Subject Choices and Guidelines

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

1. English as a Second Language (0510, IGCSE)
2. Certificate in Advanced English (C1Advanced)
3. Certificate of Proficiency in English   (C2 Proficiency)
4. Computer Science  (9618)
5. Digital Media & Design   (9481)
6. Information Technology    (9626)
7. Law   (9084)
8. Psychology   (9990)
9. Travel & Tourism  (9395)

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. 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.

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

• 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.

5. HSE & Mathematics

HSE Subjects (Maldivian Curriculum)

All Maldivian students are encouraged to take Dhivehi Language and Islamic Studies. These subjects have no prerequisites.

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.

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

6.2- Business Stream

6.3- Pearson Diploma Level 3 Subjects

6.4- Optional Subjects

(Available across all streams)

7. Villa Careers programme

Note: These programmes are offered only if there are minimum 13 students in each programme based students career path.

8. VIHS Scholarship

VIHS SCHOLARSHIP AWARDING POLICY

Villa International High School (VIHS)
Scholarship Awarding Policy
Last Updated: 14 August 2023

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:

To be eligible:

• Applicants must score a minimum of 410 points.
• Must enroll in Dhivehi, Islam, and at least three stream subjects (Edexcel/Cambridge IAL) at VIHS.

Scholarship Tiers:

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 place in individual 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

1. Only officially registered students at VIHS are eligible to apply.
2. Students eligible for multiple scholarships will receive only the higher-value award.
3. Scholarship recipients must maintain a minimum attendance of 80% in each subject every month. Failure to meet this requirement in any subject will result in discontinuation of the scholarship.
4. For Category 1 recipients, students must maintain a minimum average grade of C in each semester. Failure to do so will lead to termination of the scholarship.
5. Category 1 recipients are required to continue studying Dhivehi, Islam, and at least three stream subjects, and must appear for A Level terminal examinations. Non-compliance will result in revocation of the scholarship.

For further inquiries or support regarding the scholarship application process, students may contact the VIHS administration office.

9. Application