GCSE

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is the name of an academic qualification awarded in a specified subject, generally taken in a number of subjects by pupils aged 14-16 in secondary education in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. (In Scotland, the equivalent is the Standard Grade). The International version of the GCSE is the IGCSE, which can be taken anywhere in the world, and which includes additional options, for example relating to coursework and the language used.

GCSE courses are taken in a variety of subjects, which are usually decided by the pupils themselves in Year 9 (age 13-14). Study of chosen subjects begins at the start of Year 10 (age 14-15), and final examinations are then taken at the end of Year 11 (age 15-16).

GCSEs are not compulsory, but they are by far the most common qualification taken by 14-16-year-old pupils. Virtually all pupils take GCSEs in English, mathematics and science. In addition, many schools also require that their pupils take English literature, at least one modern foreign language, at least one design and technology subject, religious education (often a short, or 'half', course), or ICT.

A-Level

The A-level, short for Advanced Level, is a General Certificate of Education qualification in England, Northern Ireland and Wales, usually taken by students during the optional final two years of secondary school (years 12 & 13, usually ages 16-18), commonly called the Sixth Form, after they have completed GCSE or IGCSE (International GCSE) exams. The qualification is recognized around the world and is used as a sort of entrance exam for some universities.

It is a non-compulsory qualification taken by students in the UK *, and many Commonwealth countries such as Hong Kong, Singapore, South Africa and Pakistan.

Pupils have to choose three or four major subjects to study, and then, depending on their grades, will be admitted to universities accordingly.

Apart from an International Foundation course, A-levels are another pathway for international students wishing to apply for undergraduate courses at universities.

* In Scotland, students usually take Highers and Advanced Highers of the Scottish Qualifications Certificate. However, a small minority of schools offer the A-level as an alternative, typically private schools.