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

Kuwait City 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 Kuwait City

American universities:

• American University of Kuwait (AUK) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style education, strong in Business, Engineering, Arts and Sciences
• Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style programmes, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences

British universities:

• Box Hill College Kuwait – accepts A Levels, IBDP; British-style programmes, strong in Business, IT, Design

Other international programmes:

• Kuwait University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes (various departments), strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Sciences

Size and establishment of international branch campuses

Well-established campuses:

• American University of Kuwait – established 2003 (over 22 years); 3,000+ students; well-established US-style university
• Gulf University for Science and Technology – established 2002 (over 23 years); 4,500+ students; well-established US-style university
• Kuwait University – established 1966 (over 59 years); 40,000+ students; Kuwait’s main public university, English-medium programmes available
• Box Hill College Kuwait – established 2008 (over 17 years); 1,500+ students; British-style programmes

Note: Kuwait City’s international branch campuses and English-medium programmes are well-established with proven track records. Most have been operating for 17–59+ years and have 1,500–40,000+ students, providing a stable, international learning environment in Kuwait’s capital.

Local universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Top-tier universities:

• Kuwait University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Kuwait’s main public university, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Sciences
• American University of Kuwait – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style private university, strong in Business, Engineering, Arts and Sciences
• Gulf University for Science and Technology – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style private university, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences

Other universities:

• Australian College of Kuwait – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Australian-style programmes, strong in Engineering, Business
• Arab Open University Kuwait – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Open university model, wide range of programmes

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 Arabic language proficiency for programmes taught in Arabic.

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

Tuition fees for expat/international students

International branch campuses:

• American University of Kuwait: KWD 3,000–5,000 per year (approximately USD 9,800–16,300). Significantly lower than US home campus fees.
• Gulf University for Science and Technology: KWD 2,500–4,500 per year (approximately USD 8,200–14,700).
• Box Hill College Kuwait: KWD 2,000–3,500 per year (approximately USD 6,500–11,400).

Local universities:

• Kuwait University: KWD 1,000–2,000 per year (approximately USD 3,300–6,500). Public university, lower fees for Kuwaiti citizens.
• Private universities (AUK, GUST): KWD 2,500–5,000 per year (approximately USD 8,200–16,300).

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

Why choose Kuwait City?

• International environment – diverse student body, many English-medium programmes
• Strategic location – gateway to Gulf region markets
• Career opportunities – strong job market in Oil & Gas, Finance, Engineering, Business
• Quality education – well-established universities with international recognition
• Cultural experience – immerse in Gulf culture while studying

Tips for expat families

• Language considerations – many programmes are English-medium, but learning Arabic enhances opportunities
• Scholarships – explore university-specific scholarships and government support (for Kuwaiti citizens)
• Accreditation – ensure the university is recognised by Kuwait Ministry of Higher Education
• Cost of living – Kuwait City is moderately expensive; 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.