University Options in Cairo for IGCSE, A Levels & IBDP Students – Local & International Campuses

Cairo offers diverse university options for students with IGCSE, International A Levels, or IBDP. This guide covers local universities and international programmes that accept these qualifications, helping expat and local families navigate their options.

Top-tier universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Premier institutions:

• American University in Cairo (AUC) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style education, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Arts (highly regarded)
• Cairo University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Egypt’s largest and oldest university, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Sciences, Arts, Law, Business (some programmes in English)
• Ain Shams University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; comprehensive university, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Sciences, Arts (some programmes in English)

Private universities:

• German University in Cairo (GUC) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; German-style education, strong in Engineering, Business, Sciences, Pharmacy
• British University in Egypt (BUE) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; UK-style education, strong in Engineering, Business, Pharmacy, Arts
• Misr International University (MIU) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Business, Engineering, Mass Communication, Languages

International programmes and partnerships

• American University in Cairo (AUC) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; full US-style education, English-medium, strong international reputation
• German University in Cairo – accepts A Levels, IBDP; German-style education, partnerships with German universities

Admission requirements

IGCSE: Typically 5 subjects at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Competitive programmes may require A/A* grades.

A Levels: Usually 3 A Levels with grades CCC-AAA depending on the programme. AUC is highly selective and may require AAB-AAA.

IBDP: Typically 24-32 points minimum. Competitive programmes may require 28+ points with specific Higher Level requirements.

English language: IELTS 6.0-7.0 or equivalent (varies by university and programme). English-medium programmes require strong English proficiency.

Additional requirements: Some programmes may require Arabic language proficiency or entrance exams.

Tuition fees for expat/international students

Public universities:

• Cairo University, Ain Shams University: EGP 20,000–50,000 per year (approximately USD 650–1,600). International students pay 2–4x more than Egyptian citizens. English-medium programmes typically higher.

Private universities:

• AUC: USD 20,000–30,000 per year. Offers generous financial aid and scholarships.
• GUC: EGP 150,000–250,000 per year (approximately USD 4,800–8,000).
• BUE: EGP 120,000–200,000 per year (approximately USD 3,800–6,400).
• MIU: EGP 80,000–150,000 per year (approximately USD 2,600–4,800).

Note: Fees vary significantly by programme and language of instruction. AUC offers substantial financial aid (need-based and merit-based). Many universities offer merit-based scholarships. Always check current fees directly with universities as exchange rates fluctuate.

Why choose Cairo?

• Cultural capital – rich history, culture, arts, vibrant city life
• Affordable education – significantly lower tuition fees than Western countries
• International options – AUC offers full US-style education
• Strategic location – gateway to Africa and Middle East
• Career opportunities – growing economy in Technology, Business, Tourism, Media
• Quality institutions – AUC is highly regarded internationally

Tips for expat families

• Language considerations – many programmes are in Arabic; check for English-medium programmes
• International programmes – AUC and GUC offer full English-medium programmes
• Accreditation – ensure universities are accredited by Egypt’s Ministry of Higher Education
• Scholarships – many universities offer merit-based scholarships
• Career focus – Egypt’s economy favours Technology, Business, Tourism, Media, Healthcare
• Work opportunities – good post-graduation work opportunities, especially in tech and business
• Cost of living – Cairo is affordable; factor in accommodation and living costs

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How Tutopiya supports university preparation

Tutopiya helps students achieve the IGCSE, A Levels, or IBDP grades needed for Cairo universities. Explore our learning portal or book a free trial with a tutor.

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This guide is based on publicly available information. Always check the latest admission requirements directly with universities.