Announcement: Cambridge IGCSE, O Level, and International AS & A Level November 2023 past papers are now available.
IGCSE stands for “International General Certificate of Secondary Education.” It is an internationally recognised qualification for secondary school students, typically taken by students aged 14 to 16. IGCSE provides a broad and balanced education while also letting students to develop essential skills and knowledge.
IGCSE is equivalent to O Level, UK GCSE, fifth form or year 11 in respective countries and schools. It is the pre-requisite qualification before one proceeds to Advanced Level (A Level) or sixth form (year 12 & 13) or pre-university studies.
There are two main exam boards that offer IGCSE to international learners. Namely, Edexcel and CIE (Cambridge International Education).
In order to know which one is best for you, please follow the detailed analysis outlined here:
Determining whether Edexcel IGCSE or Cambridge IGCSE is “better” depends on several factors, including your goals, future studies, and subjects availability. Edexcel IGCSE and Cambridge IGCSE are international qualifications with similarities in grading and subject offerings.
Edexcel IGCSE has a much straight forward approach, with only one type of paper combination for all learners. Thus, all learners have equal chances to score grade A* (or grade 9 with the new grading scale system).
Cambridge IGCSE has more (and rather complicated) paper combinations. Exam entries are based on teachers’ grade prediction towards the learners. Therefore, teachers’ predictions are often contradicting with what learners wish to achieve at final exams. Consequently, resulting in lower paper entries that prevent the learners to achieve higher grade in the exams. Learners have complaint not able to adjust exam entries in time, and are facing high level of stress.
Here is one of the many SOS messages:
“I actually I want to study medicine. So u know that universities needed grades like A* TO B. but I knew the core grade’s maximum, so I shocked to hear that. If you imagine that I got the grade C but it is not related to the university requirements so it is not possible to enter to my dream careeer. I also paid the fees for the IGCSE exam. Our school, also didn’t explained that clearer. Ok, So is there any ways to change the curriculum from core to extended. Any way or method (suggestion from you) “
As a homeschooler, you have much more control in choosing the subjects and paper combination. This however, has to be done based on your future study and career plans. If you need help in deciding on your subject group, simply drop us a message at the comment box below. We shall reply you within 24 hours.
Besides the freedom to choose the subjects and paper combination, private candidate is also free to register for exam whenever they are ready.
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IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) and GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) are both qualifications that students in the United Kingdom and many other countries can earn, typically during their secondary education.
The main difference between IGCSE and GCSE lies in their geographic scope, curriculum, assessment methods, recognition, and flexibility. IGCSE is more internationally focused and flexible, while GCSE is primarily used in the UK and follows the UK national curriculum. Therefore, students and parents should consider these differences when choosing the most suitable qualification for their educational goals and circumstances.
GCSE: GCSEs are primarily taken in the United Kingdom, including England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, in Scotland, a different system of qualifications is used.
IGCSE: IGCSEs are designed for international students and are offered by Edexcel and CIE. They are not limited to the UK and are used in many countries as an international qualification.
GCSE: GCSEs follow the national curriculum of the United Kingdom. The relevant examination boards (for example AQA, OCR, etc.) in each of the UK nations determine the content and assessment methods.
IGCSE: IGCSEs do not necessarily follow the UK national curriculum. They often have a more global perspective and can be more flexible in terms of the subjects and content offered.
GCSE: GCSEs in the UK are assessed through a combination of coursework (controlled assessments) and final exams. The grading system for GCSEs uses letter grades (A*, A, B, C, etc.).
IGCSE: IGCSEs typically rely more heavily on final exams, with limited or no coursework. The grading system for IGCSEs may use letter grades or a numerical scale.
GCSE: GCSEs are widely recognised within the United Kingdom and are the standard qualification for students in the UK education system.
IGCSE: IGCSEs are recognized globally and may be more suitable for students who plan to study abroad or want to have their qualifications recognized in multiple countries.
GCSE: GCSEs offer less flexibility in terms of subject choices and the content of the qualifications. Students typically follow a prescribed set of subjects.
IGCSE: IGCSEs often offer more flexibility in subject choices, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and needs.
Universities and employers worldwide widely recognise and accept Edexcel IGCSE and Cambridge IGCSE qualifications.
Here are some examples international learners’ admissions into top universities globally.
Edexcel board currently offers 37 subjects for the International GCSE examinations. Edexcel’s iGCSE curricula are well established, and consistent throughout the learners’ learning journey. The curricula do not constantly change and thus learners can learn with peace of mind.
Learners may choose the subject combination based on their future studies in higher education.
Cambridge IGCSE offers more than 70 subjects. Students are required to take a minimum of 5 or maximum of 14 subjects. The core subjects are English, Mathematics and Sciences. Students can also choose other subjects ranging from Social Sciences (commonly Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Sociology) to Arts & Technology (commonly Computer Studies, Information & Communication Technology (ICT), Art & Design).
Student is awarded with one IGCSE certificate on each subject. For example, you will obtain 5 IGCSE certificates, if you take 5 subjects. Each school decides upon the number of compulsory subjects differently. However, a private candidate may decides based on individual preference.
Edexcel iGCSE curricula are well-established, stable and based on current international audience requirements. Besides that, they have more extensive and wide range of topics that are prerequisite knowledge prior to International A Level studies.
Example topics and chapters that are available in Edexcel iGCSE, but not in Cambridge IGCSE:
Cambridge IGCSE curricula are regularly updated and extended on a yearly or every 2-year basis. Therefore, this has become a great challenge for learners, parents and teachers to catch up with the constant changes.
Example incident:
A teacher in a private school in the UK was not aware of the change of syllabus for English First Language. We managed to assist her with the new exam syllabus just 2 months prior to the exams.
In view of the constant change of Cambridge IGCSE syllabus, here at Skolatis, we have developed a system to keep updating our course material so that candidates are learning the right exam syllabus. Parents can have peace of mind that their children are learning the right syllabus.
Cambridge IGCSE Curriculum is divided into 6 main subject groups. Each group contains several subjects which learners can choose from, in order to fulfil the minimum required subjects.
Edexcel IGCSEs typically include written examinations, coursework, and practical assessments. The weightage of these components may vary depending on the subject.
Cambridge IGCSEs primarily rely on written examinations, with limited coursework and practical components. Assessment methods can vary by subject.
Edexcel IGCSE exams typically occur in January and June, standardised globally. Starting from November 2023, Edexcel has introduced the November series, replacing the January series. January 2023 was the last January series for Edexcel IGCSE. Therefore, from year 2024 onwards, Edexcel IGCSE is taking place in May/June and October/November.
Please refer to Edexcel IGCSE exam timetable and exam registration key dates for more information.
Cambridge IGCSE exams usually take place in May/June and October/November. With exceptional cases of March series for India, Romania and some schools in the Middle East.
Please refer to Cambridge IGCSE exam timetable and exam registration key dates for more information.
Note:
Although IGCSE and O Level are equivalent qualifications grade for grade, they are two different qualifications. IGCSE syllabus meets international standards while O Levels syllabus meets specific local needs in each country. Other notable differences are the grading scale, assessment techniques, and coursework options.
| IGCSE | O Level | |
| Grading | Grades are awarded from A* (highest grade) to G (lowest) | Grades are awarded from A* to E |
| Assessment techniques | Tests oral and practical skills | Focuses on writing and reading skills in language subjects Restricted practical test options in sciences |
| Coursework options | Available in many syllabuses | Fewer coursework options |
* If you need help in choosing between IGCSE and O Level, just leave us a question at the comment box below. We are more than happy to guide you.
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Our word-renowned IGCSE and AS/A Level courses had produced more than 1100 A/A* scorers worldwide. They are suitable for schooled or home-schooled candidates, and as full course or revision course.
We have the most complete past exam papers library on earth (no kidding!). Choose your exam board and download everything with one click.
Get the latest exam syllabus and plan your study accordingly.
Find out the exam registration and results released key dates for IGCSE and AS/A Level.
Check your administrative zone, the exam dates and time. For both IGCSE and AS/A Level.
Find and locate the nearest exam centre for your location.
Please kindly read the IGCSE FAQs here.
Note: CIE (Cambridge International Examination board) has its name changed to CAIE (Cambridge Assessment International Education) since October 2017.
In October 2023, CAIE updated its name, logo, look, and messaging. Cambridge International Education is the new name of the awarding body of Cambridge University Press & Assessment. This name will be used on materials related to administering exams and awarding qualifications.
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Following IGCSE results release dates, many questions arise pertaining to: We have compiled most of the frequently asked questions after
When will IGCSE results be out? Usually results will be released in August for June series, and in January for
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2,343 Responses
I am really like to learn IGCSE subjects mainly on mathematics
Hello Yonathan,
You can join our free IGCSE Mathematics tutorials. You get to choose which topics you want us to cover by voting for your favourite topics. The topic with the most votes will get video tutorials and Q&A sessions.
To join, please visit the free lesson page here: https://skolatis.com/free-mathematics-online-lesson-and-qa-session/
We look forward to seeing you at the tutorials!
Thank you for sharing.
Hi Meena,
We are happy to help! Feel free to browse Skolatis for more resources.
Hi just what to know which board is harder the Indian board etc icse and cbse or cambridge
Hi Nathan,
We cannot confirm which qualification is the hardest.
We can suggest choosing the exam board that best fits your goals and plans.
For example, if you wish to study at an international university, it is best to take the IGCSE. International universities accept IGCSE certificates to gain entry into their universities.
We suggest that you take time to plan and align your goals. It will help if you learn about the different qualifications.
Here are some blog posts that might be helpful to you:
Cambridge IGCSE: https://skolatis.com/what-is-igcse/
Cambridge O Level: https://skolatis.com/what-is-o-level/
Edexcel iGCSE: https://skolatis.com/what-is-edexcel-international-gcse/
We hope this helps! Good luck!
Hello I am emailing from new zealand. my son is doing IGCSE for the first time and I would like to ask you for help in all his subjects as he is struggled with Geography, English, Spanish and also Art and design, he can manage Maths but I still help from you as our exam system is different from yours. please direct me to the right place
Hi Rach,
Thank you for your message.
You might be interested in our online IGCSE revision courses. You may check the available subjects here: https://www.skolatis.com/revision-courses/.
Here are also some revision tips to help your son with his exam preparations:
1. Revise the subjects from the beginning. Refer to the latest syllabus on what is expected during exams. You can download the subject syllabus here: https://www.skolatis.com/cambridge-igcse-subjects-syllabuses/
2. Use the past exam papers (https://www.skolatis.com/cambridge-igcse-past-exam-papers/) as revision. Please start with the latest papers as they have the newest syllabus format and continue with the older ones date back from 5 years.
3. He should pay attention to the most common mistakes he always seems to make. Make him take notes and revise them to avoid making the same mistakes in his actual exam.
We hope this helps.
If there’s anything we can assist you with, don’t hesitate to contact us. Thank you.
How can I join IGCSE secondary? I am currently sec 1
Hello there,
Thank you for writing in.
We would love to help you with your question. It would be a great help for us if you can provide the following information:
– What do you mean by sec 1?
– Are you currently a schooled student in a registered Cambridge school?
Thank you, and we look forward to your response.
Is going to an IGCSE centre worth leaving school, and is it better?
Hello Sedrah,
Thank you for writing in.
Many private candidates use our A* Online Courses for their home education programme as our courses are complete and comprehensive.
But we also have members who are using our courses together with their studies at school, and they have experienced tremendous mark improvements at school.
You can check out our A* online courses here: https://www.skolatis.com/online-courses/.
If you wish to manage your time by yourself and practice self-discipline, studying as a private candidate can be of benefit for your future. We suggest that you take time to decide and consult your parents before leaving school.
Please feel free to contact us if you require further assistance. Thank you.
How can I join the igcse secondary
Hi Phoo Pwint Yati,
As a private candidate, you can register with the local British Council on your country, or you can locate any registered Cambridge schools near your area that accepts private candidate. You can find a list of registered Cambridge school here: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/why-choose-us/find-a-cambridge-school/.
You may want to consider our A* Online courses for your IGCSE exam preparations. These courses produced thousands of A* scorers worldwide. Please kindly check them out here: https://www.skolatis.com/online-courses/.
Should you need further assistance, feel free to contact us. Thank you.
When will IGCSE February March 2021 results are released in India is marking easy this year due to corona virus but please reply . I wanted to know
Hello Simran,
Please kindly check the key dates here: https://www.skolatis.com/exam-registration-dates/
As far as we know, CAIE will use their usual approach to grading exams wherein they use a variety of statistical and judgemental methods. These methods help CAIE maintain the awarding standard from one year to the next. Furthermore, aligning the awarding standards ensures that the competition will be fair, without giving an unfair advantage or disadvantage to Cambridge candidates.
We hope this helps. Thank you.