Short answer
NEB +2 is Nepal's national grade 11 and 12, offered in science, management, humanities, education and law streams at thousands of schools. Most Nepali universities and entrance exams are built around it. A levels are Cambridge International exams taught at private colleges in Kathmandu and a few cities. They cost much more but are familiar to universities abroad. If you plan to stay in Nepal for MBBS, engineering or a TU degree, +2 is the simpler route. If you're set on studying abroad and can afford it, A levels are a strong option, but you'll need an equivalence certificate to use them in Nepal.
The details
Side by side
| NEB +2 | A levels | |
|---|---|---|
| Run by | National Examinations Board, Nepal | Cambridge International, UK |
| Where | Schools and colleges across Nepal | Private colleges, mostly in cities |
| Cost | Low at community schools, higher at private ones | Much higher |
| Exams | Grade 11 and 12 board exams | Cambridge exams in the May to June or October to November series |
| Using it in Nepal | Accepted directly | Needs an equivalence certificate |
Common problems
Can I sit Nepal's MBBS or engineering entrance with A levels?
Yes, if you have the right subjects and an equivalence certificate. The medical entrance needs physics, chemistry and biology. IOE needs physics, chemistry and maths.
How do I get equivalence for A levels?
From the Curriculum Development Centre's Accreditation and Equivalence Branch in Sanothimi. You generally need at least three subjects at A level.
Which stream should I choose in +2?
Choose science if you want MBBS, nursing or engineering, because those need physics, chemistry and biology or maths. Management and humanities still lead to BBA, BCA, BIT, law and many other degrees.
Do colleges have entrance exams for +2?
Many popular schools and colleges hold their own entrance tests for grade 11 and A levels, usually soon after SEE results.
Real experiences
Been through this recently? Tell the next person which office you went to and what they asked for. Reports are published as community notes, apart from the official information.
Share your experienceSources
- National Examinations Boardneb.gov.np
- British Council: A level equivalence notice from the Curriculum Development Centrebritishcouncil.org.np
Written from the sources above and last checked on 8 Oct 2026. Some details aren't confirmed against an official page yet, so check fees and documents with the office before you go.
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