Can I Study A Levels Online from Outside the UK?
Can I Study A Levels Online from Outside the UK?
Created:Updated: 13-September-2025
Wondering if you can complete your A Levels while living or travelling abroad? Here’s what international students, expats, and UK families overseas need to know — and what to check before you enrol.
Is it possible to study A Levels online from abroad?
Yes. With a reliable internet connection, you can enrol and complete A Level courses from almost anywhere. Lessons, resources, assignments and tutor support are delivered online — so you can study at home overseas or while travelling.
Who is this for?
- International students seeking UK-recognised qualifications
- British expats or families posted overseas
- Gap-year travellers planning to sit exams on return to the UK
- Students relocating temporarily or permanently
How do exams work outside the UK?
- UK A Level exams (AQA, Pearson Edexcel, OCR) must be sat in person at an approved exam centre.
- Some large international cities have centres that accept private candidates for UK boards — check availability locally before enrolling.
- If there’s no local centre, you may need to travel to the UK (or another country with a centre) for your exams.
- You must meet entry deadlines and any practical/coursework requirements just like UK-based students.
Helpful starting point: JCQ private candidates page (exam-centre guidance for England/Wales/NI).
What about practical or coursework subjects?
- Science A Levels may require a Practical Endorsement. Centres offering this outside the UK are less common — you may need to travel.
- For coursework subjects, confirm submission and authentication arrangements with your provider and chosen centre.
Top tips for international A Level students
- Check for exam centres first: verify your subject and exam board are supported locally.
- Contact centres early: spaces can be limited; admin can take longer overseas.
- Budget for travel/visa costs: you may need to fly to a centre for written papers or practicals.
- Mind the deadlines: summer entries usually close Jan/Feb.
- Keep us informed: tell us your location so we can advise on centres and timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sit UK A Level exams outside the UK?
Sometimes — if an approved centre in your country accepts private candidates for your exam board. If not, you’ll need to travel.
Will my certificate show that I studied online or abroad?
No. Certificates show the subject, grade and exam board — not how or where you studied.
Do I need the Practical Endorsement for sciences?
Many science-related degrees expect it. Availability overseas is limited, so plan to travel if required.
What about visas and travel?
If travelling to the UK (or another country) to sit exams or practicals, ensure you have the appropriate visa and documents in good time.