 |
Accommodation in United Kingdom | USD/Month. | |
Shared room outside of centre | 309 | |
Shared room in city centre | 402 | |
1 bedroom apartment outside of centre | 596 | |
1 bedroom apartment in city centre | 723 |
Higher education in UK-statistics
Name | Bachelor |
---|---|
Deadline | March |
The probability of admission | 63% |
Duration | 3-4 years |
Average cost | £15,000 |
Expulsion statistics | 21% |
Language of tuition | English |
Minimum level of English | IELTS 6.5 |
Job opportunity | 30% |
Percentage of students enrolled in the master's program | 47% |
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+ |