International High School
International High School
About the International High School Diploma
Why the Cambridge International Pathway?
The Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level qualifications are administered by Cambridge Assessment International Education — part of the University of Cambridge in the UK — and are among the most widely-recognised academic qualifications in the world.
Unlike national qualifications tied to a single country, the Cambridge pathway is recognised by universities and employers in over 160 countries, giving students the freedom to pursue higher education anywhere in the world. The curriculum is internationally benchmarked, university-aligned, and respected for its academic rigour.
Our Three-Year Progression
Our International High School Diploma is structured as a progressive three-year pathway. Students can join at the grade that matches their current education level, and continue upward through the programme:
Grade 10 — Cambridge IGCSE Foundation level. Covers core subjects including English, Mathematics, Sciences, and electives. Leads to the internationally-recognised Cambridge IGCSE qualification at the end of Year 10.
Grade 11 — Cambridge AS-Level (Year 1) Pre-university level, Year 1. Students select specialised AS-Level subjects and begin in-depth study. Prepares students for Grade 12 final examinations.
Grade 12 — Cambridge A-Level (Year 2) Pre-university level, Year 2. Continued in-depth study and intensive examination preparation. Leads to the Cambridge A-Level qualification — the standard university entry qualification accepted worldwide.
What Makes Our Programme Different
Continuous Three-Year Pathway
Begin at Grade 10 and progress seamlessly through Grade 11 and Grade 12 under one roof. Same teaching team, same academic support, same school philosophy — no disruption between qualification levels.
Cambridge-Aligned Curriculum
Our teaching is structured around official Cambridge syllabi, with experienced teachers who understand Cambridge’s assessment requirements and learning outcomes.
Regular Progress Tracking
End-of-term examinations, subject-specific quizzes, and pre-Cambridge mock examinations give students and parents clear visibility on progress throughout the programme.
Globally Recognised Qualifications
Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level qualifications are accepted by universities and employers in 160+ countries — giving graduates flexibility to pursue higher education anywhere in the world.
Why Choose Spring College International
Established in 2001, Spring College International has spent over two decades supporting international students through Singapore’s academic system and Cambridge international qualifications. Here’s why families choose us for their child’s international high school education:
EduTrust-Certified PEI
Spring College International is registered with SkillsFuture Singapore and holds the prestigious EduTrust certification, meeting the highest quality standards in Singapore's private education sector.
Two Decades of Experience
Established in 2001, SCI has spent over 20 years supporting international students through Singapore's academic system and Cambridge international qualifications.
Small Class Sizes
Classes are conducted in small groups to ensure personalised attention. Teachers can identify each student's weak areas early and provide targeted coaching to address them.
Student Pass Support
As an EduTrust-certified PEI, we sponsor Student Pass applications for international students enrolled in our full-time courses, handling the ICA process for you.
Bilingual Family Support
Our team supports families in both English and Chinese — easing communication for parents navigating Singapore's education system from overseas.
Two Central Campuses
Choose between our Jurong East campus and Bishan campus, both within 5 minutes of MRT stations and bus interchanges.
Programme description:
The Grade 10 programme prepares students for the Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) — a globally-recognised secondary-level qualification accepted by universities and educational institutions in 160+ countries. Students build strong academic foundations across English, Mathematics, Sciences, and Business — preparing them for Grade 11 and the Cambridge A-Level pathway.
Students typically take 4-5 IGCSE subjects from the following:
Core subjects:
- English Language (0500)
- Mathematics (9709)
- Physics (9702)
- Chemistry (9701)
Elective subjects:
- Sciences – Coordinated Double (0654)
- Additional Mathematics (0606)
- Biology (0610)
- Economics (0455)
- Computer Science (0478)
- English as a second language (0511)
- Chinese (0509)
*Subject availability subject to enrolment numbers and academic team approval.
Entry Requirements:
Age
Students must be 15 years old and above at the time of enrolment.
Academic Level
Student must have successfully completed Singapore Secondary 3 or equivalent
Language Proficiency
Obtained a pass in English at Secondary 3 level or equivalent in country of origin, or a pass in SCI’s English placement test.
Duration:
- 12 months
- Mode: Full-time
- Lesson time: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm
- Intake: March, April, September, October
No classes during public holidays and school holidays.
Programme description:
The Grade 11 programme is the first year of the Cambridge A-Level — Cambridge’s pre-university qualification recognised by universities worldwide. Students choose specialised subject combinations and begin in-depth academic study. The programme builds the foundation knowledge and exam techniques needed for the Grade 12 final examinations.
Students typically take 3–4 A-Level subjects from the following:
Core subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics (9709)
- Physics (9702)
- Chemistry (9701)
Elective subjects:
- Biology (9700)
- Economics (9708)
- Further Mathematics (9231)
- Computer Science (9618)
- Chinese language (AS Level only) (8681)
- Chinese (A Level) (9715)
Subject availability subject to enrolment numbers and academic team approval.
Entry Requirements:
Age
Students must be 16 years old and above at the time of enrolment.
Academic Level
Student must have successfully completed Singapore Secondary 4 or equivalent
Language Proficiency
Obtained a pass in English at Secondary 4 level or equivalent in country of origin, or a pass in SCI’s English placement test.
Duration:
- 12 months
- Mode: Full-time
- Lesson time: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm
- Intake: March, April, September, October
No classes during public holidays and school holidays.
Programme description:
The Grade 12 programme is the second year of the Cambridge A-Level — the year students sit their final Cambridge A-Level examinations. Building on Grade 11 foundations, students complete the A-Level syllabus, undertake intensive past-paper practice, and prepare for the November exam series. Successful completion leads to the Cambridge A-Level certificate — the standard university entry qualification accepted in Singapore and worldwide.
Students typically take 3–4 A-Level subjects from the following:
Core subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics (9709)
- Physics (9702)
- Chemistry (9701)
Elective subjects:
- Biology (9700)
- Economics (9708)
- Further Mathematics (9231)
- Computer Science (9618)
- Chinese language (AS Level only) (8681)
- Chinese (A Level) (9715)
Subject availability subject to enrolment numbers and academic team approval.
Entry Requirements:
Age
Students must be 17 years old and above at the time of enrolment.
Academic Level
Student must have successfully completed Singapore Junior College 1 or equivalent
Language Proficiency
Obtained a pass in English at Singapore Junior College 1 or equivalent in country of origin; OR at least IELTS 5.0; OR a pass in SCI’s English placement test
Duration:
- 12 months
- Mode: Full-time
- Lesson time: Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm
- Intake: March, April, September, October
No classes during public holidays and school holidays.
Mode of Assessment
Internal Assessment
- Placement test at enrolment
- End-of-term examinations
- Subject-specific quizzes and tutorials
- Pre-Cambridge mock examinations
- Homework and assignments
External Assessment
- Cambridge IGCSE Examinations (end of Grade 10)
- Cambridge A-Level Examinations (end of Grade 12)
- Exam series: May/June and October/November each year
University Pathways After Graduation
Cambridge A-Level graduates from our International High School Diploma can apply to universities in Singapore and worldwide. The qualification is accepted by:
Singapore:
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
- Singapore Management University (SMU)
- Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
- Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
- Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)
- Private universities and university partner institutions
United Kingdom:
- All UK universities accept Cambridge A-Level for undergraduate admission
- Russell Group universities (Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, LSE, UCL, and others)
Other countries:
- Australia, Canada, New Zealand (Commonwealth pathway)
- United States (with SAT/ACT as additional requirement at many institutions)
- Most European universities, Hong Kong, and other Asian university systems
Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level qualifications are accepted by universities and educational institutions in over 160 countries worldwide — giving SCI graduates the freedom to pursue higher education in Singapore, the UK, Australia, the United States, and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Cambridge IGCSE and Singapore O-Level?
Both are secondary-level qualifications, but they serve different audiences. Cambridge IGCSE is a globally portable qualification administered by Cambridge Assessment International Education, recognised in 160+ countries. Singapore O-Level is a national qualification co-administered by Cambridge, MOE Singapore, and SEAB — designed primarily for entry into Singapore’s tertiary education system. IGCSE is generally preferred by students planning to study abroad; O-Level is preferred by students planning to enter Singapore JCs or Polytechnics.
What is the difference between Cambridge A-Level and Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Level?
Both lead to A-Level qualifications, but the syllabuses and exam administrators differ. Cambridge A-Level (offered through our Grade 11 and 12 programmes) is the international Cambridge qualification administered directly by Cambridge Assessment International Education. Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Level is co-administered by Cambridge and Singapore’s SEAB, designed specifically for entry into Singapore’s local universities. Cambridge A-Level is generally preferred by students planning to study overseas; Singapore-Cambridge A-Level is preferred by students targeting NUS, NTU, or SMU.
Which grade should my child start at?
Start at Grade 10 if your child has completed Year 9 (or equivalent) in their home country. Start at Grade 11 if your child has already completed IGCSE, O-Level, or equivalent secondary qualifications. Start at Grade 12 only if your child has successfully completed Year 1 of A-Level (or AS Level) at another institution. Our admissions team can review your child’s previous qualifications and recommend the right entry point.
How long is the complete pathway from Grade 10 to Grade 12?
The complete pathway is approximately three years — one year per grade. Students who start at Grade 10 typically graduate with their Cambridge A-Level certificate three years later. Students who enter at Grade 11 with IGCSE or O-Level take approximately two years to complete the A-Level.
Can international students join on a Student Pass?
Yes. As an EduTrust-certified PEI, Spring College International is authorised to sponsor Student Pass applications for international students enrolled in our full-time courses. Our admissions team handles the full process with ICA, which typically takes 4 weeks.
How many subjects should my child take at each grade?
At Grade 10 (IGCSE), most students take 4–5 subjects covering core areas plus electives. At Grade 11 and 12 (A-Level), students typically focus on 3–4 specialised subjects matched to their intended university pathway. Subject selection is important — speak with our admissions team to plan combinations that align with target university courses.
Where are the Cambridge exams held?
Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level exams in Singapore are held at accredited Cambridge exam centres. Our team handles the registration process for our students, including required documentation and exam logistics. Exam fees are typically charged separately by the exam centre and not included in the tuition fee.
How are Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level exams graded?
Cambridge IGCSE subjects are graded from A* (highest) to G, with A* to C considered strong passes. Cambridge A-Level subjects are graded from A* (highest) to E, with A* to E considered passes. Universities typically look for specific grades in relevant subjects — for example, a competitive UK university course may require A*AA at A-Level.
Can students apply to Singapore local universities (NUS, NTU, SMU) with a Cambridge A-Level?
Yes. NUS, NTU, SMU, and other Singapore universities accept Cambridge A-Level qualifications for undergraduate admission, alongside Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-Level. Each university publishes its own minimum grade requirements for different courses — our admissions team can provide guidance on competitive grades for your child’s target courses.
What if my child wants to transfer between grades or switch subjects?
Students can transfer between programmes at appropriate transition points (typically end of Grade 10 to Grade 11, or with academic review). Subject changes within Grade 11 to Grade 12 are generally not recommended due to syllabus continuity — Cambridge A-Level is a two-year linear programme designed for continuous study of the same subjects. For exceptional cases, speak with our academic team.