Welcome to the Parents’ Hub

There’s a reason that UK international school qualifications are the most popular qualifications in the world. Learn how they can open doors to global success for your child.

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Welcome

Welcome to our parents’ hub. We understand that choosing the right school qualifications for your child is a crucial decision. To help you make your decision, this page explores how UK international school qualifications like International GCSEs, International AS Levels and International A Levels can set your child up for success. 

We also highlight how the British Council supports schools to improve educational outcomes and unlock opportunities for students. 

Reasons to choose UK international school qualifications

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Global recognition

  • UK international school qualifications are recognised by top universities and employers around the world. This helps ensure your child gets accepted by their employer or university of choice — whether that’s locally or abroad.
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Academic excellence

  • UK international school qualifications are respected wherever you go
  • Qualifications follow a comprehensive curriculum that ensures a balanced, in-depth understanding across subjects
  • Students ‘learn how to learn.’ They also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
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Rigorous and consistent assessment

  • Qualifications are awarded by prestigious bodies like Cambridge International Education, OxfordAQA, and Pearson Edexcel
  • Exams are highly regulated, credible, and will fairly and accurately measure your child’s ability
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Professional readiness

  • Qualifications teach essential skills such as leadership, teamwork, and communication, preparing your child for success in the job market
  • Students develop a global perspective, helping them confidently navigate different cultural settings
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Preparation for higher education

  • Specialisation in subjects during International AS Levels and International A Levels equips students with deep subject knowledge, providing a bridge to university-level courses
  • Students gain the research, writing, and analytical skills needed to succeed in higher education

Featured Guides

Parents’ Guide to choosing an international school

Your in-depth guide to choosing the right international school


Get tips on choosing the right international school for your child. We share insights on key criteria such as school qualifications, curricula, safety, and fees.

Read the guide
Parents’ Guide to UK International School Qualifications

Parents’ Guide to UK International School Qualifications


Learn why so many parents send their children to schools offering UK international school qualifications

Download now

What parents have to say about UK international school qualifications

“The qualifications give you a variety of things to learn. They enable you to discover yourself and know what and who you want to be.”
Marie Nagiud, parent of a child at St Fatima Language School
"When they start university, they don’t feel a difference or face problems, compared to students who come from different systems.”
Eman Mohamed Mokhtar, parent of a child who went to the British School in Cairo
“The British system is very fair. If you make an effort, it will reflect clearly in your results.”
Gehan Adel, parent of a child at the British School in Cairo
“The method of teaching kids isn’t traditional or old-fashioned. It doesn’t focus on rote learning. Instead, it encourages critical thinking.”
Saied Mahmoud, parent of two children at Summits International School

How the British Council supports students 

 

Our purpose is to give students the best chance of unlocking the opportunities afforded to them by UK international school qualifications.

We do this by providing comprehensive support and training to schools. By focusing on empowering educators, we directly impact students' success and readiness for the future.

We help students develop global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding by facilitating collaborative projects, such as Partner Schools Connect. This program encourages students to engage with peers from different countries. We also organise competitions like the Your World video contest, providing students with a platform to express their perspectives on global issues, encouraging creativity, and rewarding excellence.

Our commitment extends to the well-being of students, offering safeguarding resources and guidance to support their mental and emotional health throughout their educational journey. By training educators to recognise and address the challenges students may face, we contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

 

Developing global citizenship and core life skills

Your World video competition

An international video competition where students showcase their creativity and unique perspectives while learning about global issues.

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Partner Schools Connect 

Students collaborate on joint classroom-based projects with teachers and learners from our global Partner Schools community. 

Learn more

Student safeguarding

Resources and training to help educators and parents safeguard student well-being. 

Learn more

Frequently asked questions

What are UK international school qualifications?

UK international school qualifications are awarded by UK-based awarding bodies. These include International GCSEs, International AS Levels and International A Levels, which are globally recognised programmes that prepare students for higher education and professional success. They offer a broad, balanced curriculum designed to foster deep understanding and critical thinking skills. 

Do UK international school qualifications penalise poor spelling and grammar?

No, UK international school qualifications prioritise critical thinking, understanding, and analytical abilities over spelling and grammar, memorisation, and rote learning, The emphasis is on students' ability to apply knowledge and think independently. 

Will my child have to stop learning in their own language?

No, pursuing UK international school qualifications does not mean your child has to stop learning in their native language. Many international schools offer bilingual education or language classes that include the native language of the students. The curricula offered by UK-based awarding bodies are flexible to local needs, meaning that lessons can explore local history, culture, and issues. 

How do UK qualifications prepare my child for the future?

UK international school qualifications prepare students for a successful future by developing core skills such as critical thinking, research, and independent learning. They are designed to equip students with the knowledge and abilities needed for higher education and the global professional world.

Are UK international school qualifications recognised by universities and employers worldwide?

Yes, UK international school qualifications are highly valued and recognised by universities and employers around the world for their rigorous academic standards and the well-rounded education they provide.
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