Higher Level Course
The Higher Level – deepens understanding of Sanskrit grammar with focus on study and translation of Sanskrit literature. This course inspires learners to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the Sanskrit language and literature, and culminates with the internationally recognised IGCSE exam. The Cambridge International Sanskrit IGCSE course focuses on skills of translation, as well as appreciating the literature which forms some of the foundations of Eastern traditions.
Study of the literature is enriched by the Epic Civilisation module of the IGCSE syllabus. This places the texts in their philosophical, cultural, social and historical contexts.
The IGCSE Course is presented over a period of 2 to 3 years.
Cost: R1300
Term 1 2026
- Classes start week of 26 Jan 2026.
- Term runs for 10 weeks.
- Classes are held once a week.
- Classes generally start at 19:30.
- Each class will be 90mins.
For more details contact the class administrator.
Course Content
The course is designed to consolidate what has been learnt at the intermediate level, and deepens understanding of Sanskrit grammar with focus on study and translation of Sanskrit literature.
Understanding is deepened on various concepts namely:
Grammar:
- Nouns, adjectives and pronouns and their application of the various endings (declensions).
- Verbs and the changes to it (conjugations) according to tense, number and person.
- Construct sentences in Sanskrit.
Literature:
- Verses from the Bhagavad Gītā.
- Prose stories from the Mahābhārata.
- Epic Civilisation - cultural and philosophical background to the Sanskrit Epics.
- Prose – Hitopadeśa - Five original prose selections from ‘A Sanskrit Reader’ by C R Lanman.
Pre-requisites
Outcomes
At the end of the course students will:
- Have enhanced their Sanskrit vocabulary and grammar skills.
- Be reading with greater understanding and confidence.
- Be reciting verses with better understanding.
- Have skills to translate from Sanskrit into English, and vice versa.
- Be able to read and write in Devanagari script.
- Be able to read, understand, appreciate and respond to Sanskrit literature.
- Be able to start translating a variety of Sanskrit Literature.