A-level results released in UAE today

DUBAI // A-level pupils at British curriculum schools have received the results that will determine if they get into the university of their choice.

Results for schools in the UAE showed an upward trend, with most pupils receiving the marks they expected.

British School Al Khubairah achieved a 100 per cent pass rate among 90 pupils who took their A levels.

This year, 75 per cent of grades where between A* and B – up from 73 per cent last year. Their 2009 results stood at 71 per cent.

"More than 95 per cent of pupils have gotten into their university of choice," said principal Paul Coackley.

Mr Coackley said most pupils had decided to take up university offers in the UK but that US was a popular study destination, too. "A good British education is clearly enabling students to access universities worldwide."

At the Dubai British School, 84 per cent of pupils achieved grades between A* and C this year – up from 76 per cent last year.

Schools operated by the Gems group also reported a 100 per cent pass rate with improved scores from last year, officials said.

In the UK, academics are predicting an increase in pass rates that will fuel the competition for university places. And this at a time when places are already scarce: several universities have decided against joining the clearing process, a system which matches applicants with open spots at universities.

aahmed@thenational.ae