Transitioning into Upper Secondary is a defining moment for many students—especially those preparing to enter the academically rigorous A Level pathway.

At YCIS Qingdao, our Pre-A Level Programme provides a dedicated one-year foundation designed to help students strengthen their academic English, develop essential subject knowledge, and build the study habits required to thrive in Years 12–13.

Whether students come from bilingual schools, international curricula, or non-English academic backgrounds, Pre-A Level offers the structure and support they need to step confidently into the next stage of their learning journey.

Why Pre-A Level at YCIS Qingdao?

A Strong Academic Foundation for A Level

Pre-A Level equips students with the key skills and subject readiness needed for success in A Level. Throughout the year, learners strengthen their abilities in:

• Academic English
• Mathematics
• Sciences
• Business and Humanities

Students develop confidence in handling extended writing, data analysis, critical thinking, and the independent research that A Level coursework demands.

A Learning Experience Aligned with A Level Expectations

The programme introduces students to the style, pace, and methods used in A Level classrooms:

• Inquiry-led learning
• Analytical problem-solving
• Structured academic writing
• Note-taking and organisation
• Time management and self-directed study

By the end of the year, students not only understand what A Level requires—they are prepared to excel in it.

Balanced Subject Structure: Breadth Before Specialisation

With 60 lessons per fortnight, the programme mirrors the rhythm of A Level while offering exposure to a broad range of subjects:

This structure gives students the opportunity to discover their strengths and interests before selecting their A Level subject combination—one of the most influential decisions affecting future university pathways.

Who Is Pre-A Level Designed For?

This programme is ideal for students aged 15+ (Year 11 / Grade 10), especially those who:

• Intend to pursue the A Level pathway

• Seek stronger academic English skills

• Need time to transition into an English-medium curriculum

• Are coming from Korean, Russian, European, bilingual, or non-international school systems

• Want exposure to multiple subjects before choosing A Level combinations

Students from non-English curricula benefit greatly from the structured transition, gaining familiarity with international assessment styles and classroom expectations.

Guaranteed Pathway into A Level

Upon successful completion of Pre-A Level and meeting the required standards, students progress directly to YCIS Qingdao’s A Level Programme (Year 12–13).

This seamless pathway ensures continuity in learning and stability in long-term academic planning.