The British education system is reputed for its rigourous academic standards, rich academic traditions and challenging and intellectually stimulating learning environment. It's no wonder that the country produces a whopping 14 per cent of the world’s most highly cited and impactful scientific research.

British students who are set on continuing on to university usually study three or more A levels – the most common qualifications to get into higher education – over two years (Year 12 and Year 13). A-level grades are determined by one's final exam results at the end of Year 13. There is a huge variety of subjects available to study at A-level, but some degree courses at British universities require specific subjects (and grades).

Foreign students can also benefit from the various advantages of studying according to the same British curriculum by learning remotely at an online school based in the UK. There's a number of reasons why it might be a good option for a student from abroad:

Costs

Foreign students who don't have a right of abode in the UK need to apply to an independent (also known as a private or public) school, which charges tuition fees. Usually they are very expensive - higher than the average salary in the country, and the fees are heavily influenced by a particular school's reputation and location.

With choosing to study at an online school based in the UK there's no need to relocate and pay additional costs for boarding, things like school uniforms and school trips, and an air of exclusivity and prestige in general.

And although traditional private schools in the UK have their advantages when it comes to A-levels results and a quality of learning, attending one is not a prerequisite for getting into prestigious universities such as Oxford and Cambridge. In fact, the predominant majority of students who received a place at Oxford in 2020 weren't privately schooled.

Future opportunities

Foreign students enrolled at an online school in the UK can study the same curriculum as is taught in traditional British schools and go on to take the International GCSE or IGCSE (an English language based secondary qualification recognised in the UK as being equivalent to the GCSE) and a range of qualifications, including A-levels, down the road. British education is highly appreciated and recognized all over the world by both universities and employers, so it can open up plenty of opportunities for school graduates.

Flexibility

Online learning is more flexible than in-person classes, so foreign students can combine it with a local (traditional) school and study at their own pace, independently, according to a plan that fits them best. They have more time and freedom for extracurricular activities and interests outside a classroom and can always revisit their lessons later.

Personalised education

British education in general tends to be more individualised, with the personal needs of each student taken into account and a strong emphasis on practice and the development of soft skills such as teamwork and communication. Foreign students studying online can additionally benefit from smaller class sizes (one of the top reasons why some parents choose traditional private schools over state schools) and more immediate, timely and personalized feedback from teachers.

English language

Studying at a UK-based online school allows foreign students to immerse themselves in the English language, considered to be a truly global lingua franca, from day one, which is a great preparation for future studying and working in an international setting.

LEO International Online School offers a wide range of distance learning programs based on the British Curriculum depending on the level of English and background of the student, including a diverse and intensive two–year A-Level programme designed to prepare students for university entry in the United Kingdom. Learn more about this programme and our other courses here, and don't hesitate to contact us at info@leo-school.uk.