Guide to Cambridge courses and exams for US higher education

Cambridge International AS & A Level courses and exams prepare US high school students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in college and university. Rigorously developed to meet highest standards, the Cambridge curriculum brings college-level work to students, typically in their last two years of high school. Many subjects can be started as a Cambridge International AS Level and extended to an A Level. The Cambridge AICE Diploma recognizes students with exceptional achievements in Cambridge International AS & A Level exams.

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Cambridge International AS Level courses and exams

Cambridge International AS Level is typically a one-year course in high school with 180 teaching hours. The courses and exams equate to a one-semester undergraduate course, equivalent to 3-4 college credits for a passing grade of e or higher.

AS Level grades compared to US letter grades

AS Level recommended college credit

Cambridge International A Level courses and exams

Cambridge International A Level is typically a two-year course in high school with 360 teaching hours. The courses and exams equate to two semesters of undergraduate level courses, equivalent to 6-8 college credits for a passing grade of E or higher. Most Cambridge US high schools offer one or two A Level courses, although some offer a wider range depending on their capacity.

A Level grades compared to US letter grades

A Level recommended college credit

Cambridge AICE Diploma

The Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education Diploma (AICE) program is a rigorous academic curriculum that recognizes achievement in Cambridge International AS & A Levels.

To receive the Cambridge AICE Diploma students must attain seven or more Cambridge credits in three subject groups. Credits may be earned with passing marks in Cambridge International AS & A Level exams. For passing AS Level grades, students receive one credit, for A Level they receive two credits.

Cambridge AICE Diploma requirements

The Cambridge AICE Diploma is awarded at three levels: Pass, Merit and Distinction. Students receive the Cambridge AICE Diploma certificate in addition to their Cambridge International AS & A Level exam results. For an overview, view the Cambridge AICE Diploma Fact Sheet (PDF, 252KB). Learn more about the Cambridge AICE Diploma.

Cambridge IGCSE

Some US schools consider the Cambridge IGCSE to fulfill high school graduation requirements. Cambridge IGCSE is the world's most popular international curriculum for students aged 14 to 16 years (generally 9th and 10th graders in the US). It is recognized by leading universities, further education institutions and employers around the world as evidence of academic achievement. For an overview, view the Cambridge IGCSE Guide for Universities fact sheet (PDF, 1MB) or learn more about Cambridge IGCSE.

Other programs

In addition to Cambridge International AS & A Level, the Cambridge AICE Diploma, and Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge administers programs outside the US such as Cambridge Pre-U, Cambridge O-level, and assessments for lower grades. Learn about all Cambridge programs.