Demand for Cambridge International Education soars in Southeast Asia and Pacific
- Cambridge releases June 2025 exam results to over 680,000 students globally – up 9%
- Over 40,000 Cambridge International AS & A Level results issued to nearly 16,000 students Southeast Asia Pacific today
CAMBRIDGE, England, Aug. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As the world navigates rapid advancements in technology, manages the growing impact of climate change, and faces geopolitical shifts, more students and families in Southeast Asia and Pacific (SEAP) are turning to an international education as a way of preparing for the complexities of tomorrow. Cambridge International Education (Cambridge), has today begun releasing the results of its June 2025 exam series to over 680,000 students worldwide, a 9% increase over last year, reflecting this accelerating education trend toward global readiness.
In the SEAP region, more than 165,000 entries were made for Cambridge qualifications this June, a nearly 4% increase compared to June 2024. This growth reflects rising demand in key markets:
- Malaysia: over 70,500 entries (+2% increase)
- Indonesia: over 33,000 entries (+6% increase)
- Vietnam: over 15,500 entries (+4% increase)
- Thailand: over 18,500 entries (+7% increase)
Linked to the increased number of students, the number of exam entries has risen again this June to nearly 1.7 million – a 7% increase on last year. The growth is not only a testament to the academic quality of Cambridge programmes but also to a broader shift in what families and educators value: education that builds skills to work and study globally, fosters adaptability, and encourages critical engagement with real-world issues.
Across SEAP, Cambridge International AS & A Level results have been released today, opening doors to top universities and future-focused careers. Results from a 2024 Cambridge Student Destinations survey showed that globally, 89% of the 2024 Cambridge International AS & A Level student cohort progressed directly to university after graduating from school, 47% in their own country and 42% overseas.
Cambridge is the largest provider of international education for 14- to 16-year-olds and will issue Cambridge IGCSE and O Level results to over 30,000 students in the SEAP region on 19 August.
"In a time of uncertainty and transformation, the outlook that an international education provides is not just an advantage, it's a necessity," said Rod Smith, Group Managing Director for International Education at Cambridge. "Congratulations to all those receiving Cambridge results this August. We are proud to support a global community of learners who are preparing not only for university and careers, but for life in a rapidly changing world."
Future-ready skills in high demand
While English, mathematics and science remain the most popular subjects at both Cambridge International AS & A Level and Cambridge IGCSE, one of the clearest indicators of changing educational priorities is the surge in entries for Cambridge International AS & A Level Global Perspectives — up 17% this year. The subject, which encourages students to think critically about global challenges, conduct independent research, and articulate evidence-based arguments, has seen growing uptake across all stages of the Cambridge Pathway. "As AI transforms the job market, and as climate and global issues demand collaborative solutions, it's no surprise that more schools are seeking subjects that equip their students to think beyond borders," said Kanjna Paranthaman, Regional Director for SEAP. "Cambridge Global Perspectives exemplifies the skills students need today, curiosity, rigour, and the ability to understand issues from others' perspectives."
Demand for international education rising globally
The number of schools worldwide making entries in the June series has grown by 38% over the past five years, with an associated 74% growth in entries. In total, 5507 Cambridge International Schools in 149 countries made exam entries for the June 2025 series.
Cambridge, with more than 160 years of experience in international assessment, now serves nearly two million students annually. Its assessments, including Cambridge Checkpoint for younger learners as well as Cambridge IGCSE, O Level, International AS & A Level and the International Project Qualification are valued by schools and universities worldwide.
About Cambridge
Cambridge International Education is the awarding body of the International Education group at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, part of the University of Cambridge. Our International Education group works with schools worldwide to build an education that shapes knowledge, understanding and skills. Together, we give learners the confidence they need to thrive and make a positive impact in a changing world.
We offer a globally trusted and flexible framework for education from age 3 to 19 (the Cambridge Pathway), informed by research, experience, and listening to educators.
With recognised qualifications (such as Cambridge IGCSE and International AS & A Level), high-quality resources, comprehensive support and valuable insights, we help schools prepare every student for the opportunities and challenges ahead. Together, we help Cambridge learners be ready for the world.
Learn more! Visit www.cambridgeinternational.org
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