Subject Choices and Guidelines
2. Examination Bodies
Villa International High School offers courses from six examination bodies.
1.1- Higher Secondary Education Certificate (HSC) – Ministry of Education
Offered by the Department of Public Examinations (DPE), the HSC is nationally recognized qualification in Dhivehi and Islamic studies designed to equip students with the academic and practical competencies required for higher education and professional pursuits. Subjects offered under HSC are:
- Dhivehi Language (8200)
- Islamic Studies (8100)
1.2- Cambridge International AS & A Levels (IAL)
Globally respected for its academic excellence, the Cambridge IAL program
offers a wide range of subject choices with a flexible, modular structure.
Designed to develop in-depth knowledge, independent learning skills, and
intellectual curiosity, Cambridge IAL prepares students for entry into top
universities worldwide. Its emphasis on critical analysis and academic
integrity makes it one of the most prestigious pre-university qualifications
available.
- English as a Second Language (0510, IGCSE)
- Certificate in Advanced English (C1Advanced)
- Certificate of Proficiency in English (C2 Proficiency)
- Computer Science (9618)
- Digital Media & Design (9481)
- Information Technology (9626)
- Law (9084)
- Psychology (9990)
- Travel & Tourism (9395)
1.3- Edexcel International AS & A Levels (IAL)
Recognized by universities and employers around the world, Edexcel IALs provide
a balanced combination of academic rigor and skill-based learning. With an
emphasis on clarity, accessibility, and real-world relevance, Edexcel IALs are
ideal for students seeking a structured and supportive pathway to higher
education. The curriculum promotes both theoretical understanding and practical
application across a diverse range of disciplines. VIHS offers the following courses under Edexcel
International (IAL)
- Mathematics (YMA 01)
- Biology (YBI11)
- Chemistry (YCH11)
- Physics (YPH11)
- Accounting (YAC11)
- Business (YBS11)
- Economics (YEC11)
1.4- Edexcel BTEC (Business and Technology Education Council)
The
Edexcel BTEC program offers a dynamic, skills-focused alternative to
traditional academic routes. Combining theoretical study with hands-on
practical learning, BTECs are designed to meet the evolving demands of modern
industries. These internationally recognized qualifications prepare students
for both university progression and direct entry into the workforce. VIHS offers the following programs of BTEC
- Hospitality (Pearson Dip L3)
- Business (Pearson Dip L3)
- Applied Science (Pearson Dip L3)
- Engineering (Pearson Dip L3)
1.5- HSK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì
The HSK is China’s internationally standardized test for Mandarin Chinese proficiency, administered by Hanban/Confucius Institute Headquarters. Suitable for non-native speakers, the HSK assesses language ability across listening, reading, and writing skills. Completion of the HSK demonstrates a student’s ability to communicate effectively in Chinese and opens doors to higher education and professional opportunities in Chinese-speaking environments.
- Mandarin Chinese proficiency
1.6- Villa College Programmes at VIHS
VIHS is proud to partner with Villa College, a leading institution in higher education, to offer select post-secondary programmes on-site along with A-level studies, providing seamless academic progression to university education for our students. Villa college programmes are offered for students of VIHS starting from the second year.
- College Foundation Programme (CFP) and Certificate Level 4 Courses- The Villa College Foundation Programme is a one-year, pre-university qualification designed to prepare students for undergraduate study. It offers intensive academic preparation in key subject areas while developing essential study skills, English language proficiency, and independent learning strategies. CFP graduates gain direct entry into degree programmes of colleges and universities of Maldives and abroad. Currently school offers the following programmes for grade 12 students along with IAL programmes. The courses offered under this programme are:
- Business and Administration
- Information Technology
- Early Childhood Education
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Graphic Design and Digital Media
- Accounting and Office Management
Note: These programmes are offered only if there are minimum 13 students in each programme based students career path.