Frequently Asked Questions
How does the International Study Centre (ISC) fit into d'Overbroeck's College?
d'Overbroeck's International Study Centre is part of d'Overbroeck's College, which also includes the d'Overbroeck's Sixth Form. The International Study Centre offers courses specifically for international students aged 14-17. It prepares students for entry to d'Overbroeck's Sixth Form or to another Sixth Form in the UK. d'Overbroeck's Sixth Form is an independent Sixth Form which admits both British students and international students to study A levels. Many teachers who teach students at the Study Centre are also full-time teachers at the Sixth Form and are very experienced in teaching this age group.
What are GCSEs and A levels?
These are British academic examinations/qualifications. See an explanation of the UK education system.
Do I need to get a VISA to come and study in the UK?
This depends on your country of origin. Once you have been awarded a place on the course, we will provide you with all necessary documents to support your visa application. Please see visas page.
Do I automatically get a place at d'Overbroeck's College to study A levels if I study the GCSE programme first?
Choosing to study the GCSE programme first does not guarantee you a place in our Sixth Form to study your A levels. However, it greatly increases your chances of getting a place as you will be well prepared; used to the UK education system; and be more confident in your English.
Will I receive help with my application to a Sixth Form after the GCSE programme?
Yes – we will advise you on the next best step after the GCSE programme and we hold various talks and advisory sessions throughout the year to aid future decisions.
Does it matter how old I am?
Our courses are aimed at students aged between 15-18. We have also sometimes accepted older students who we felt would benefit from our courses.
Do I need to have a guardian in the UK?
All international students under the age of 16 are required to have a guardian in the UK.
What will my accommodation be like?
Students on the GCSE Programme generally live with host families during their time in the UK. They have their own room with bed, desk, study space and storage. Breakfast and evening meals are provided by the host families. Our host families are inspected regularly to ensure that they provide a safe and welcoming environment for our students. Some GCSE students choose to live in our boarding accommodation; this is in double rooms. For more information, see our boarding pages.
What will I eat?
You will be provided with breakfast and dinner at your accommodation. Breakfast is usually a light meal including cereal, toast, tea or coffee and fruit juice. Dinner is normally a hot meal and can include food from all over the world. You buy your lunchtime meal yourself.
If I am on the GCSE programme, will I have any contact with Sixth Form students?
Yes – you will have the chance to mix with Sixth Form students during extra-curricular activities such as sports, clubs, societies and other events and trips.
How do I get to Oxford?
We strongly recommend that you arrive at either gatwick or Heathrow airport. There are direct buses to Oxford from both Gatwick and Heathrow airports. You can also be collected from the airport by our taxi transfer company at an extra cost. See airport transfers.
What should I do if I have a complaint?
Please download the College's complaints procedure (pdf, doc)