The Cambridge Pathway

Cambridge International stages aligned to US K-12 grades

Cambridge International offers a fully integrated and flexible K-12 educational system—the Cambridge Pathway—that brings together globally recognized teaching and learning with meaningful assessments that measure student mastery. Each stage of the Cambridge Pathway builds on learners’ development from the previous one. Schools can offer any of the four stages and any of the courses, alongside other curricula.

Our flexible curriculum empowers teachers to reach students from a variety of backgrounds across a range of ability levels. High-achieving students are challenged with some of the most rigorous college-level coursework available in the US. Students who need more support, including English Language Learners, get the scaffolding and support to help them succeed.

The four stages of the Cambridge Pathway correspond to elementary, middle, and high school, and advanced academics in high school.

Cambridge Primary—Grades K-5

Elementary schools use Cambridge Primary curricula and assessments in 10 subject areas that can be offered in any combination. Courses may be paired with formative assessments and summative assessments including Cambridge Checkpoint for grade 5.

More about Cambridge Primary.

Cambridge Lower Secondary—Grades 6-8

Middle school grades can implement Cambridge Lower Secondary in 10 subject areas to provide a balanced curriculum and prepare students for the next stage. Courses may be paired with formative assessments and summative assessments, including Cambridge Checkpoint for grade 8. 

More about Cambridge Lower Secondary.

Cambridge Pre-Advanced—Grades 9 and up

Typically offered in early high school, Cambridge Pre-Advanced (IGCSE) prepares students for college-level courses and exams. A full complement of Cambridge IGCSE courses is equivalent to a US high school diploma. Courses in 59 subjects are available in the US in both core academic and career and technical subject areas. 

More about Cambridge Pre-Advanced.

Cambridge Advanced—Grades 9 and up

Cambridge Advanced (International AS & A Level) offers college-level courses and exams for high school students. With 44 subjects currently available in the US, schools can offer a range of both core academic and career and technical subjects. Students can earn credit and advanced placement from colleges and universities in the US and worldwide. Students who pass Cambridge International AS & A Level exams in four subject areas can also earn the Cambridge AICE Diploma.

More about Cambridge Advanced.