IGCSE English as a Second Language: Listening, Writing, and Speaking
Preparing for your IGCSE English as a Second Language (ESL) exam can feel daunting. You are not just learning grammar
Announcement: Cambridge IGCSE, O Level and AS & A Level June 2025 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).
Announcement:
Cambridge International Education no longer be an Ofqual-recognised awarding organisation from December 20, 2024.
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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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.
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.
GCSEs are primarily taken in the United Kingdom, including England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, in Scotland, a different system of qualifications is used.
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.
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.
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.
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.).
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.
GCSEs are widely recognised within the United Kingdom and are the standard qualification for students in the UK education system.
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.
GCSEs offer less flexibility in terms of subject choices and the content of the qualifications. Students typically follow a prescribed set of subjects.
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 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.
Our internationally loved exam model answers had helped thousands of students in scoring A/A*. Schools and teachers worldwide have used these resources to aid in their teachings. Learn what an A* answer like, copy the style and score A* in your exam.
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.
Join 62,169 (and counting) IGCSE & AS/A Level subscribers who've taken our insanely valuable FREE email courses. Learn exam tips & score A* in your exam!
Join 62,169 (and counting) IGCSE & AS/A Level subscribers who’ve taken our insanely valuable FREE email courses. Learn exam tips & score A* in your exam!
Arun Joseph
Botswana
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2,343 responses
Hey there, at the time of writing this i am in year 12, which is the highest grade for secondary school level in my country, I’m thinking of studying IT or computer science, i would like to know the better choice, and i would like to know what exams are really necessary for that and i would also love to write IGCSE, so what subjects do i need to write to study IT or computer science, and can i gain admission with just my IGCSE results?
Hello Hakeem,
We strongly suggest that you get in touch with your preferred colleges/universities and get the confirmation on required subjects in accordance to the course you would like to study in the university. In this way, you would have 100% assurance that you have chosen the right subjects for your future studies.
Furthermore, after taking IGCSE, candidates usually proceed to A Level before university. However there are some university offer foundation programs which do not require A level. As such it is better to check the entry requirements either from the university’s website or contact the university directly.
Tell me about compulsory and selective books combination for IGCSE
Hello Wafa,
We suggest that you search on Amazon UK for suitable IGCSE reference books.
Thank you.
Hi….my son started igcse exams from year 10…. he’s now in year 12 he’ll take 3As and 2 o Level…
In order to meet requirements of our country secondary certificate equivalence he’ll still need 2 Al …. can he do year 13…. will be any problem in this???
Please need your advice…
Hello Minerva,
Thank you for writing in.
We believe that there will not be a problem if he will take 2 A Levels during his Year 13. But we strongly suggest that you consult your son’s school/exam centre for confirmation.
It is worth noting that there might be some clashes of exam timetable for A Level and O Level if your son plans to sit for both exams in the same examination series. We strongly recommend you to double confirm on the exam timetable before you proceed to exam registration.
Hi there,
I am doing IGCSE through my international school in Cambodia. So I know I have enough core subjects – my question is about an elective that is not offered at my school. I’d really like to take Cambridge IGCSE Development Studies (0453) – my school doesn’t offer it. What are my options for studying it independently? Do I need to enrol in it somewhere or can I study myself and just pay for the exam. we are open to finding online schooling option for this subject only but also don’t know how we would find out about who offers the subject.
Please help me understand my options!
Thanks for your help
Hello Abby,
Thank you for writing in.
You may study independently. We suggest that you start by downloading the latest syllabus (https://www.skolatis.com/cambridge-igcse-subjects-syllabuses/) so you will know what is required of you. Then you continue your revision by answering past exam papers (https://www.skolatis.com/cambridge-igcse-past-exam-papers/). Start with the latest paper and continue with the older ones dated back from 5 to 10 years. Make notes on the common mistakes you always seem to make. Read and annotate your textbook for the questions you got wrong so you can avoid making the same mistakes in your actual exam.
With regards to exam registration, you may register with your local British Council or locate any registered Cambridge schools in your local area here: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/i-want-to/find-a-cambridge-school/ and check with the school if they accept private candidates.
If you have further questions, feel free to write again. Thank you.
Hello,
My daughter did IGCSE Extended version and her results are as follows:
Chemistry D,
English A,
Business Studies E
Maths E
ICT A
Biology C
Now this year the children were graded without exams and only based on the evidences what the school provided. We are not happy with the results so wanted to know if its adviceable to retake the exams…or her 12th grade results too will be taken under consideration for admission to universities.
Hello Smitha,
We are very sorry to hear what happened.
Yes, we strongly suggest that you consider resitting the subjects. We still believe that exams remain the fairest and most reliable way to assess student achievement and the assessed grade may not reflect your daughter’s true capability.
Please kindly check the key registration dates here: https://www.skolatis.com/exam-registration-dates/
If your daughter is proceeding to A Level, her A Level results and IGCSE results would be taken into consideration as university admission, this is the normal entry requirement for most of the reputable universities.
what are the igcse o level grades to gpa? im really stuck
Hi Kutemwa,
CAIE does not calculate Grade Point Average for students as there is no universal way to calculate GPA. If the college/university requires you to submit your GPA, CAIE recommends that you contact your chosen university or a credential evaluator to calculate your GPA.