WORLDWIDE CULTUREL
EXCHANGE PROGRAM
High
School

UK MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM

In the United Kingdom, Primary Education and Lower Secondary Education fall under the scope of compulsory education. While compulsory schooling originally covered children between the ages of 5 and 16, one of the most significant recent reforms extended this requirement to include two additional years of education—making school attendance compulsory until the age of 18.

The structure of the UK education system is as follows:

• Pre-School – Not compulsory
• Reception (Nursery/Kindergarten) – Not compulsory
• Primary School – Compulsory
• Secondary School – Compulsory
• Further Education / Sixth Form / College – Compulsory
• Higher Education (University) – Not compulsory

At the end of Year 11, students take GCSE exams (General Certificate of Secondary Education) in core and elective subjects. There is no maximum number of subjects, but taking exams in at least 5 to 6 subjects is common, as success in these exams plays a critical role in admission to vocational schools, universities, and even job placements.

For university entry, students must complete their A Level exams at the end of Year 13. There are no strict minimum or maximum limits on the number of A Level subjects; students choose based on their strengths and future academic plans. Unlike in many countries, there is no central university entrance exam system in the UK. Each university sets its own admission criteria, specifying the required A Level subjects and grades. For highly competitive programs or prestigious institutions, universities may also administer their own entrance exams.

Exchange Opportunities for International Students

The United Kingdom offers high school exchange opportunities to international students aged approximately 16 to 18, allowing them to participate in the academic and cultural life of the country for one or more academic years.

Students are placed with volunteer host families approved by the Department of State and are enrolled in the nearest local public high school. Exchange students may attend school during Year 11 and/or Year 12, with the option to complete qualifications that can support further education applications.