Hi, I am from Malaysia and there is some difference in the school system here. Our school system offers education until Form 5 (equivalent to O-levels). Given this scenario, is it possible for me to apply directly to universities in the US? Or do I have to take A-levels before going into an undergraduate degree?
I think you would need A Levels or IB to be up to speed learning wise, but contact the colleges you’re interested in and ask to be sure.
Some universities will accept students from British-patterned schools with O-levels. However, the more selective universities require A-levels. You can do a bit of research and see what your options are. If a university does not list its admission requirements by country on its international admissions website, you can email the admissions office to inquire.
There may be a few more advantages to doing your A-levels first.
One advantage is age. Many universities seem to shy away from accepting international students under the age of majority due to legal complications. (In most US states you need to be 18 to sign legal contracts, e.g. to open a bank account or join a sports team or consent to medical treatment.)
Another advantage is advanced standing: many American universities will award you one year’s worth of college credit for a set of A-levels, allowing you to complete your undergraduate degree in 3 years instead of 4. If money is a concern, that could make a real difference.
Finally, you would be more competitive for academic scholarships with A-levels instead of O-levels.