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How is the American school curriculum different from the British?

student working on his computer in classroom

The American and British school curricula are the two best-known education systems that cater to English-speaking students from around the world. These are also extremely popular amongst students from non-English speaking communities, who receive their education in the English language. While the language of instruction is the same in the two curricula, there are quite a few fundamental differences between the two education systems. Let us have a look at those.

American vs British Curriculum

While there are quite a few American curriculum schools in the UAE, the same is also true of British curriculum schools. The American curriculum comprises several frameworks including the Advanced Placement (AP) or AP courses offered in high school that enable students to earn the credits necessary to receive advanced placement in colleges. Among the subjects covered by these courses are mathematics, special sciences, languages, science and arts. The AP program is conducted under the auspices of the College Board, the organization responsible for overseeing the Scholastic Admission Test or SAT.  The AP program is administered by the College Board, an organization that also oversees the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)., which is part of the college admission process in the United States.

The British curriculum on the other hand has vast global acceptance and is the education system of choice for a large number of schools worldwide. Its principal components are the IGCSE or International General Certificate of Secondary Education and A-level qualifications.

What is interesting about this system of education is that it takes a holistic approach towards empowering its students by laying stress on critical thinking as well as independent research and analysis. It allows students to customize their education path following their aptitude and interests. Students who study at British curriculum schools boast an excellent track record of admission to top colleges and universities around the world.

Conclusion

The difference between an American curriculum and a British curriculum lies in the structure of their courses, with the former being attuned to the needs of the American higher education system, and the latter to the British one. That being stated both the education systems are amongst the best in the world and for that reason very highly sought after around the world, including in the UAE.

Both these curricula match the International Baccalaureate education system when it comes to fulfilling the educational needs of expat students around the world. It is not surprising that in an American curriculum vs IB scenario, the former is just as popular across the world.  At the end of the day, the choice of curriculum for a school student depends on what works best for them and both the American and British curricula have the reputation of being amongst the finest international curricula in the world. As regards the difference between the American curriculum and the British curriculum, it is on account of their being attuned to the education systems of the US and UK respectively. Any choice between the two is based on what suits a student’s best interests.

Emirates American School is proud to be recognized as one of the best American schools in Sharjah, accredited by Cognia. Our commitment to academic excellence and holistic development ensures that students receive a world-class education. To learn more about our innovative learning programs and vibrant community, please contact our admission counselors and book a school tour today.

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