What is IGCSE?
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is one of the most recognized qualifications around the world. IGCSE courses are renowned for developing vital educational skills,including recall of knowledge, oral skills, problem solving, initiative, team work and investigative skills.
IGCSE caters for different levels of ability with
a choice between core and extended papers in many subjects.
The core curriculum is based on an overview of the subject
and is suitable for students expected to achievegrades
C to G. The extended curriculum is more challenging and
designed for students who are expected to achieve grades
A* to C. Grades achieved through either route have the
same value.
Where is IGCSE accepted and recognised?
IGCSE is a high profile qualification. It has exactly the same value in admitting students to institutes of further education and employment as the UK equivalent –GCSE.
• IGCSE is comparable with GCE O Level and the UK GCSE
• IGCSE has an excellent reputation amongst international schools worldwide
• IGCSEs are recognised as a reliable record of attainment which counts towards entry to universities and colleges around the world
• A good grade (i.e. C or above) in IGCSE English as a Second Language is accepted for entry by almost all universities in the UK and many in the USA, Canada and Australia as evidence of adequate competence in the English language.
Who can take IGCSE?
IGCSE is designed to be taught as a two year course for students aged 14 to 17 years. In some countries IGCSE courses last just one year and there are no formal age regulations.
In most subjects there is a choice between core and extended curricula, making IGCSE suitable for a wide range of abilities. Students can enter for the level that is most appropriate for them and this need not be the same across all subjects.
How is IGCSE taught?
At school, students are encouraged to study a wide range of subjects at IGCSE level, at the same time. In order to follow a broad and balanced curriculum, many students take courses from each of the IGCSE groups, particularly if they’re aiming to go on to further education. This can lead to the award of the International Certificate of Education – an additional qualification that recognises students who pass exams in seven or more subjects, including two languages and one subject from each of the other groups. However it is also possible to study a free choice of IGCSE subjects.
The syllabus is set by Cambridge, but the exact way it is taught will depend on your school or college. The course differs for each subject, but throughout there will be a mix of assessment methods, including coursework, practical exercises, oral and listening tests, projects and written examinations.
Examination Information
IGCSE courses usually take two years to complete and exams are taken at the end of that period. Examinations are held in June and November each year with results issued in August and February respectively.
