'Our mission is to create an inclusive, global and wholly accessible education built on the bedrock of democratising education,' says Professor Saigal.
Collaborating with Cambridge
We strive to offer a high-quality education to both traditional and non-traditional learners,’ says Professor Saigal. 'Many of our students are working professionals who have some form of high school diploma but do not meet'traditional' university entry requirements – Cambridge International A Levels offer these students an internationally recognised entry certificate.'
In the University’s first year of providing Cambridge International A Levels online, over 900 students from 145 countries enrolled in the programmes.
'We currently offer two pathways: a business track and a technology track,’ says Professor Saigal. ‘Our business track consists of Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics, English and Economics. The tech track consists of Cambridge International AS & A Level Mathematics, English and Computer Science.’
Students who pass their Cambridge International A Levels automatically gain a place on their chosen degree programme.
'The Cambridge International A Level programmes have been very successful,’ says Professor Saigal. ‘They are rigorous in scope and depth of knowledge, so they are more than adequate to prepare our students for the educational journey ahead. We believe they provide a solid foundation for our Bachelor programmes, especially as we have tailored the Cambridge International A Level pathways for those degree programmes.’
Supporting staff and students
Description automatically generated‘Cambridge has provided numerous channels of support in the establishment of Cambridge International A Levels at our institution – from onboarding and key account support to access to teaching resources and exchange of best practices,’ says Professor Saigal.
IU students are provided with a range of support services by the University to ensure their success in the programmes, he continues: ‘Our digital learning platform offers interactive resources and materials tailored to Cambridge curriculum requirements, providing students with flexibility and accessibility to study at their own pace.
Student feedback
The University offers the Cambridge International A Level programmes at no additional tuition cost to students, and feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive.
Student Vincenzo Pignetti Cimmino enrolled at IU through the Cambridge A Level pathway and says: ‘The flexibility of programmes caters perfectly to the dynamic nature of the business world and I am grateful for the chance to pursue Cambridge International A Levels without worrying about finances.
'The option to continue my academic studies without having to go back to school has been a major plus. From engaging courses to a seamless examination process, every aspect is making my IU journey not only educational but also enriching.'
Advice for other universities
Professor Saigal has advice for other universities that are considering offering Cambridge International A Levels as an access course:
'Carefully assess the curriculum alignment of Cambridge International A Levels alongside the academic requirements of your degree programmes; ensure sufficient support structures for students transitioning from Cambridge International A Levels to higher education; and continuously evaluate the effectiveness and relevance of the programme in facilitating student success and access to diverse learners.
'Also, do not underestimate the vital role tutors play in ensuring classroom success and study progression prospects.
If you are a digital school, be aware that exams take place in on-site examination centres so exam accessibility may be a challenge for students located in remote and rural geographies.'
Boosting recruitment
IU has found that the Cambridge International A Level programmes have had a significant positive impact on the institution’s reputation and student recruitment efforts.
'By offering Cambridge International A Levels online, we’ve demonstrated our commitment to providing diverse pathways to higher education, attracting a broader range of students interested in pursuing their academic goals with us,' says Professor Saigal. 'This expanded offering has enhanced our reputation as a forward-thinking institution focused on student success and accessibility.
As the world and the education space become more digitised, we look forward to crafting further digital elements and solutions for the programmes, collaborating with Cambridge to augment learner accessibility and flexibility.'
Cambridge International A Levels are rigorous in scope and depth of knowledge so they are more than adequate to prepare our students for the educational journey ahead. We believe they provide a solid foundation for our Bachelor programmes
Find out more about becoming a Cambridge online school.
Visit the IU International University of Applied Science website.