The UK’s General Certificate of Secondary Education is the qualification traditionally studied by school children aged 14-16, providing a first step on the ladder of formal academic assessment. A range of subjects is offered at GCSE, including the important core subjects, English and Mathematics. Good grades at GCSE allow students to progress to A Level.

GCSE Pathway programme
Spanning three years, the GCSE pathway programme allows students aged 13 to study nine subjects. A condensed version of the course is offered across two years, to students aged 14.

One-year GCSE
International students aged 15 can take an intensive one-year GCSE programme, which allows them to study six subjects.

Recognised globally, the UK’s Advanced Levels are the secondary school qualifications required to gain a place on a UK undergraduate degree programme. Highly valued by universities and employers, A Levels are traditionally studied by 16-19 year olds. The higher the grades students achieve at A Level, the wider the pool of top academic institutions they can choose from.

Offered at Study Group’s International Study Centres, the International Foundation Year is available on campus at a range of renowned UK universities. The three-term programme of academic subjects, study skills and English language tuition is specifically designed for international students who need some support to meet the entry requirements for their chosen undergraduate degree. Courses provide an invaluable introduction to the UK's teaching, learning and assessment styles, helping students adapt to life and study in the UK. ISC students are given guidance and support in making their undergraduate degree applications. On achieving the required progression grades, students are guaranteed entry to the first year of an undergraduate degree at the university associated with the ISC.

Students who can demonstrate a high level of English language ability, as well as a track record of strong academic results, may be eligible for the International Year One programme. Available at Study Group’s International Study Centres, the programme is equivalent to the first year of a UK undergraduate degree. Students focus on academic modules relevant to their chosen degree subject, working towards direct entry to the second year of undergraduate study. English language tuition and an introduction to the university’s teaching, learning and assessment styles also form part of the three-term course. Students who achieve the required progression grades are guaranteed a place in the second year of an undergraduate degree at the university associated with the ISC. 

Study Group's Pre-Masters programme supports international students in reaching the required command of English before they pursue a UK postgraduate qualification. This is also a chance for students to refresh their academic knowledge in a particular field of study. The two-term courses are offered at a range of International Study Centres connected with some of the UK’s most prestigious universities. Students gain an understanding of the teaching, learning and assessment styles in place at their chosen university while developing their academic skills in the relevant subject area. The Pre-Masters course helps international students prepare for the classroom environment and life in the UK.