Exams / Cambridge IGCSE

Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education

Cambridge IGCSE is an internationally recognised qualification typically taken around age 16, offered by international and private schools worldwide as a foundation before A-Levels or an equivalent.

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Format and subjects

Students typically study five to nine subjects, mixing compulsory areas (usually English, Mathematics, and a science) with electives. Assessment varies by subject and includes written papers, coursework, and practical or oral components — languages and sciences in particular often carry a practical or speaking element alongside the written exam.

Grading

Most subjects are graded on a 9-to-1 scale (9 being the highest), though some are still graded A*–G depending on the syllabus. Universities and sixth forms typically look for a strong spread of grades across core subjects rather than one standout result.

How to prepare

Cambridge publishes past papers and mark schemes openly, and working through several years' worth under timed conditions is the most reliable way to learn exactly how marks are awarded — IGCSE examiners are often precise about what earns credit versus what looks right but misses the mark scheme's specific wording.