A-Level Course for High School Students

International AS & A Levels is your passport to university and employment success
Become a global talent with international qualifications that are highly regarded by universities and employers around the world.

Features of the A-Level course for high school student

Nisai is officially registered and accredited by the UK government. Nisai’s British program is designed to cultivate and develop skills necessary for global talents, including:

  • Problem-solving skills
  • Critical thinking
  • Independent research
  • Collaboration
  • Discussion
  • Presentation skills
         

Furthermore, International AS & A Levels (A-Levels) are recognized as the passport to success in education, university, and career. The International Advanced Subsidiary Levels (AS Levels) and International Advanced Levels (A Levels) are subject-specific qualification exams taken over two years in high school.

Features of the A-Level course for high school student

The A-Level program is a two-year course for 16- to 19-year-olds (high school students) before university education. Completion of the AS Level program requires one year of study, while completion of the A-Level program requires two years of study including the AS program. Assessments and international qualification exams are conducted at the end of each program year.

The A-Level program aims to develop the following abilities:

  • Specialized and in-depth knowledge and understanding of subjects
  • Learning to study independently
  • Applying knowledge in new situations and daily life
  • Handling and evaluating various sources of information
  • Logical thinking and coherent argumentation and explanation
  • Learning and having a conversation in English

While the syllabi maintain a global perspective, they also retain relevance to everyday life. Contents are tailored to suit different school cultures, avoid cultural preconceptions, and are specially structured with international students in mind. Contexts and examples used in syllabi and exam questions are created with international situations in mind.
The available subjects include:

  • English Language
  • Maths
  • Sociology
  • Environmental Management
  • Thinking Skills
  • Economics

Classes start in the evening, allowing students to receive an equivalent international education while attending schools in Japan. Nisai also provides tutors and career support to all students, dedicated to supporting them in achieving their goals. (Nisai's program can also be provided during lunchtime when introduced into school institutions.)

※Currently, there is a growing number of students attending Nisai in the form of homeschooling while remaining enrolled in public or private schools. Many domestic and returnee students, who wish to develop their English skills for domestic exam preparation are attending Nisai.

If you are not confident in your English skills, please do not worry. You can start by taking the booster course to rapidly develop your English skills and then proceed to study AS & A-Levels. Some students who aim for future enrollment or transfer to overseas universities also choose to enroll in Nisai.

Program and curriculum of A-Level course

       

Flow of the British Program

Flow of the Cambridge Program

Pathways after taking A-Level

APathways after taking A-Level

About the academic skills and abilities acquired through the A-Level course

AS & A-level First Year AS Level Curriculum (Target: Ages 16 to 17, High School Years 1 to 2)
AS & A-level Second Year A-Level Curriculum (Target: Ages 17 to 18, High School Years 2 to 3)

For students aspiring to attend domestic universities:

Over two years, Nisai will cultivate English proficiency and specialized knowledge that serve as strong assets for university admissions. For domestic university admissions, students develop English proficiency and obtain advanced qualifications such as the Cambridge English Examinations or Eiken, which can be a great advantage.

For students aspiring to attend universities abroad:

Students select subjects such as English, mathematics, and psychology to develop the academic skills necessary for their desired university admissions for two years. International A-levels qualifications, highly esteemed by universities and companies worldwide, serve as the passport for success on the global stage. Detailed information about the acceptance status of International qualifications at universities worldwide can be found in the database.

 

AS & A-level First Year AS Level English (Target: Ages 16 to 17, High School Years 1 to 2)

AS Level English

Unit 1 Introduction
Duration 21 hours
Objective Vocabulary and semantics, structural patterns, practical language, discourse
Unit 2 Constituent Elements 1
Duration 24 hours
Objective Exploration of vocabulary and grammar features, analysis, generation, and influence
Unit 3 Constituent Elements 2
Duration 18 hours
Objective Exploration of thoughts and attitudes toward original texts, critical investigation, and composition
Unit 4 Constituent Elements 3
Duration 33 hours
Objective Comparison and contrast of materials, exploration, overview of language functions
Unit 5 Preparation for A-Level
Duration 21 hours
Objective Consideration of contextual factors, summarization, overview of A-Level

AS & A-level Second Year A-Level English (Target: Ages 17 to 18, High School Years 2 to 3)

A-Level English

Unit 1 Child Language Acquisition
Duration 24 hours
Objective Discussion on phonemic development, vocabulary, grammar, practical usage, theory, and analysis
Unit 2 Language Change
Duration 15 hours
Objective Understanding and explanation of English history, standardization, vowel shifts, data analysis
Unit 3 Coursework
Duration 24 hours
Objective Research, investigation, and presentation of posters, discussion
Unit 4 Media Language
Duration 18 hours
Objective Explanation and discussion of language and power, gender, technology
Unit 5 Mock Exams and Review
Duration 15 hours
Objective Review and exam preparation

AS & A-level First Year AS Level Maths (Target: Ages 16 to 17, High School Years 1 to 2)

AS Level Maths

Unit 1 Algebra and Proof
Duration 24 hours
Objective Decomposition, rationalization, proof, problem-solving of equations
Unit 2 Coordinate Geometry
Duration 21 hours
Objective Problem-solving involving equations, trigonometric functions, sine and cosine
Unit 3 Calculus, Growth, Decay
Duration 18 hours
Objective Decomposition and application of polynomials, improvement of decay models, integration
Unit 4 Data Handling, Presentation, Interpretation
Duration 18 hours
Objective Selection and evaluation of sampling methods, interpretation, and hypothesis testing
Unit 5 Mechanics
Duration 21 hours
Objective Problem-solving in kinematics, measurement, and formulation of motion equations

AS & A-level Second Year A-Level Maths (Target: Ages 17 to 18, High School Years 2 to 3)

A-Level Maths

Unit 1 Functions
Duration 24 hours
Objective Proof, definition understanding, usage, graphing from equations
Unit 2 Trigonometry
Duration 21 hours
Objective Usage of sine, cosine, reciprocal functions, proofs
Unit 3 Numerical Methods and Kinematics
Duration 18 hours
Objective Understanding and usage of vectors, numerical methods
Unit 4 Statistics
Duration 18 hours
Objective Understanding, identification, and usage of probability, distributions, hypotheses, correlations
Unit 5 Exam Preparation
Duration 15 hours
Objective Exam preparation

AS & A-Level Timetable

AS Timetable

Japan Time Mon. Tue. Wed. Thu. Fri.
13:30-14:30 AS Sociology(9699)AS Environmental Management (8291) AS Environmental Management (8291) AS Environmental Management (8291) AS Sociology(9699)
14:50-15:50 AS Economics (9708) AS Sociology(9699) AS Economics (9708) AS Economics (9708)
17:00-18:00 AS English Language (9093) AS English Language (9093) AS Thinking Skills (9694) AS English Language (9093)
18:20-19:20 AS Thinking Skills (9694) AS Maths (9709) AS Thinking Skills (9694)
19:50-20:50 AS Maths (9709) AS Maths (9709)

A2 Timetable

Japan Time Mon. Tue. Wed. Thu. Fri.
13:30-14:30 A2 Psychology (9990) A2 Psychology (9990) A2 Psychology (9990)
14:50-15:50 A2 English Language (9093) A2 English Language (9093) A2 English Language (9093)
18:20-19:20 A2 Thinking Skills (9694) A2 Thinking Skills (9694) A2 Thinking Skills (9694)
19:50-20:50 A2 Maths (9709) A2 Maths (9709) A2 Maths (9709)

   

Annual Schedule AS Level (First Year)

Annual Schedule AS Level (First Year)

Application deadline for AS & A-Level courses

Mid-October

※At least 3 subjects and 2 years of enrollment are required for admission to universities abroad.

Activities for each subject

  • ・3 live lessons per week (1 lesson, 60 minutes each)
  • 1 assignment per week (approximately 60 minutes)
  • 3-4 self-study times per week (approximately 25 minutes each)

※Assignment and self-study times are approximate and may vary depending on individuals.

Annual Schedule A-Level (Second Year)

Annual Schedule A-Level (Second Year)

Application deadline for AS & A-Level courses

Mid-October

※At least 3 subjects and 2 years of enrollment are required for admission to universities abroad.

Activities for each subject

  • ・3 live lessons per week (1 lesson, 60 minutes each)
  • 1 assignment per week (approximately 60 minutes)
  • 3-4 self-study times per week (approximately 25 minutes each)

※Assignment and self-study times are approximate and may vary depending on individuals.

Tuition and Fees

  • AS & A-level First Year AS Level Curriculum (Target: Ages 16 to 17, High School Year 1 to 2)
  • AS & A-level Second Year A-Level Curriculum (Target: Ages 17 to 18, High School Year 2 to 3)

※Registration deadline is mid-October.

Subjects include English, Mathematics, Sociology, and others, with a choice of 6 subjects.
※For admission to universities abroad, a minimum of 3 subjects and 2 years of enrollment are required.
For each subject: 3 live lessons per week x 60 minutes plus Assignment (1 hour per week) plus Self-study (25 minutes per day)

 

 

About Units of Sound Units of Sound

Detailed explanation here

Units of Sound is an independent study program that allows learners to study at their own time.An online tool to support English language acquisition.Students can learn English by utilizing multiple senses such as listening, writing, and reading, and the program is automatically customized according to each student's English level.It is an independent study program, so learners can work on their listening and vocabulary skills at any given time, focusing on live lessons.

There is a quiz at the beginning of the program, and upon completion of the quiz, learners are automatically placed in the appropriate level for their English ability and training is provided.This helps learners build confidence in English.

With an emphasis on reading, dictation, memory, and spelling, Units of Sound has been used to support both children and adults in their English learning journey.Learners will have access to Units of Sound for 12 months, and it will be even more effective if they use it as a preparation tool before taking the main course, as well as for independent study after the live lessons begin.Learners are encouraged to study Units of Sound's self-study e-learning program at least three times each week for 25 minutes each.

Preparation for Enrollment in the Main Course!
Quickly acquire English proficiency to keep up with classes

Short-term English Skills Development Booster Course

Message

Nisai CEO: Dhruv Patel

Nisai CEO: Dhruv Patel

As head of the Nisai Group, I have been delivering student-centered education for over 25 years. Education should always be student-centered. As educators, we recognize that it is our role to deliver education that meets individual needs.

We began as a provider of education for pupils who were unable to attend school due to illness, disability, bullying, or family circumstances on the UK compulsory school curriculum. Our teachers and staff are committed to working with pupils to ensure they have strong opportunities and choices in the future.

About Nisai

In domestic international schools, the term “WASC-accredited school” is often heard. WASC is an organization headquartered in California, USA. It is an educational accreditation body that accredits schools from early years through Grade 12 (equivalent to the third year of high school), as well as colleges and universities.

Nisai is officially registered and accredited by the UK government. Nisai was also the first in the world to receive accreditation to provide British-style international education entirely online, and we have many years of experience and a long history of continuously delivering high-quality education.

All of our courses are taught by experienced international teachers. Even if students are not yet confident in English, their teachers will help them develop the four key language skills efficiently according to their current level of English proficiency.

The more students learn with Nisai, the earlier they can develop practical English skills that can be used in a global environment. Students are placed in the class best suited to their individual learning level and, by studying alongside students from around the world, they develop an international perspective and the skills needed to thrive globally. Naturally, these abilities can also be a great advantage when taking English proficiency examinations such as EIKEN. Another unique strength of Nisai’s fully online model is that students can receive an international education in a flexible, supplementary-school-style format while continuing to attend their regular domestic school.

At present, Japanese high school students are generally unable to progress directly to overseas universities after graduating from high school in the same way as many students in other countries. To study at an overseas university, students typically need to improve their English proficiency to at least IELTS 6.0 and then complete a university preparation programme, commonly known as a Foundation Course, offered by the university. Only after completing this programme do they progress to the degree course. Compared with students from some other countries, this route can require additional time and expense.

However, by studying an international A-Level programme and obtaining an internationally recognised qualification, students can demonstrate an academic level equivalent to completing a Foundation Course and may become eligible for direct entry to overseas universities. By the time students complete Nisai’s programme, they will also have developed English proficiency beyond IELTS 6.0.
We want students to understand that their future options are broad and extend beyond their own country. We hope they will develop the skills needed to achieve their goals and dreams through their studies at Nisai and later at university.

We hope that students will build their abilities through the British-style programmes we are proud to offer and expand their range of future opportunities.

Announcement

About Trial Lessons

At Nisai, we conduct a trial lesson to ensure your satisfaction before enrollment. The process includes:

  • Online information session (for parents and students)
  • Conducting a trial lesson
  • Online follow-up information session (if requested)
  • Application
       

British Program

       

Do you know about the British Program?
It may not be widely known within Japan. We will introduce the British Program briefly here.

       

There are two major international education pathways widely recognised around the world: the International Baccalaureate (IB) and British qualifications such as International GCSE and International A Level, both of which have become increasingly well known in Japan.

       

British qualifications such as International GCSE and International A Level are offered by several awarding organisations, including International and Pearson Edexcel. While the specifications may vary between awarding organisations, they are all based on the British education system and are internationally recognised.

British education is widely adopted by international schools around the world, although the level of adoption varies from country to country.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program covers a broad range of subjects, allowing students to explore knowledge across different academic areas. In contrast, International A Level allows students to select a smaller number of subjects and study them in greater depth. This flexibility enables students to focus on subjects that match their strengths, interests, and future university or career plans.

University Admission

University admissions from international schools can be broadly categorized into two types:

  • Entering Japanese universities
  • Entering universities abroad

Many international schools in Japan are not classified as schools under Article 1 of the Japanese School Education Act in the same way as Japanese elementary, junior high and high schools. As a result, the recognition of a student's educational background and eligibility for further study may depend on the school's status, the qualifications the student has obtained, and the admission requirements of the institution to which they are applying.

Entry to Japanese Universities

Students from international schools may apply to Japanese universities through a variety of admission routes. Some universities offer April entry, while others also offer September or autumn entry, particularly for international or English-taught programmes. Admission requirements vary by university and programme, so students should always check the specific requirements of the university they wish to attend.

       

International A Level is one of the international qualifications that may be used to demonstrate eligibility for university admission in Japan. Qualifications are offered by several awarding organisations, including International and Pearson Edexcel. The acceptance criteria and required grades vary between universities, so applicants should confirm the latest admission requirements directly with each institution.

Some universities in Japan also offer degree programmes taught in English and accept applications based on international qualifications such as International A Level. This gives students the opportunity to apply to both Japanese and overseas universities using internationally recognised qualifications.

       

Students attending Japanese high schools can also study International A Level subjects through Nisai alongside their Japanese school education. This allows them to work towards their Japanese high school graduation while also gaining internationally recognised qualifications, helping to broaden their options for university study in Japan and overseas.

Entry to Foreign Universities

The Cambridge database provides detailed information on the acceptance status of Cambridge International and Pearson Edexcel qualifications at universities worldwide.

United Kingdom

International AS & A Levels are equivalent to those taken by UK students, and admission to UK universities is recognized in the same way as UK A-Levels. In most universities, having at least three A-level qualifications is a requirement for admission. Furthermore, specific grades in certain subjects are often required for many courses.

United States

International A Level qualifications, including those offered by awarding organisations such as International and Pearson Edexcel, are recognised by many universities across the United States, including leading institutions. Admission requirements vary by university and programme, and some universities may also award college credit or advanced standing for strong International A Level results. Students should check the specific admission and credit policies of each institution before applying.

Canada

International A Level qualifications are widely recognised by universities and colleges across Canada. Admission requirements vary depending on the institution and programme, including the number of subjects, required grades and any subject-specific prerequisites. Some institutions may also award university credit or advanced standing for certain International A Level results. Students should confirm the latest requirements directly with their chosen university.

Singapore

International A Level qualifications are recognised by universities in Singapore and provide an established pathway to higher education. Entry requirements, including required subjects and grades, vary by university and degree programme, so students should check the specific requirements of the institution they wish to attend.

Australia

International A Level qualifications are widely recognised by universities across Australia and may be used for direct entry to undergraduate degree programmes. Entry requirements vary by university and course, and some programmes may require specific subjects or grades. Students should check the latest admission requirements directly with their chosen institution.

Your options are open to the world. Consider studying at Nisai to broaden your horizons and gain access to more opportunities. It's undeniable that the learning experience at Nisai will be a significant asset even in your future career.

※International AS & A Levels are taken annually by 175,000 students from 125 countries. Each learning program follows the British curriculum and is designed to prepare students for entry into foreign universities (equivalent to the first year of university study). A-Level qualifications are internationally recognized and serve as proof of academic ability required for admission to overseas universities. Holding A-Level qualifications expands options for attending foreign universities and greatly enhances prospects in the job market.

FAQ

What are AS & A-Levels?

The A-Level (Advanced Level) program is a two-year program designed for students aged 16 to 19 (high school students) before entering university. Completion of the AS Level program requires one year of study, while completion of the A-Level program requires a total of two years, including the AS program. International AS & A-Levels are recognized as passports to education, university, and employment.

Features of A-Level Courses

What are the benefits of having A-Level qualifications domestically?

In Japan, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology recognizes A-Level qualifications as eligibility for university entrance examinations. Currently, there are still few universities in Japan that offer preferential treatment to students with these qualifications. However, having A-Levels allows for challenging exams that capitalize on global English proficiency, serving as a significant advantage. It also opens up opportunities to pursue English-language degrees. Stepping outside Japan, International A-Levels are highly valued by universities and companies worldwide, serving as a passport to global success.

Details on University Admission

What is required to take international A-Level exams?

To prepare for desired university admissions, students select subjects such as English, literature, mathematics, and economics, and study the curriculum over two years. Upon completing the first year's AS Level program, students take the AS international exams, followed by the A-Level international exams upon completion of the second-year A-Level program.

Are there mandatory subjects?

For admission to overseas universities, students must study and take exams in at least three subjects. The required subjects vary depending on the university and field of study. Students are expected to gather information relevant to their desired path and take the necessary subjects accordingly, marking the beginning of their journey toward overseas university admission.(For more information, refer to the University Search Database in the High School Student Course "Entering Overseas Universities.")

About Overseas University Admissions (University Search Database)

Can high A-Level grades lead to admission to top universities worldwide?

High A-Level grades can directly lead to admission to some of the world's top universities. However, admission criteria for top universities worldwide vary. Some universities assess admissions based on comprehensive factors beyond A-Level grades, including extracurricular activities and essays. Therefore, it's crucial to thoroughly research information about the desired university and prepare accordingly for its admission criteria, as the standards vary greatly by country, university, and faculty.

Details on University Admission