These programmes are particularly popular for those who have not found mainstream, large-scale education to be a good fit for them; or for students whose secondary leaving qualifications are not acceptable for direct entry to UK universities (check your country’s qualifications and their equivalents for UK university entry through the UCAS website here).

Many of our full-time students are re-taking public exams to improve their grades for university entry, or taking an intensive, one-year A-Level programme in order to gain the qualifications needed to bridge the gap between their international secondary education, and UK university entry. 

As standard, our GCSE and A-Level programmes include intensive English Language and IELTS support, in order to ensure that students meet the language requirements for their chosen university on departure from OISC. For most UK universities, this will mean an IELTS score of at least 6.0 overall, but some universities will require a higher score. 

For international students aged 16 or over, OISC is able to offer visa sponsorship under the Student Visa category if required. Please see our visa information page for full details, and to check whether you will need a visa to study at OISC.

If you are interested in joining us for A-Level or GCSE study from September 2025, please contact us now to discuss the most suitable options. We will then invite you to an admissions interview, where you will meet the Principal, as well as academic and pastoral staff.

• Small group sizes for a high level of individual attention. Most A-Level classes are between 3-5 students.
• A wide range of options offered, with expert tutors in more than 18 different subjects
• English Language support throughout your programme, at a suitable level, and regular mock IELTS testing.
• Monthly reports to ensure effective monitoring of progress.
• Comprehensive support with university applications, including advice on most suitable target institutions; personal statement guidance; and preparation for interview, if relevant.
• A personal tutor, who meets with students at least fortnightly, to ensure personal and academic wellbeing.
• Weekly Enrichment session for all students, including social activities, students clubs and societies, Study Skills seminars, and welfare events.

"All in all, truly outstanding, both for summer courses and university application help.

OISC were able to offer me invaluable advice and support for my (successful) UCAS application and university interviews. The wealth of information provided was, I believe, crucial in mastering the British application format; I was also excellently prepared for an additional A-level needed for my application by further online tuition."

- Michael, A-Level student, Switzerland