BIS Abu Dhabi Student Achieves Highest Grade in the World for IGCSE Business Studies
By The British International School Abu Dhabi, BSME Member School
This article was featured in the BSME Newsletter 2025-26 | Read the Full Newsletter Here
The British International School (BIS) Abu Dhabi is proud to announce that Year 12 student Wadeed has achieved the highest grade in the world for the 2025 IGCSE Business Studies exam, scoring an exceptional 149 out of 160. In recognition of this outstanding accomplishment, Wadeed received a Headteacher’s Commendation Award from Mrs. McGlue, celebrating his academic excellence and personal growth.
Wadeed’s journey to global recognition is one marked by determination, strategic learning, and a deep passion for the subject. Initially challenged by exam technique and confidence in Year 10, he transformed his approach in Year 11 by adopting active recall methods, using flashcards, and consistently practicing past papers. He also studied examiner reports to understand how to structure high-scoring answers and developed a flexible framework for tackling longer questions, integrating case study material with economic concepts.
His teachers played a pivotal role in supporting his development. Ms. Chowdhury said “Wadeed was always curious and thoughtful. He embraced feedback, worked hard to deepen his understanding, and consistently applied his learning in meaningful ways. His achievement is a reflection of his growth and the collaborative effort between student and teacher.”
The Business Studies curriculum at BIS Abu Dhabi encourages students to think critically, explore real-world scenarios, and apply theory in practical contexts.
Through masterclasses, peer assessments, and structured revision support, students like Wadeed are empowered to reach their full potential.
Now studying IB Business Management at Higher Level, Wadeed continues to inspire his peers and mentor his younger sister, sharing study tips and strategies that helped him succeed. His story is a powerful example of how passion, persistence, and high-quality teaching can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
His win underscores a broader truth: when students are given the tools, the trust, and the time to pursue their passions independently, remarkable things can happen. The Study Space programme may have been made in two weeks, but the skills, determination, and vision behind it have been years in the making.
"I never imagined I’d get the highest mark in the world. But once I understood how to structure my answers and apply different perspectives, everything started to click." - Wadeed