Study anywhere, anytime with NEC
When you enrol, you’ll get a personal subject tutor to support you, answer questions, mark assignments, and provide feedback to help you track your progress.
International GCSEs and A levels are ideal for distance learning as they don’t require controlled assessments or coursework, making them easier to manage outside the UK. For exams, we recommend contacting the British Council in your country or nearby international schools. Check out our International Exams Handbook for details.
Edexcel and CAIE International GCSEs and A levels are fully equivalent to UK qualifications, giving you the same opportunities for success when applying to university.
What is the international curriculum?
The syllabuses are adapted to ensure content is relevant and engaging for students around the world, allowing for learning in a local context to a global standard.
The International GCSE curriculum supports students to develop a range of transferable skills (such as problem solving, critical thinking, leadership and collaboration) to prepare them for higher levels of education and employment.
Pearson Edexcel International A levels (IALs) offer a flexible modular approach to exams. You can take exams at the end of each unit, throughout your studies when you’re ready, or all at once at the end of the course. This flexibility gives you more chances to get feedback, improve your performance, and achieve the grade you need to move forward.
International A levels
Want to study more than one subject? We offer a 10% multi-buy offer when you enrol on two or more courses together.
International A level Physics
Discover how the universe works with our flexible International A level Physics course—designed for global learners with aspirations in science, technology, or engineering.
International A level Maths
Unlock your analytical potential with our flexible online International A level Mathematics course—perfect for international students aiming for university or STEM careers.
International A level Chemistry
Gain a deeper understanding of the reactions and elements that shape our world with our online International A level Chemistry course—designed for students around the globe.
International A level Biology
Understand the systems of life from cells to ecosystems with our flexible online International A level Biology course—designed for students worldwide.
Multibuy A levels
Purchasing more than one A level? Use voucher code ALMB10 to receive 10% off at checkout.
IGCSE Courses
Want to study more than one subject? We offer a 10% multi-buy offer when you enrol on two or more courses together.
Spanish IGCSE
Do you picture yourself strolling through Spanish plazas, enjoying tapas and conversing with the locals? This course is your chance to unlock the magic of the Spanish language and culture.
Chemistry IGCSE
Ignite your passion for this complex and interesting subject as you dive into the fascinating world of chemistry through engaging online content and practical experiments you can do at home.
Physics IGCSE
How is energy transferred and conserved? How does sound and light travel? What is radioactivity? If you are keen to understand how things work or want to explore ‘big ideas’ that explain our world and universe, physics is the ideal course for you.
History IGCSE
Do historical facts spark your curiosity to find out more about the world we live in today? Studying history allows you to explore and understand significant events and their impacts on the present and future.
French IGCSE
Unlock the magic of the French language and culture as you picture yourself navigating Parisian streets, savouring French cuisine and conversing effortlessly with locals.
Double Science IGCSE
Discover the fascinating worlds of biology, chemistry, and physics with this comprehensive course offering in-depth study and providing a robust foundation for further education and careers in scientific and technical fields. Double Science IGCSE is the equivalent of two (I)GCSEs.
Computer Science IGCSE
Dive beyond the realm of basic computer users to understand the complexities of computer processes and the impact they create. From programming basics to complex algorithms, studying computer science allows you to explore and understand the digital world.
Geography IGCSE
If you have an interest in our natural world and the impact of humans upon it, this is your opportunity to explore some of the most challenging issues facing the world today.
Combined Science IGCSE
Open up a fascinating world of discovery and gain a broad introduction to the scientific thinking, key ideas and applications of biology, chemistry and physics.
Business IGCSE
Ever dreamt of running your own company or leading a team to success? Unleash your business potential and build a solid foundation for a successful career in business.
Biology IGCSE
If you appreciate nature and want to learn more about life on planet Earth this fascinating subject will teach you how to make predictions, test your theories and evaluate and communicate your scientific findings.
Enrolling on more than one GCSE or IGCSE? Use voucher code GCSEMB10 to receive 10% off at checkout.
Talk to one of our course advisors
Still unsure whether an IGCSE or International A level is right for you or your child?
Our friendly Course Advice Team are here to help answer your questions and take you through your options.
- Book a call and someone will get back to you at a convenient time.
- Or contact us today by phone or email.
We’re waiting to help you get ahead and achieve your goals, your way.
Experience you can trust
With a legacy spanning more than half a century, NEC has honed its craft in delivering exceptional online and distance learning experiences. Our extensive experience has equipped us with insights into the diverse needs of learners of all ages, allowing us to refine our approach to provide top-notch education that adapts to your individual pace and preferences.
How it works
Discover more about studying with NEC.
Support for Students
Helping students of all ages and backgrounds to achieve their goals, their way.
At NEC, we believe that everybody deserves a chance to achieve their learning goals, no matter their circumstances.
There are many forms of support we can offer our students.
Exams & Assessment
Many of our online distance learning courses require exams to achieve your qualification.
Whilst our courses are flexible in terms of your study schedule, exam dates are set by the awarding organisation.
As an approved centre, we facilitate both exams and non-exam assessments.
Fee Information
As an education charity dedicated to helping independent learners achieve life-changing qualifications we want to keep fees affordable. All of our course fees are clear and transparent to help you play for any additional costs.
Depending on your own circumstances, there are a number of possibilities for getting help with paying for your course.
WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY
Frequently asked questions
Your International Curriculum questions and concerns answered. Read more FAQs.
NEC offers flexible, online GCSEs, A levels, and vocational courses that you can study anytime, anywhere. When you enrol, you’ll receive a welcome email with login details for learn@nec, our virtual learning platform.
You’ll be supported by a qualified subject tutor who provides feedback on your assignments and helps guide your progress. Our expertly designed courses include engaging materials, interactive learning activities, and selected online resources — all created by experienced teachers, examiners, and learning designers.
Our courses are designed to let you study at your own pace — all within a clearly defined enrolment period to help keep you on track. Many courses let you study your way, with flexible assignment deadlines to suit your schedule. Others may include set dates — especially for things like exams or NEAs (Non-Exam Assessment) — to help you stay on track.
Yes! You can connect with other learners in your course’s online forum. Many students find discussing topics with peers helps reinforce their learning — and helps them feel part of a wider learning community.
Yes. Most NEC courses, including all GCSEs and A levels, lead to qualifications awarded by major UK exam boards such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR and Cambridge International. You’ll earn exactly the same qualification as students in school or college.
We’re also approved to offer CMI qualifications for management, as well as TQUK-accredited courses and Functional Skills qualifications in English and Maths. These nationally recognised qualifications are designed to help learners build practical skills and are ideal for both personal development and career progression.
Some short courses, like those in the arts, are for personal development and enjoyment but don’t lead to formal accreditation.
We teach you the core practicals that you need to be familiar with for your exam. This varies by course, but each core practical typically includes a method, list of equipment and some sample results. You can have a go at some of these practicals safely at home – we will let you know when this is the case. If the experiment is not safe to complete at home, or if you don’t want to complete the experiment yourself, our detailed description of the investigation will give you the information you need. Where appropriate, we also link videos demonstrating the experiment.
Yes. You can enrol any time and begin studying when it suits you. However, if your course involves an exam, you’ll need to complete all assignments and assessments (also known as coursework or NEA — Non-Exam Assessment) in time for set exam dates — so don’t leave it too late!
If you’re planning to apply to university, please also be aware of UCAS deadlines. For example, to receive predicted grades through our UCAS Application Service, you’ll need to have completed a certain number of assignments by specific dates.
Check the individual course pages for guidance, or book a call with an advisor to discuss your timeline and study plans.
Yes — NEC is ideal for international students. Many of our courses are available worldwide, but there are a few things to check before enrolling:
Exams: You’ll need to arrange a local exam centre. AQA does not offer international exams, so you’ll need to travel to the UK for those.
Qualification recognition: Ensure your chosen qualification is recognised in your country.
Our team is happy to help you explore your options.
