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Two routes, side by side
A Levels and the LRN Foundation Year both lead to universities in Pakistan and abroad. Here is how they differ, so you can decide with the full picture.
How the two routes compare
No route is better in general. Each one fits a different starting point, timeline and way of learning.
Aiming for guaranteed* entry to a university abroad? See the NCUK programmes
| Topic | A Levels | LRN Foundation Year |
|---|---|---|
| In short | The maximum-choice route | The coursework and flexibility route |
| Length | 2 years (AS, then A2) | 16–18 months |
| Where | Islamabad campus, or online | Islamabad or Karachi campus, or online |
| Start dates | Ask an advisor | September, January and May |
| Qualification | A Levels from Cambridge International, Pearson Edexcel or LRN | LRN Level 3 Diploma in Pre-U Foundation Studies, 180 credits |
| What you study | 3–4 subjects you choose | 4 core modules plus one of 5 degree pathways |
| Assessment | Exams, with coursework or practicals in some subjects | Coursework, plus one final written Maths exam |
| Entry | O Levels or Matric, or equivalent | Matric, O Levels or equivalent; English at CEFR B1 |
| Fees | From PKR 30,000 per month, with scholarships available | Ask an advisor for the current fee schedule and scholarships |
| University applications | UCAS or direct, worldwide | UCAS (tariff points) or direct |
| Universities in Pakistan | Yes, with IBCC equivalence | Yes, with IBCC equivalence |
| Universities abroad | Worldwide, through UCAS or direct | UK and abroad, including Royal Holloway, SOAS, Sussex and Essex |
| Best suited to | Widest choice, competitive degrees such as medicine | Steady coursework, close support, on campus or online |
Choose by your starting point
Where you start changes which route fits best. Entry requirements apply to both.
After Matric
A Levels or the LRN Foundation Year. Both are open, subject to entry requirements.
After O Levels
Both are open. Think about the degree you want and how soon you want to start.
After FSc / HSSC
The LRN Foundation Year builds on your Intermediate studies and takes you to university in Pakistan or abroad.
After A Levels
You may be ready to apply directly. An advisor can check your grades against the courses you want.
Choose by the degree you want
Every university sets its own requirements. Use this as a starting point for a counselling conversation.
| Degree area | A Levels | LRN Foundation Year |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine and dentistry | The usual starting point: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths | Not the standard path |
| Engineering | Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science | Engineering and physical sciences pathway |
| Computing | Computer Science, Maths, Physics | Computing and technology pathway |
| Business and finance | Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Maths | Business and finance pathway |
| Law and social sciences | Psychology, Sociology, History, Law, Economics | Humanities and social sciences pathway |
| Art and design | Art, with a portfolio | Speak to an advisor |
Exams or coursework?
This is often the deciding question. Neither style is easier; they reward different ways of working.
A Levels
Mainly externally assessed written exams, in May/June and October/November, with coursework in some subjects.
LRN Foundation Year
Essays, reports, presentations and projects throughout, and one written Maths exam at the end.
Still deciding? Answer eight questions
The route finder asks about your results, the degree you want, your timeline and your campus, then shows how well each route fits.
Not sure which route is right for you?
Talk it through with an advisor. Bring your latest results and your questions; parents are welcome. Counselling is free and there is no obligation to enrol.