Cambridge Advanced - International AS & A Level Programme

Ages 16–18 | Years 11–12

Cambridge Advanced is ISW’s senior secondary programme for students preparing for university and future pathways around the world. Students study a focused set of advanced subjects and develop the knowledge, independence and thinking skills needed for success beyond school.

Cambridge International AS & A Levels are recognised by universities internationally, including in the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Germany and many other countries.

What are AS & A Levels?

Cambridge International AS & A Levels are subject-based qualifications usually taken in the final two years of secondary school.

An AS Level is usually completed after one year of study. A full A Level is usually completed over two years and includes both AS and A2 content.

At ISW, the programme is structured as follows:

  • In Year 11, students usually study four subjects and sit AS Level examinations.
  • In Year 12, students usually continue with three of these subjects and complete the full A Level.
  • Students typically graduate with three full A Levels and one AS Level, depending on their individual pathway.

This structure gives students breadth in Year 11 and depth in Year 12.

Subjects at ISW

ISW currently offers Cambridge Advanced subjects through option blocks. Current subject areas include:

  • English or German
  • Chemistry or Economics
  • Biology
  • Mathematics

The final subject offer is reviewed each year based on student needs, university pathways, staffing and examination requirements.

Learning at Cambridge Advanced Level

The Cambridge Advanced programme helps students develop:

  • In-depth subject knowledge
  • Independent thinking
  • Logical and coherent argument
  • Analysis and evaluation
  • Evidence-based judgement
  • Clear written and spoken communication
  • The ability to apply knowledge to new and complex situations

These skills are important not only for examinations, but also for university, work and life beyond school.

Assessment and Grades

Cambridge International AS & A Level examinations are externally set and marked by Cambridge International Education. Examination sessions usually take place in June and November, with results issued in August and January.

AS Level results are awarded on a scale from a to e, with a as the highest grade.

A Level results are awarded on a scale from A* to E, with A* as the highest grade.

Students who wish to improve a result may be able to re-sit an examination in a later exam series, depending on the subject and examination entry rules.

University Recognition

Cambridge International AS & A Levels are recognised by universities around the world. In the UK, all universities accept Cambridge qualifications. In the US, over 1000 universities formally accept Cambridge International AS & A Levels, including all Ivy League and Ivy Plus universities.

In some countries, including the United States and Canada, strong results in carefully chosen A Level subjects may also lead to university credit or advanced standing. Families should always check the exact entry requirements for the specific country, university and course their child is considering.

To access information on recognition in your own country, please click on the following link “Recognition and credit policy search” (https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition-search/)

Studying in Germany

For students considering university in Germany, A Level subject choice is especially important. Current Cambridge guidance for Germany states that applicants usually need three academic, independent A Level subjects with a minimum grade C.

Subject-specific requirements apply depending on the chosen university course. For example, medicine, engineering, business, humanities or science pathways may require particular subject combinations.

AS Levels may strengthen an application, but they cannot normally replace one of the three required A Levels for German university entrance. ISW works with students and families to help them choose subjects that keep future pathways open.

High School Diploma and Graduation

The ISW High School Diploma recognises successful completion of the school’s senior secondary programme. Cambridge International AS & A Levels provide the external academic qualifications that support university entrance.

The High School Diploma should be understood as a school graduation award, while AS & A Levels are the internationally recognised examination qualifications used for university applications.

Personal Development Programme

The Cambridge Advanced programme at ISW is not only about examination results. Students continue to develop as independent, reflective and capable young adults.

Through coaching, careers guidance, project work and personal development opportunities, students build the confidence and skills needed for university, employment and life beyond school.

Crafting the Future: Coaching at ISW

At International School Westpfalz (ISW) in Landstuhl, we don’t just teach; we inspire. We believe in a partnership where we craft the future together with our students. Within our flourishing community, every student in the Secondary Years is paired with a personal coach—a mentor dedicated to unlocking their unique potential and turning aspirations into reality.

A Roadmap to Excellence

Our coaching culture is the heartbeat of ISW. It is a visionary approach built on mutual respect and the pursuit of excellence. We move beyond traditional boundaries to ensure our students are architects of their own success through:

Bespoke Goal Setting

Exploring dreams and passions to set ambitious, personalized milestones.

Innovative Learning

Utilizing flexible timetables and "knowledge compacting" to maximize efficiency and leave room for creative exploration.

Empowered Development

Fostering the social, emotional, and academic resilience needed for a global stage.

The Gateway to Global Opportunity near Ramstein Air Base

Ideally located for families at Ramstein Air Base, ISW provides a stable yet dynamic anchor for students in a changing world. The coach serves as the primary visionary partner—a "first port of call" who navigates academic challenges and personal growth with equal dedication.

By matching coaches and students based on shared passions and life experiences, we create a powerful synergy. Together, we ensure every student undergoes a holistic transformation, ready to lead and thrive in the world of tomorrow

Individualized Career Pathways

At International School Westpfalz (ISW) in Landstuhl, we believe that a career is not just a destination, but a masterpiece to be designed. We provide a unique educational ecosystem where our American, German, and International communities converge. This rich cultural crossroads allows us to cater to diverse, highly individualized career pathways, ensuring every student finds their place in a globalized world.

Curating Success Through Connection

Our approach to careers goes beyond the classroom; it is a curated experience embedded in our institutional system. We bridge the gap between education and the professional world through: Personalized Coaching where every student’s journey is guided by professional mentors who help align their academic choices with their long-term visionary goals.

A Flourishing Community of Global Citizens

Our location near Ramstein Air Base makes us a melting pot of global perspectives. We don’t just observe internationalism; we live it. By celebrating the fusion of American, German, and international values, we create a flourishing community that breathes diversity. This environment empowers students to understand global application processes and workplace cultures from day one.

Crafting the Future Together

Whether a student is aiming for a university in the US, an apprenticeship in Germany, or a creative path abroad, we provide the "next steps" to empower their potential. From selecting the right A-levels to mastering CV development and interview techniques, our system ensures students find happiness and purpose beyond formal education.