Curriculum

Cambridge Pre-U is available in 24 Principal Subjects. Each Principal Subject is a two-year programme of study with exams at the end. Short Courses (typically one-year programmes) are also available in some subjects.

We developed Cambridge Pre-U with input from universities and higher education. All syllabuses develop in-depth subject knowledge and skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, team working, independent learning and effective communication.

Schools can enrich their curriculum by offering Cambridge Pre-U Global Perspectives and Research (GPR). This is taught as two successive one-year courses: Global Perspectives develops research and thinking skills during the first year, preparing students for the extended project in the second year (the Research Report). Learners can achieve the Cambridge Pre-U Diploma by taking Cambridge Pre-U GPR with three Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects (one or two can be substituted for A Levels).

Flexibility is a key feature of Cambridge Pre-U. Students can choose any combination of subjects, and can combine Cambridge Pre-U with A Level qualifications.

Schools tell us that Cambridge Pre-U offers genuinely interesting syllabuses, and is stimulating for both teachers and learners.

Educational aims of Cambridge Pre-U

Cambridge Pre-U is underpinned by a clear set of educational aims:

• Encouraging the development of well-informed, open and independent-minded individuals
• Promoting deep understanding through subject specialisation, with a depth and rigour appropriate to progression to higher education
• Helping learners to acquire specific skills of problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, team-working, independent learning and effective communication
• Recognising the wide range of individual talents and interests
• Promoting an international outlook and cross-cultural awareness.