Choosing a Curriculum for Secondary Years in Dubai. British, American and IB Compared

Choosing a secondary curriculum is one of the most important decisions families make after moving to Dubai. These are the years when learning styles shift, exams become more significant, and future pathways start to open. This guide explains how the British, American, and IB systems work in the secondary years, what exams students take, and what options they have after age 16.

British Curriculum (GCSEs and A-levels)

How the British system works

The British curriculum becomes more structured and academic in the secondary years:

• Years 10–11: Students prepare for GCSEs in 8–10 subjects.

• Years 12–13: Students specialise through A-levels, usually choosing 3–4 subjects.

What exams students take

• GCSEs: End-of-course exams after two years.

• A-levels: Final high-stakes exams taken at the end of Year 13.

.

The system moves from broad foundational study to deep subject focus.

What happens after GCSEs?

After completing GCSEs, students can move into different post-16 pathways:

Post-GCSE options

• Continue to A-levels (the standard route).

• Switch to the IB Diploma Programme.

• Transition to the American High School Diploma + AP courses in schools that allow movement between systems.

• Enter vocational programmes such as BTEC Level 3.

Can a student enter university after GCSEs?

No.
GCSEs alone are not sufficient for university entry anywhere. Students need a recognised post-16 qualification such as A-levels, IB Diploma, APs or BTEC Level 3.

Who thrives in the British curriculum?

• Students who like clear structure
• Strong exam performers
• Teens comfortable specialising early
• Academically focused learners

American Curriculum (High School Diploma + AP)

How the American system works

Students earn credits across a wide range of subjects. Rigor increases through:

• Honors classes

• AP courses

• Optional SAT/ACT for university applications

The system emphasises continuous assessment and classroom performance.

What exams students take

• School-based assessments for the diploma

• AP exams for advanced subjects

• Optional SAT/ACT

Note:  SAT/ACT are not universally required by all UAE universities, but can be needed for Ministry equivalency or specific programs and also

if they plan to apply abroad.

What happens after high school?

Students may pursue:

• University (in the US and globally)

• Community college

• Technical or creative programmes

• Professional or work-based routes

Who thrives in the American curriculum?

• Students who prefer variety
• Teens who do well with ongoing assessment
• Learners who want flexibility
• Students exploring different interests

IB Curriculum (MYP and IB Diploma Programme)

How the IB system works

• MYP (Grades 6–10): inquiry-based, skills-oriented learning

• IB DP (Grades 11–12): rigorous academic programme combining six subjects with core components:

  • Extended Essay (EE)

  • Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

  • CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service)

What exams students take

• MYP: internal assessments + optional eAssessments

• DP: final exams + EE + TOK + CAS requirements

What happens after IB DP?

Graduates gain:

• Direct access to universities worldwide

• Often advanced standing or university credit

• Strong preparation for competitive programs

Who thrives in the IB curriculum?

• Organised, motivated students

• Strong writers and critical thinkers

• Teens who see connections across subjects

• Global learners

Side-by-Side Comparison of Exams and Pathways

Conclusion

Each curriculum opens strong future opportunities but creates a different learning experience.

• British offers structure and depth.

• American offers breadth and flexibility.

• IB offers global balance and broad academic skills.

The right choice depends on the student’s personality, strengths, and long-term goals.