Subject Choices and Guidelines
Site: | VIHS Dhasvehi |
Course: | Admission and Subjects offered |
Book: | Subject Choices and Guidelines |
Printed by: | Guest user |
Date: | Saturday, 30 August 2025, 2:41 AM |
1. Introduction
At Villa International High School (VIHS), we believe that choosing the right stream and subjects is a vital step in shaping a student’s academic path and future career. Our Stream and Subject Selection Policy is designed to guide students in making informed, purposeful choices that reflect their academic strengths, personal interests, and professional aspirations.
Through a wide range of nationally and internationally recognized qualifications including the Maldivian HSC, Cambridge and Edexcel International A Levels, Edexcel BTEC Diplomas, HSK, and Villa College programmes VIHS offers students access to diverse and flexible pathways. This policy ensures that students can personalize their learning experience while meeting eligibility requirements for top local and international universities, professional programs, and career opportunities.
The selection process is supported by clear academic criteria, structured guidance, and career counseling to help students choose combinations that provide both depth and balance. Whether students pursue Science, Business, Technical Diplomas, or Language and Humanities subjects, this policy is designed to maximize their potential and readiness for higher education and beyond.
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)
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
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.
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.
3. Admission Criteria
Admission to Villa International High School (VIHS) is based on results from O Level, IGCSE, and SSC examinations (or their equivalent). Only examinations taken within the past two years will be considered. Grades A*, A, B, and C are regarded as pass grades.
- Criteria A: Minimum of 8 subjects passed with grade C or higher
- Criteria B: Minimum of 5 subjects passed with grade C or higher
- Criteria C: Minimum of 3 subjects passed with grade C or higher
- Criteria D: Applicants may be considered under special circumstances following an interview. An academic assessment may be conducted to determine eligibility.
4. English Language & Mathematics
- English as a Second Language (Cambridge IGCSE) is compulsory for students who obtained below a grade C in O Level/IGCSE English.
- Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) is offered to:
- Students with B or C in IGCSE English as a Second Language (Extended)
- Students with a C in O Level First Language English
- Students with a C grade in IGCSE English as a Second Language (Core) are not eligible for CAE.
- Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) is available to:
- Students who achieved A* or A in IGCSE English (First or Second Language)
- Students with A*, A, or B in O Level English Language
- Students eligible for CPE may choose to take CAE instead if preferred.
Subject |
Code |
Examination Board |
0510 |
Cambridge IGCSE |
|
Certificate in Advanced English |
C1 Advanced |
Cambridge ESOL |
Certificate of Proficiency in English |
C2 Proficiency |
Cambridge ESOL |
Mathematics (YMA 01)
Mathematics is available across all streams (Science, Business, and Pearson Dip L3). To study A-Level Mathematics, students must have a pass in IGCSE Mathematics.
5. HSC
HSC Subjects (Maldivian Curriculum)
Dhivehi Language and Islamic Studies (for all Maldivian students). These subjects have no prerequisites.
Subject |
Code |
Examination Board |
Dhivehi Language |
8200 |
HSC (National) |
Islamic Studies |
8100 |
HSC (National) |
6. Streams Subjects and optional subjects
Students may choose a total of five to six subjects. Those who have obtained grade A or higher in five subjects in IGCSE and HSC combined may take up to seven subjects.
- Students can choose two or three subjects from either the Science Stream or the Business Stream, or one subject from the Pearson Diploma Level 3.
- One Pearson Diploma L3 subject is equivalent to two A-Level subjects.
- Students may select one or two optional subjects.
- Students from the O Level/IGCSE Science Stream may choose Business Stream subjects.
6.1- Science Stream
Core Subjects |
Code |
Exam Board |
Biology |
YBI11 |
Edexcel |
Chemistry |
YCH11 |
Edexcel |
Physics |
YPH11 |
Edexcel |
6.2- Business Stream
Core Subjects |
Code |
Exam Board |
Accounting |
YAC11 |
Edexcel |
Business |
YBS11 |
Edexcel |
Economics |
YEC11 |
Edexcel |
6.3- Pearson Diploma Level 3 Subjects
Subject |
Stream |
Exam Board |
Hospitality |
Pearson Dip L3 |
Edexcel |
Business |
Pearson Dip L3 |
Edexcel |
Applied Science |
Pearson Dip L3 |
Edexcel |
Engineering |
Pearson Dip L3 |
Edexcel |
6.4- Optional Subjects
(Available across all streams)
Subject |
Code |
Exam Board |
Chinese Language Proficiency (HSK 1) |
Ch-HSK |
Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) |
9618 |
Cambridge |
|
Digital Media & Design |
9481 |
Cambridge |
Information Technology |
9626 |
Cambridge |
Law |
9084 |
Cambridge |
Psychology |
9990 |
Cambridge |
Business |
YBS11 |
Edexcel |
Economics |
YEC11 |
Edexcel |
Travel & Tourism |
9395 |
Cambridge |
7. Seats open for the year 2025
Subject Allocation Notice
As the number of seats available for each subject is limited, subject selection will be done on a first-come, first-served basis. Students can view their application number by logging into their profile on the admission portal.
Students may choose a total of five to six subjects. Those who have obtained grade A or higher in five subjects in IGCSE and HSC combined may take up to seven subjects.
English as a Second Language
- English as a Second Language (Cambridge IGCSE) is compulsory for students who obtained below a grade C in O Level/IGCSE English.
- Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) is offered to:
- Students with B or C in IGCSE English as a Second Language (Extended)
- Students with a C in O Level English Language
- Students with a C grade in IGCSE English as a Second Language (Core) are not eligible for CAE.
- Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) is available to:
- Students who achieved A* or A in IGCSE English (First or Second Language)
- Students with A*, A, or B in O Level English Language
- Students eligible for CPE may choose to take CAE instead if preferred.
Subject |
Code |
Examination Board |
No of seats for 2025 |
English as a Second Language |
0510 |
Cambridge IGCSE |
All below C in English as a second language |
Certificate in Advanced English |
C1 Advanced |
Cambridge ESOL |
All eligible |
Certificate of Proficiency in English |
C2 Proficiency |
Cambridge ESOL |
All eligible |
3.2 HSC Subjects (Maldivian Curriculum)
Dhivehi Language and Islamic Studies (all Maldivian students). These subjects have no prerequisites.
Subject |
Code |
Examination Board |
No of seats for 2025 |
Dhivehi Language |
8200 |
HSC (National) |
All eligible |
Islamic Studies |
8100 |
HSC (National) |
All eligible |
3.3 Mathematics (YMA 01)
Mathematics is available across all streams (Science, Business, and Pearson Dip L3). To study ALevel Mathematics, students must have a pass in IGCSE Mathematics.
Subject |
Code |
Examination Board |
No of seats |
Mathematics |
YMA 01 |
Edexcel |
All eligible |
Students may choose a total of five to six subjects. Those who have obtained grade A or higher in five subjects in IGCSE and HSC combined may take up to seven subjects.
- Students can choose two or three subjects from either the Science Stream or the Business Stream, or one subject from the Pearson Diploma Level 3.
- One Pearson Diploma L3 subject is equivalent to two A-Level subjects.
- Students may select one or two optional subjects.
- Students from the O Level/IGCSE Science Stream may choose Business Stream subjects.
Science Stream
Core Subjects |
Code |
Exam Board |
No of seats 2025 |
Biology |
YBI11 |
Edexcel |
270 |
Chemistry |
YCH11 |
Edexcel |
270 |
Physics |
YPH11 |
Edexcel |
270 |
Business Stream
Core Subjects |
Code |
Exam Board |
No of seats 2025 |
Accounting |
YAC11 |
Edexcel |
270 |
Business |
YBS11 |
Edexcel |
270 |
Economics |
YEC11 |
Edexcel |
270 |
Pearson Diploma Level 3 Subjects
Subject |
Stream |
Exam Board |
No of seats |
Hospitality |
Pearson Dip L3 |
Edexcel |
25 |
Business |
Pearson Dip L3 |
Edexcel |
25 |
Applied Science |
Pearson Dip L3 |
Edexcel |
50 |
Engineering |
Pearson Dip L3 |
Edexcel |
50 |
Optional Subjects
(Available across all streams)
Subject |
Code |
Exam Board |
No of seats for 2025 |
Chinese Language Proficiency (HSK 1) |
Ch-HSK |
Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) |
50 |
Computer Science |
9618 |
Cambridge |
50 |
Digital Media & Design |
9481 |
Cambridge |
50 |
Information Technology |
9626 |
Cambridge |
50 |
Law |
9084 |
Cambridge |
90 |
Psychology |
9990 |
Cambridge |
90 |
Business |
YBS11 |
Edexcel |
30 |
Economics |
YEC11 |
Edexcel |
30 |
Travel & Tourism |
9395 |
Cambridge |
90 |
Important Notes for Subject Selection
- Choose subjects aligned with your career goals. Selecting three stream subjects in Business or Science or one subject in Pearson Dip L3 offers better opportunities for university admission.
- Students aspiring for the A Level National Top 10, Presidential Scholarship, or High Achievers’ Scholarship must study:
o Dhivehi Language
o Islamic Studies
o Three IAL (Edexcel or Cambridge) subjects
8. VIHS Careers programme
The VIHS Careers Programme (VCP) is a structured, skills-oriented academic pathway designed to enable students to achieve the Maldives Qualifications Authority (MQA) Certificate Level 4 (C4). Villa courses are offered only for grade 12 students. Offered in collaboration with Villa College, with VIHS serving as an official outreach centre, this programme allows students to pursue a recognized professional qualification alongside their International A-Level (IAL) studies.
VCP provides access to Certificate Level 4 programmes that focus on practical, career-relevant skills aligned with industry needs. These qualifications not only fulfil entry criteria for undergraduate programmes at Villa College but are also recognized by a growing number of local and international institutions, offering students flexible progression routes into higher education both in the Maldives and abroad. 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.
9. VIHS Scholarship
VIHS SCHOLARSHIP AWARDING POLICY
Villa International High School (VIHS)
Scholarship Awarding Policy
Last Updated: 6th July 2025
Introduction
The VIHS Scholarship Program is established to recognize and reward exceptional academic performance in O Level/IGCSE/SSC or equivalent examinations, as well as outstanding achievements in sports and co-curricular activities recognized by the Ministry of Education’s Activity Calendar. This policy outlines the eligibility criteria, selection procedures, and terms and conditions for awarding scholarships.
Category 1: Brilliant Student Scholarships
This scholarship is merit-based and awarded to students with high academic achievement in their O Level/IGCSE/SSC or equivalent examinations. Evaluation will be based on the best eight subject grades, using the following point scale:
Letter Grade |
9–1 UK Grade Equivalent |
Points |
A* |
9 |
58 |
A |
7 or 8 |
52 |
B |
6 |
46 |
C |
4 or 5 |
40 |
To be eligible:
- Applicants must score a minimum of 410 points.
- Must enroll in Dhivehi, Islam, and at least three subjects (Edexcel/Cambridge IAL) at VIHS.
Scholarship Tiers:
Scholarship Band |
Monthly Fee Waiver (MVR) |
Minimum Points Required |
Brilliant Student Scholarship – Band 1 |
1,500 |
464 |
Brilliant Student Scholarship – Band 2 |
1,000 |
440 |
Brilliant Student Scholarship – Band 3 |
500 |
410 |
Note: If the number of eligible candidates exceeds the allocated budget, recipients will be selected through a lottery draw.
Category 2: Sports and Co-curricular Scholarships
This scholarship is awarded to students who achieved 1st or 2nd place in individual/team events in inter-school or national level competitions recognized in the Ministry of Education's Activity Calendar during Grade 9 or 10.
- Award amount: MVR 500 per month
- A student winning multiple competitions will still receive a maximum of MVR 500 per month.
- This category is limited to 10% of the total VIHS scholarship budget.
- If the number of eligible applicants exceeds the budget, selection will be made via a lottery draw.
Application Deadline
Scholarships are awarded only to those who submit their applications by the deadline stated on the application form. Please note that recheck results will not be considered in the selection process.
Commencement of Scholarship Benefits
Scholarship financial benefits will begin from the start of Semester 1.
Terms and Conditions
- Only officially registered students at VIHS are eligible to apply.
- Students eligible for multiple scholarships will receive only the higher-value award.
- Scholarship recipients must maintain a minimum attendance of 80% in 5 subjects every month. Failure to meet this requirement in any subject will result in the discontinuation of the scholarship.
- For Category 1 recipients, students must maintain a minimum average grade of B in 5 subjects each semester. Failure to do so will lead to termination of the scholarship.
- Category 1 recipients are required to continue studying Dhivehi, Islam, and at least three subjects, and must appear for A Level terminal examinations. Non-compliance will result in the revocation of the scholarship.
For further inquiries or support regarding the scholarship application process, students may contact the VIHS administration office.
10. Application Process
Application opens on 13th July 2025, 1000hrs
Tuition Fees
The monthly tuition fee is MVR 3,900, applicable from September 2025 until the student completes their A-Level terminal examinations, anticipated to be held in October 2027. According to the academic calendar issued by the Ministry of Education, the academic year commences in September. Therefore, the total duration for the two academic years is expected to span 26 months (September 2025 – October 2027).
Please note: In the event of any unforeseen circumstances that extend the academic period beyond 26 months, the tuition fee will continue to be charged until the actual date of graduation.

Application opens on 13th July 2025, 1000hrs