INTERNATIONAL CURRICULUM
A-LEVEL PROGRAMME
The A-Level (Advanced Level) program is a key stage of the British education system, widely recognized for its rigorous standards and relevance to higher education. It is designed for students aged 16 to 18, typically following the completion of the GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) exams. Here’s a detailed look at what the A-Level program entails:

The A-Level program typically spans two years, known as the Lower Sixth (Year 12) and Upper Sixth (Year 13). Students focus on in-depth study of a select number of subjects, usually three or four, chosen based on their academic interests and future career goals.

Students can choose from a diverse array of subjects, including natural sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), humanities (History, Geography, Philosophy), social sciences (Economics, Psychology, Sociology), and arts (Art, Drama, Music). A-Level allows students to specialize in subjects they are passionate about or wish to pursue further in higher education.

A-Level assessments typically consist of written exams held at the end of each academic year. These exams test students' knowledge and understanding of their chosen subjects. Some subjects may also include coursework or practical assessments as part of the evaluation.

A-Level results are graded on a scale from A* (highest) to E (minimum pass). The grading system reflects the student’s understanding and performance in each subject. High grades in A-Level exams are crucial for university admissions, as they demonstrate a student's ability to handle advanced coursework.

A-Level results play a significant role in university applications, as admissions teams use them to assess a student’s readiness for higher education. Specific universities and courses may have particular A-Level subject requirements or grade thresholds. A-Level qualifications are recognized by universities worldwide, facilitating international study opportunities.

At institutions like Russian International School, the A-Level program is personalized to fit each student's needs, career aspirations, and academic strengths. Advisors work closely with students to select subjects that align with their goals and university requirements. Students receive guidance and support throughout their A-Level studies to help them achieve their best results and navigate their university applications.

The A-Level program supports various career paths by allowing students to delve deeply into subjects relevant to their chosen fields. For example, aspiring engineers might focus on Mathematics and Physics, while future artists might choose Art and Design.

The A-Level program at Russian International School ensures that students are well-prepared for their future academic and professional endeavors by providing a structured, yet flexible, educational pathway tailored to their individual strengths and aspirations.
Examples of A-level subject combinations:
  • Medicine and biological sciences
    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Mathematics or Physics
  • Engineering and technical sciences
    • Mathematics
    • Physics
    • Chemistry or Computer Science
  • Natural Sciences
    • Physics
    • Chemistry
    • Mathematics or Biology
  • Human Sciences
    • History
    • Language and Literature
    • Additional subject of choice: Philosophy, Art and Design, Geography, etc.
  • Economy and Business
    • Economics
    • Mathematics or Business Studies
    • Additional subject of choice: Finance, Statistics, Computer Science
  • Art and design
    • Art and Design
    • Photography or Art
    • Additional subject of choice: History of Art, Graphic Design
Individual Academic Pathway is a crucial aspect of the A-Level program. At Russian International School, we place great importance on creating a unique academic route for each student, taking into account their interests, abilities, career goals, and the requirements of the universities they wish to apply to.
With a dedicated approach to education, RIS students are well-prepared to enter some of the best universities around the world.

Our graduates confidently move on to prestigious institutions such as UCL and King's College London in the UK, York University in Canada, the Higher School of Economics in the Czech Republic, the International University of Monaco in France, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in the USA, as well as the Higher School of Economics, Moscow State University, and MGIMO in Russia, among others.

This reflects that RIS students successfully pass their exams and achieve high academic results, enabling them to gain admission to top universities across the globe.