The O/L results are out. As responsible parents you must make a serious decision about your child's future in the next few weeks. In today's competitive employment market A/Level results don't guarantee success. An increasing number of international universities have options for direct admission O/Level qualified students. A university degree after O/Ls has become the most popular choice for smart students and parents who seek the best career opportunities. The following section explains the options available for an O/L student, and the career opportunities they bring.

Multiple options after O/Level
There are many options for students after their O/Ls. However many students don't make the maximum from the opportunities and lose the advantage over their peers. Since education and career choices are affected by this decision, parents and other stakeholders must help students to make the best choice. It's quite unfortunate to see that many don't realize the seriousness of this decision, or make hasty decisions.

Local A/Levels
Students after O/Ls have few options. The local A/L study stream is ideal for those who wish to enter the local university system in Sri Lanka. However limited opportunities and high competition has made local university admission difficult for many students. Students who wish to study in the latest areas such as Mechatronics, Aeronautical Engineering, and Molecular Biology must consider alternative options.

London A/Levels
Edexcel and Cambridge A/Level examinations are suited for students who prefer to seek admission into overseas universities. However the high cost of studying overseas and the enhanced admission criteria has made this option increasingly difficult. Furthermore the increasing school fees and tuition fees limits this option for only students who are focused on this track.

Other short term programmes
It's common practice to see students after O/Ls joining short term programmes (Diploma and Certificate Level) in English, Computing and other similar areas. This might fill the time gap between the O/Level examinations and the start of A/Level class but does not deliver any real academic value. Many institutes that deliver these courses do not provide a qualification acceptable for employers. In short, parents and students end up spending large amounts of money and time on these short term qualifications without much value.

University admission
An increasing number of forward thinking parents consider direct university admission for their children after O/Levels. This is not a phenomenon seen only in Sri Lanka. Many international universities today accept students with O/Level qualifications into their university programmes. This allows students to acquire the necessary skills and expertise demanded by the industry.

Achieve more with University Degree after O/Ls
Good university education leads to excellent career opportunities in leading local and international companies, top salaries, and many other advantages. To find out how to reach local and international top careers, and to explore the benefits of true international university education you can contact Gishan on 0777 662211. A free career counselling session will allow you to explore more about yourself, career opportunities and how to optimize your university education plans. You are also invited to visit us at ANC Education, 308 - 310, R.A.De Mel Mawatha Colombo 3.