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

Colombo offers diverse university options for students with IGCSE, International A Levels, or IBDP. This guide covers international branch campuses and local universities that accept these qualifications, helping expat and local families make informed choices.

International branch campuses in Colombo

British universities:

• University of Colombo – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes (various departments), Sri Lanka’s top public university, strong in Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, Business, Arts

Other international programmes:

• University of Moratuwa – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Engineering, Architecture, Technology
• Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in IT, Engineering, Business

Size and establishment of international branch campuses

Well-established campuses:

• University of Colombo – established 1921 (over 104 years); 25,000+ students; Sri Lanka’s top public university, English-medium programmes available
• University of Moratuwa – established 1972 (over 53 years); 12,000+ students; well-established technical university
• Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology – established 1999 (over 26 years); 15,000+ students; well-established private university

Note: Colombo’s international programmes and English-medium offerings are well-established with proven track records. Most have been operating for 26–104+ years and have 12,000–25,000+ students, providing a stable, international learning environment in Sri Lanka’s capital.

Local universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Top-tier universities:

• University of Colombo – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Sri Lanka’s top public university, strong in Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, Business, Arts
• University of Moratuwa – accepts A Levels, IBDP; top technical university, strong in Engineering, Architecture, Technology
• University of Peradeniya (near Colombo) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established public university, strong in Sciences, Medicine, Arts

Other universities:

• Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established private university, strong in IT, Engineering, Business
• Informatics Institute of Technology – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in IT, Business
• Colombo International Nautical and Engineering College – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Engineering, Maritime Studies

Admission requirements

IGCSE: Typically need 5 subjects at grade C or above, including English and Maths. For competitive programmes, A/A* grades may be required.

A Levels: Usually 3 A Levels with grades AAB-BBB depending on the programme. Competitive programmes may require AAB or higher.

IBDP: Typically 24-30 points minimum, with higher points (30+) for competitive programmes. Some programmes require specific Higher Level subjects.

English language: IELTS 6.0-7.0 or equivalent (varies by university and programme). Some universities require Sinhala or Tamil language proficiency for programmes taught in those languages.

Additional requirements: Many universities require entrance exams, interviews, or essays.

Tuition fees for expat/international students

Local universities:

• University of Colombo: LKR 100,000–300,000 per year (approximately USD 330–990). Public university, significantly lower fees.
• University of Moratuwa: LKR 150,000–400,000 per year (approximately USD 500–1,320). Public university.
• Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology: LKR 300,000–600,000 per year (approximately USD 990–1,980). Private university.
• Private universities: LKR 200,000–500,000 per year (approximately USD 660–1,650).

Note: Fees vary significantly by programme and university type (public vs private). Many universities offer merit-based scholarships (university-specific scholarships) that can cover 10–50% of tuition. Sri Lankan citizens may receive government support. Always check current fees directly with universities as they change annually.

Why choose Colombo?

• Quality education – home to Sri Lanka’s top universities
• International environment – diverse student body, many English-medium programmes
• Cultural experience – immerse in Sri Lankan culture while studying
• Career opportunities – strong job market in IT, Tourism, Finance, Engineering
• Affordable cost of living – more affordable than many other major cities
• Strategic location – gateway to South Asian markets

Tips for expat families

• Language considerations – many programmes are English-medium, but learning Sinhala/Tamil enhances opportunities
• Entrance exams – prepare for university-specific entrance exams
• Scholarships – explore university-specific scholarships and government support (for Sri Lankan citizens)
• Accreditation – ensure the university is recognised by Sri Lanka University Grants Commission (UGC)
• Cost of living – Colombo is moderately affordable; factor in accommodation and living costs
• Visa requirements – ensure proper student visa documentation

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