New collaboration strengthens York’s role in global higher education and student mobility

The Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) is a non‑profit organisation which works in collaboration with China’s Ministry of Education. This organisation's primary focus is on international education and student exchange; it helps learners to access study opportunities globally while supporting universities in building global partnerships. Over the years, CSCSE has played a significant role in strengthening academic exchange and providing new ways for Chinese students to earn their degrees abroad.

The University of York has recently announced a new partnership with CSCSE as part of its mission to provide international students with a new option for completing their undergraduate degree in the UK. The High Achiever Programme is the first Russell Group university to participate in such an initiative. York claims that the programme will give students new chances to combine their studies in China with progression to a degree at a prestigious UK university.

Subsequently, Business and Computer Science degrees will be opened up to the programme, which relies on the SQA Advanced Diploma, a qualification equivalent to the first two years of undergraduate study in the UK. This makes the International Pathway at the University of York a viable option for students seeking flexible UK university pathway programmes. Moreover, the SQA Advanced Diploma is to be taught and assessed in English under the jurisdiction of the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). More than 60,000 students in China have completed this diploma, many of whom later pursue their degrees at universities abroad. Such evidence paints a picture of how overseas student‑entry pathways for universities in the UK are diversifying and becoming more accessible.

International students will be catered for with two models of participation on the programme. They can study the SQA Advanced Diploma for three years in China and transfer to York for one year, or complete the second year directly at York through a partner institution of the CSCSE. In either case, the pathway also ensures that international student study options in the UK remain flexible and supportive.

Upon completing this academic programme will receive a University of York degree. The first cohort is expected to arrive in September 2026. This provides the University of York and its international students with an opportunity to open new avenues of access to global talent and recognised qualifications. Vice‑Chancellor Professor Charlie Jeffery explained that universities worldwide are broadening their approach to adapt to the new forms of undergraduate study in the UK today. He added that this partnership provides more than a qualification – it opens a pathway for students to experience life at a top‑ranking UK university. He noted that the SQA Advanced Diploma provides a strong foundation, while York offers a high‑quality destination to complete studies.

It is designed to prepare students for developing global networks and for careers in an international workplace. Further, it gives York a chance to welcome top talent across the globe, thereby reinforcing its role among the Russell Group universities for global students.

Editor’s Note

The High Achiever Programme opened its doors at the University of York, and with it comes an exciting new direction opening up for international students. It illustrates the movement by universities to do things differently, to move beyond three‑year campus‑based degree programmes, and to forge flexible routes for a global generation. It is advantageous for the students who are willing to join this new pathway as they will gain a recognised degree from a well‑regarded university, which is also part of the Russell Group of leading UK universities. In addition, they will get a chance to study in two countries, starting in China with the SQA Advanced Diploma and then completing their degree in York. This dual experience provides them with strong academic foundations and valuable international exposure. This experience matters as it provides global exposure and makes them ready for the challenging working environment ahead. Furthermore, they will learn to adjust to new culturally different environments, diverse backgrounds and learn how to build strong international networks. At the same time, deserving and talented students will get a chance to learn from experts and gain experience of high‑quality teaching and research offered in the UK. It reflects a broader trend in higher education. In the UK, flexible study is increasingly creating the conditions for much more effective global competition. Through CSCSE, York shows how pathways in UK universities can be broadened in terms of opportunity for international applicants and in supporting the next generation of graduates.

According to Skoobuzz, the High Achiever Programme is more than just a new curriculum; it is a unique chance to earn a world‑class degree. This programme integrates new perspectives, preparing students for success in an increasingly interconnected global society.

FAQs

1. What is the University of York International Pathway with CSCSE?

The University of York has partnered with the Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) to launch the High Achiever Programme. It offers international students a new route to complete an undergraduate study in the UK.

2. Which subjects are available in the High Achiever Programme?

The pathway is currently offered for degrees in Business and Computer Science, giving students flexible options to pursue undergraduate study in the UK.

3. How does the SQA Advanced Diploma fit into the programme?

The programme is built around the SQA Advanced Diploma, which is equal to the first two years of a UK undergraduate degree. Students complete this diploma in English before progressing to York.

4. What study options do international students have under this pathway? 

Students can either complete the SQA Advanced Diploma in China and transfer to York for their final year, or enter York directly in their second year through CSCSE’s partner universities.

5. What qualification will students receive after completing the programme?

All students who finish the pathway will graduate with a recognised University of York degree. The first cohort is expected to arrive in September 2026.

6. Why is this pathway important for international students?

The programme helps students build strong academic foundations, gain international experience, and prepare for careers in a global workforce. It also strengthens York’s role as a Russell Group university for global students.