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

Phnom Penh 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 Phnom Penh

American universities:

• Pannasastra University of Cambodia – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, IT, Sciences, Liberal Arts

Other international programmes:

• Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes (various departments), Cambodia’s top public university, strong in Sciences, Engineering, Business, Arts
• Institute of Technology of Cambodia – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Engineering, Technology

Size and establishment of international branch campuses

Well-established campuses:

• Royal University of Phnom Penh – established 1960 (over 65 years); 20,000+ students; Cambodia’s top public university, English-medium programmes available
• Pannasastra University of Cambodia – established 2000 (over 25 years); 15,000+ students; well-established private university
• Institute of Technology of Cambodia – established 1964 (over 61 years); 5,000+ students; well-established technical university

Note: Phnom Penh’s international programmes and English-medium offerings are well-established with proven track records. Most have been operating for 25–65+ years and have 5,000–20,000+ students, providing a stable, international learning environment in Cambodia’s capital.

Local universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Top-tier universities:

• Royal University of Phnom Penh – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Cambodia’s top public university, strong in Sciences, Engineering, Business, Arts
• Pannasastra University of Cambodia – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established private university, strong in Business, IT, Sciences, Liberal Arts
• Institute of Technology of Cambodia – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established technical university, strong in Engineering, Technology

Other universities:

• American University of Phnom Penh – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, IT, Sciences
• Build Bright University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, IT, Engineering
• Cambodia University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, wide range of subjects

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 Khmer language proficiency for programmes taught in Khmer.

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

Tuition fees for expat/international students

Local universities:

• Royal University of Phnom Penh: USD 500–2,000 per year. Public university, significantly lower fees.
• Pannasastra University of Cambodia: USD 2,000–4,000 per year. Private university, higher fees.
• Institute of Technology of Cambodia: USD 800–2,500 per year. Public university.
• Private universities: USD 1,500–3,500 per year.

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. Cambodian citizens may receive government support. Always check current fees directly with universities as they change annually.

Why choose Phnom Penh?

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

Tips for expat families

• Language considerations – many programmes are English-medium, but learning Khmer enhances opportunities
• Entrance exams – prepare for university-specific entrance exams
• Scholarships – explore university-specific scholarships and government support (for Cambodian citizens)
• Accreditation – ensure the university is recognised by Cambodia Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport
• Cost of living – Phnom Penh 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.