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Article November 3, 2023

How online school affects university admissions

By King's InterHigh

If you’re considering studying for your A-levels or the International Baccalaureate with an online school, you may be asking the question "Can I get to university with online school?" and wondering what impact this choice could have when it's time to start your university applications.

What do universities think of online schools?

University’s view qualifications from an online school in equal measure to those achieved in a traditional school. Whether you’re taking A-levels or the International Baccalaureate, these qualifications are universally recognised and accepted by universities in the UK and internationally.

The qualifications you earn from an accredited online school are worth the same amount of UCAS points as they would be from a traditional school.

This means that when you apply to university, admissions officers will evaluate your application based on your grades and The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) points, regardless of if they were earned online or in a physical Sixth Form or college.

Students who choose online schooling demonstrate qualities that are highly valued by universities. These include being self-motivated, adaptive, and good at independent learning. These skills not only help you in your pre-university studies but are also qualities that will serve you well in a university setting.

The Flexibility of Online Schooling

When it comes to university admissions, the subjects you choose for your A-levels or International Baccalaureate can be a deciding factor. Online schools often provide a broader range of subject options compared to traditional schools, sometimes even offering courses that aren’t available in a conventional educational setting. This flexibility allows you to tailor your education more closely to your future university course, giving you a competitive edge in the admissions process.

If you’re finishing your GCSEs and are uncertain about your future academic path, online schooling offers the freedom to explore various subjects. You can delve into areas that genuinely interest you, helping you discover your passion and shape your educational and career trajectory. This tailored approach can make your university application more compelling, as it demonstrates a focused and intentional educational journey.

Quality of Education

When it comes to getting a good online education, quality online schools offer an excellent standard. A good online school will follow the national curriculum and have subject specialist teachers. At King’s InterHigh, the UK’s leading online school, we’re proud that 48% of our graduates have gone to Russell Group Universities.

Lessons are available for rewatching 24/7, giving you the chance to revisit any material you find challenging. This is a great perk if you’re aiming for top grades in your A-levels or International Baccalaureate. Online schools also offer plenty of support to help you succeed, including extra-curricular activities and social opportunities on their own safe platforms.

"My time at [King’s] InterHigh has made me a more involved learner, allowed me to explore my interests, both academic and non-academic, and given me a sense of independence."

Leana

2021 ALUMNUS

So, if you’re pondering your next educational steps, rest assured that choosing online schooling won’t negatively impact your university applications. In fact, online learning gives you a unique set of skills that can make you stand out from other applicants. Just make sure you opt for a reputable online school that can help you achieve the grades you need to secure a spot at the university of your choice.

King’s InterHigh is the UK’s leading online school. Our Sixth Form offers A Levels and the IB Diploma, for students aged 16 to 19.

By King's InterHigh

King’s InterHigh is an independent British international online school. Offering Primary, Secondary and Sixth Form education, we cater to students from age 7 – 18 who are looking for a high quality British education delivered in a way that revolves around their lifestyle.

VAT charges explained

The UK Government has implemented a policy to charge VAT on independent schools taking effect from the 1st of January 2025. This VAT charge is payable by families who are based in, or access, King’s InterHigh from the UK. This change does not impact families who are based outside the UK and access King’s InterHigh from another country.

We understand the significant financial commitment you make in choosing our online school as well as how important it is to be able to financially plan. After careful review of the details of the legislation, we will support parents by absorbing costs ourselves, so that a slower phasing in of this unwelcome change reduces its financial impact on families.

For the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year (starting September 2024), Inspired Education Group will absorb much of the 20% VAT charge. For the Spring and Summer terms when the 20% VAT will now apply, we will only pass on 8.5% to families, taking up the difference ourselves.

To further support families with the financial implications of this change in government policy, for the 2025-2026 academic year (starting in September 2025) there will be no inflationary tuition fee increases, and that Inspired Education Group will continue to absorb costs to limit the increase to 8.5% for that academic year. Overall, this will mean we have phased in 17% of the 20% VAT cost over two years to avoid sudden increases for families and have not increased tuition fees.

King’s InterHigh is committed to offering competitive fees and accessible, high-quality independent education, along with the unique benefits of online learning. We are pleased that through careful cost control and the benefits of being part of Inspired, the leading global group of premium schools, we can significantly reduce the financial effect on families due to this change in UK VAT policy.

For a full breakdown of our fees, please use our fees calculator.

Technology integration fee

This fee contributes to the development of our Inspired Al tools and our investment in best-in-class technology to enhance online student learning.

Deposit fee

If opting for monthly payments, a deposit will be held on your account.