The Student Room Group

What is igcse and what is al levels

What do you need them for? Is igcse the equivalent of high school diploma? what about alevels? Is it necessary to enter universities?
If I dont want to do them, what are the things i have to do instead?

Reply 1

Original post by ghaythan
What do you need them for? Is igcse the equivalent of high school diploma? what about alevels? Is it necessary to enter universities?
If I dont want to do them, what are the things i have to do instead?

I don't know specifically about the international/"I" variations, but:

GCSE's are usually studied for two years, then exams are taken the year you turn 16. This is a "Level 2" qualification, which allows you to apply for sixth form/college to take A-levels for two years.

A-Levels are a "Level 3" qualification, where you take three subjects, which allows you to apply for UK universities.

There are plenty of alternatives but you do usually need to do level 2, then level 3, then university.

Look up "Level 2/3 (subject) qualification" to see more options online! BTECs are a great alternative for more practical subjects.
Good Luck!

Reply 2

Original post by lilybo
I don't know specifically about the international/"I" variations, but:

GCSE's are usually studied for two years, then exams are taken the year you turn 16. This is a "Level 2" qualification, which allows you to apply for sixth form/college to take A-levels for two years.

A-Levels are a "Level 3" qualification, where you take three subjects, which allows you to apply for UK universities.

There are plenty of alternatives but you do usually need to do level 2, then level 3, then university.

Look up "Level 2/3 (subject) qualification" to see more options online! BTECs are a great alternative for more practical subjects.
Good Luck!


Thank you so much but I still dont understand. What are they for? Are they equivalent to finishing grade 10 and grade 12? What do I need them for?

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