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Many candidates are confused when it comes to the permitted calculator for use in their Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics examinations.
While there is no specific guideline in terms of models or makes, there are certain rules from CIE to abide, and what you must know before you are heading to your calculator hunt.
There are three different mathematical subjects being offered by Cambridge IGCSE: Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580), Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) and Cambridge IGCSE International Mathematics (0607).
We will cover each of them separately below.
First, CIE has provided the answers for this frequently asked question.
Due to the sheer number of different calculator models available worldwide, we cannot give specific details of which models or makes of calculators are permitted in our exams.
Where the use of calculators is allowed in examinations, calculators used must not be able to manipulate algebra; they must be purely numerical integration/differentiation. Calculators with any of the following facilities are prohibited, unless specifically stated otherwise in the syllabus:
Cambridge will regard the use of any such calculator as malpractice. Students requiring more information should contact the Examinations Officer at their school.
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Whilst graphical calculators are indeed an excellent tool for students to use in class, as part of our assessment we often assess the candidate?s ability to plot graphs accurately, that they understand how to draw a best-fit line, and can correctly calculate a gradient showing their working. These are basic skills, which would not be assessed if candidates were to return an answer from their calculator.
(There is an exceptional case for candidates taking International Mathematics (0607) )
So, what does the syllabus say for each of the subject?
Let’s take a look.
The syllabus says:
Conclusion: You must take into consideration of the criteria from CIE answers above, and make sure the model that you are getting is not “Algebraic or graphical calculator”.
The syllabus says:
Conclusion: You must take into consideration of the criteria from CIE answers above, and get a calculator with “scientific functions”. Plus, get the confirmation from your school / exam centre for permitted models.
The syllabus says:
Conclusion: You must take into consideration of the criteria from CIE answers above, and make sure the model that you are getting does not contain “symbolic algebraic logic or other applications and programmes”.
Don’t be. 🙂
If you are still in doubt, just get the confirmation from your school / exam centre for permitted model. They are the one who has the last say on what is permitted to bring into the exam hall.
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Reinard Swart
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136 responses
hello IGCSE CENTER is Casio Classwiz FX-991 EX SCIENTIFIC CALCULATOR (12digits) is permited to use in Mathematics exams of (0580) ,please tell me !!
Hello Harshdeep,
We are not CAIE, which is the exam board. Get the confirmation from your exam centre for permitted model. They are the ones who have the final say on what is permitted. Thank you.
Can I use a GDC for accouniting exams? Our teacher refuses to let us use it and she also considers them ‘cheating’, but I feel more comfortable using a GDC than using the type of calculator she selected. Any help?
Hi Reem,
The use of graphical calculators are not allowed. Whilst graphical calculators are indeed an excellent tool for students to use in class, the exams assess the candidate?s ability to plot graphs accurately, that they understand how to draw a best-fit line, and can correctly calculate a gradient showing their working. These are basic skills, which would not be assessed if candidates were to return an answer from their calculator. However, there is an exception if you are taking International Mathematics (0607).
For the final confirmation, get confirmation from your Examination Officer from your school or exam centre for permitted model. They are the ones who have the final say on what is permitted.
I just want to ask people who have already attempted IGCSE exam , is it really hard because my exam is soon and I am really stressed and scared as it is my first experience In addition what is the hardest subject that it is difficult to achieve an A*
Hi Serin,
First of all, take a deep breath and relax. This article will help you: https://www.skolatis.com/how-to-handle-your-stress-when-exam-is-approaching/
Start as early as possible. You can revise the subjects from the beginning. Highlight the important facts that you think could be on the test (you should refer to the latest syllabus on what is expected during exams here: https://www.skolatis.com/cambridge-igcse-subjects-syllabuses/). You can then use the past exam papers (https://www.skolatis.com/cambridge-igcse-past-exam-papers/) as your revision. Start with the latest papers as they have the newest syllabus format and continue with the older ones date back from 5 to 10 years. Then, revise on the most common mistakes that you always seem to make. Pay attention to the most common mistakes you always seem to make. Make notes and revise them, so you can avoid making the same mistakes in your actual exam.
You might be interested in our online revision course. The revision course provides video tutorial, revision timetable, downloadable exam-style practices, common mistakes candidates make during the exams, and also examiners? advice. Every year we have two revision sessions. The first session will be March-April and the second one will be August-September. The registration for our March-April session is now open. You can decide if you need it now, or later. We suggest you take a few subjects now, then a few later. So you have enough time to revise everything. Please kindly find out the details here: https://www.skolatis.com/cambridge-igcse-revision-courses/
Hello IGCSE centre,
Is TI 84 plus ce allowed. Thank you
Hello,
Please read the article above to understand better on what is allowed and what is not.
For final confirmation, check with the Examination Officer from your school or exam centre on what?s the permitted model. They have the final say on what is permitted.
can i use casio fx-991ES PLUS for 0580. i am a private student
Hi Abraj,
Kindly read the above article to understand better on what is allowed and what is not.
For the final confirmation, get confirmation from your Examination Officer from your school or exam centre for permitted model. They are the ones who have the final say on what is permitted.