About entrance examinations for universities abroad

In domestic universities, it is common for admission decisions to be based on standardized test scores and the university's own examinations.

However, universities abroad evaluate applicants comprehensively based on their English proficiency, extracurricular activities, essays, academic performance (such as international qualifications like A-Levels), and high school grades.

In other words, applicants are evaluated from the perspective of "Is this candidate suitable for our university?" taking into account their high school experiences and endeavors. This is significantly different from the emphasis placed on test results in domestic university admissions. Consequently, individuals themselves are put to the test.

Your options are open to the world. Please consider studying with Nisai to broaden your choices. It's undeniable that learning at Nisai can be a significant asset in your career after graduation.

※ Cambridge International AS & A Levels are taken by 175,000 students from 125 countries annually. Each program follows the British curriculum and is designed to prepare students for entry into overseas universities (equivalent to the first year of university studies). A-Level qualifications are internationally recognized and serve as proof of academic proficiency necessary for admission to universities abroad. Holding A-Level qualifications expands options for overseas universities and also proves to be a significant asset in employment.

　

Advantages of obtaining A-Levels at the time of university admissions

A-Levels are internationally recognized qualifications. They are accepted as entry qualifications by over 1,400 universities worldwide, and their recognition is increasing in Japan as universities become more globalized.

The A-Level curriculum is designed following the British curriculum and is taken annually by approximately 175,000 students not only in the UK but also in about 125 countries worldwide. Moreover, the A-Level curriculum prepares students to study at universities abroad.

　

Major countries where A-levels are recognized as university entry qualifications

English-speaking countries

• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Canada
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Ireland, etc

　

Europe

• Germany
• France
• Switzerland
• Spain, etc.

　

Asia

• Hong Kong
• Singapore
• Malaysia, etc.

　

About applying to universities abroad

United States

In the United States, each university selects applicants based on its own admission policies. While there are differences between universities, it is common to evaluate applicants holistically, considering factors such as A-Level results, high school grades, standardized tests like the SAT, essays, extracurricular activities, and more. Many universities accept A-Levels as equivalent to high school graduation qualifications at the time of application. Additionally, depending on the A-Level score and the university, it may also be used to award credits as an introductory subject after admission.

　

United Kingdom

In the UK, admission assessments are typically based on A-Level grades and personal statements. As A-Level grades carry significant weight in the assessment process, it's important to engage in classwork diligently and strive for good A-Level results. British universities require applicants to choose their faculties before applying, so the subjects and grades required for application may vary depending on the faculty, even within the same university.Nisaiで提供していない科目もありますので、Since some subjects may not be offered by Nisai, it's essential to research and decide on the desired university and faculty (academic field) before enrolling in a program and selecting subjects.

Moreover, prestigious universities like Oxford and Cambridge require entrance exams and interviews in addition to submitting A-Level grades and personal statements as part of the assessment process.

　

Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and European countries

In most universities, admission assessments are based solely on A-Level grades. If aiming for universities in these countries, it's crucial to diligently engage in classwork and strive for good A-Level results. Additionally, since it's common to choose faculties before applying, the required subjects and grades may vary depending on the faculty.As with the UK, it's important to research and decide on the desired university and faculty (academic field) before enrolling in a program and selecting subjects, as some subjects may not be offered by Nisai. Only a few universities in these countries consider personal statements and extracurricular activities as part of the assessment criteria.

　

Using A-Levels for university admission in Japan

In Japan, regarding students with A-Level qualifications, it is stated that "Students who hold foreign university entry qualifications, such as GCE A-Levels, are eligible for admission to universities" (refer to Q5, Q6).For more details, please refer to the Ministry of Education's "Q&A on Admission Qualifications (as of January 31, Heisei 31)."

　

Advantages of obtaining A-Levels instead of Japanese high school diploma:

• You can apply to three-year universities directly in countries like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, leading to savings in tuition fees and time.
  ※With only a Japanese high school diploma, it is necessary to complete a one-year Foundation Course (preparatory course) before entering a third-year university, resulting in a total of four years until graduation.
• Prestigious universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, LSE, etc do not offer Foundation Courses, making it difficult to apply with only a Japanese high school diploma. However, you can apply to those schools directly with A-level qualifications
• You can adequately prepare for universities abroad by studying in English throughout the two years of A-Levels.