In recent years, the surge in popularity of international schools in Southeast Asia has caught the attention of many parents. Particularly during the pandemic, Thailand's relatively lower school admission barriers attracted numerous students transferring from domestic public schools.

However, as time goes by, many parents have found themselves facing a predicament when their children reach grades 11 and 12. Specifically, in the IGCSE program, which consists of six core subjects, failing just one subject can prevent a student from progressing to A-levels and participating in the UK's General Certificate of Education Advanced Level (A-level) exams. In some cases, it can even lead to not being able to graduate from high school. By this point, returning to their home country to take the college entrance examination (Gaokao) is no longer a viable option, resulting in what is commonly referred to as "international school dropouts."

Faced with this reality, what are our options? Should we let our substantial investment in international education go to waste?

Should we consider repeating a grade? Or is there another way?

If the child still has the motivation to learn, repeating grade 11 to make up for the failed subjects is a viable option. Although this means an additional year of time and tuition fees, it is a more secure choice.

Alternatively, if the child is unwilling to repeat a grade, they could consider withdrawing from the international school and enrolling in an external international high school, similar to a full-time A-level cram school. While this option is not cheap, it may be more suitable for some students.

However, what if learning has become a burden for the child?

GED Diploma Exam

For children who have lost interest in learning, perhaps it's time to think differently. Forcing them to stay on a path they are not interested in will only consume more time and money.

Sometimes, it's better to cut your losses and find a quicker and more cost-effective way for the child to obtain a high school diploma and subsequently apply to universities worldwide.

The GED (General Educational Development) diploma exam is simple, cost-effective, and efficient. With just a few months of preparation, a child can obtain a diploma equivalent to a US high school graduation certificate. Imagine using less investment and time to open the doors to global universities – isn't that a wise choice?

If you are currently anxious about your child's high school grades and future university prospects, or if you are looking for an alternative path to university applications, the GED exam might just be the turning point you are hoping for.

In this era of increasing transparency and diversity of choices, the path to education is no longer limited to traditional routes. Believe that there is always a way that can lead you and your child to your own version of success.

Are you also worried about your child's future? Feel free to reach out to us!