Studying in the UK
Useful vocabulary
GCSE
These are qualifications which are taken by all school children in the UK. Most GCSE courses include some coursework and also an exam at the end of the course in June. Students take a range of subjects but the most important ones are English, Maths and Science. Students will need to get good grades to continue their studies further. The highest grade a student can receive is A* and C is a pass.
A level
These are qualifications that are more challenging than GCSEs and show which students are good enough to continue their studies at university. Most A level courses involve coursework as well as exams each year. Students choose their favourite subjects which may be linked to the subject they would like to study at university. The system has recently changed and the first year of A level is now called AS level, whilst the 2nd year is called A2. Students who do well in these exams can then go to university.
ISC
Short name for International Study Centre.
Coursework
Essays and projects which students complete during their course outside of the exam hall. The marks from these count towards the final grade. Coursework is a good opportunity for students who do not perform well in exams to show what they are capable of.
Mock Exam
A practice exam.
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
English lessons which support students as they study other subjects. These lessons teach reading and writing skills, as well as academic vocabulary.
Sixth Form
This is the term given to the two years of optional study after GCSEs during which students study for A level qualifications. Students will need to do A levels to go on to university in the UK.
Public School
Funnily enough, this is another word for a fee-paying or independent school.
State School
This is a school which is funded by the government, and is free to all permanent UK residents.
Independent or Private School
This is a school which can only be attended by students who pay fees to do so.
Boarding School
A boarding school offers students the choice of living in the school during term time. Students eat their meals and sleep in a school boarding house.
University Foundation Course
These courses allow students who have not studied A levels to gain the skills necessary to continue their studies at university.
Term
There are three terms in the British Academic Year: Autumn, Winter and Spring term. These divide in to six half terms. Each term lasts approximately 3 months.
Personal Statement
You will be asked to write a personal statement when you apply for university places, Sixth Form. It is a record of your achievements and experiences to date. Although academic success is very important, British universities will also look at achievements outside of the classroom. These include things like sporting and musical abilities; whether students have taken part in theatre productions, fundraising, or other activities; or have generally contributed to the life of their community or school.