What is a Cambridge (AICE) Schools?
Cambridge (AICE) schools offer the Cambridge International curriculum, an internationally recognized, rigorous pre-university program run by Cambridge University's international education arm. Students can earn the AICE Diploma (Advanced International Certificate of Education) through Cambridge courses and exams (IGCSE, AS, and A Levels). Cambridge is taught in thousands of schools worldwide and is a popular alternative to the IB and AP — widely offered in Florida and other states.
History & origins
The Cambridge International program grew into one of the world's most widely offered international curricula, taught in over a thousand schools across many countries. In the US it expanded significantly, especially in states like Florida, as a rigorous, flexible pathway.
Philosophy & approach
Cambridge emphasizes deep subject knowledge, independent thinking, research, and academic rigor — developing confident, reflective learners prepared for university and a globally connected world, with flexibility in course choice.
Curriculum & academics
Students take Cambridge courses and external exams — building from IGCSE/Pre-AICE to AS and A Levels — and can earn the AICE Diploma by combining subjects across curriculum groups plus a global perspectives/research element. The program is rigorous, flexible, and internationally recognized by universities.
The classroom & school day
The culture is academically serious and internationally minded, with subject depth, independent research, and exam-based assessment. Cambridge can be a whole-school program or offered within a larger school.
Grade levels & structure
Cambridge programs often span middle and high school (Pre-AICE in earlier grades, AICE in the upper grades), leading to the AICE Diploma.
Admissions & enrollment
Public Cambridge/AICE programs are free (sometimes with eligibility criteria or by application within a district); private ones charge tuition. Availability depends on the school.
Costs & financial aid
Public Cambridge programs are free; private ones charge tuition. In some states (e.g., Florida), the AICE Diploma can qualify students for state scholarships.
Accreditation & governance
Cambridge is administered by Cambridge Assessment International Education; schools are authorized to deliver it and credentials are internationally recognized by universities. Look at which Cambridge courses and exams a school offers.
Is a Cambridge (AICE) Schools right for your child?
A Cambridge (AICE) school suits motivated students who want a rigorous, internationally recognized, flexible pre-university program — and, in some states, a path to college credit and scholarships. It's a strong alternative to IB or AP.
How it compares to other schools
Cambridge (AICE) is an internationally recognized curriculum and diploma, parallel to the IB and comparable to AP as a rigorous pathway. It differs from IB in structure and flexibility, and is offered in both public and private schools.
Finding Cambridge (AICE) Schools
Ready to explore specific schools? K12 Academics lists Cambridge, IB, and other schools across the country.
Key facts
- ProgramCambridge International (IGCSE, AS & A Levels)
- CredentialAICE Diploma (Advanced International Certificate of Education)
- RecognizedInternationally by universities; a popular IB/AP alternative
- WhereThousands of schools worldwide; common in Florida and other states
- CostFree (public) or tuition (private)
Where to learn more
To learn more and find specific schools: