Cambridge IGCSE Curriculum - Origin, Subjects, Grading System, Exam Pattern

IGCSE Curriculum : If you are a parent of a grade 9th or 10th child seeking the best education options that meet international standards, then this article is for you. As you already know from the heading, this article is about the IGCSE curriculum, which can sometimes seem complex but it is not in reality. In this article, we aim to simplify everything about the IGCSE Curriculum and bust misconceptions about this curriculum, but before going ahead, let's understand first “What is IGCSE”

What is IGCSE?

Fact : The above paragraph clarifies a common misconception that IGCSE is a board whereas the truth is that it’s a curriculum that provides an educational framework, and different boards offer their own version of IGCSE.

Origin of IGCSE

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Purpose and Goals of IGCSE

Cambridge IGCSE Curriculum

Cambridge Pathway

• Cambridge Early Years (for age 3+)
• Cambridge Primary (for age 5+)
• Cambridge Lower Secondary (for age 11+)
• Cambridge Upper Secondary or (IGCSE) (for age 14+)
• Cambridge Advanced (for age 16+)

1. Subject Selection & Flexibility The Cambridge IGCSE curriculum offers unparalleled academic flexibility. With over 70 subjects including 30 languages to choose from students can tailor their education to match their interests and career aspirations. Cambridge IGCSE specifically consists of Six subject groups , and their related subjects are:

Fact: The number of subjects a student should select depends on the school and student, usually schools advise students to select 7-9 subjects out of which usually English language, English Literature, Mathematics, Any two from the Sciences group, Any two Humanities group and one from a creative group is the combination.

Difference Between IGCSE Core & Extended

Academic Difficulty Level of IGCSE

IGCSE Exam Pattern and Assessment

• Cambridge IGCSE assessment takes place at the end of the course and can include written oral, coursework, and practical assessment.
• Cambridge IGCSE examination sessions occur twice a year, in June and November. Whereas there’s an exclusive series for India in March. Results are issued in August and January.
• In the first year of Cambridge IGCSE exams are conducted by schools internally and at the end of two years Cambridge conducts an exam in which the entire IGCSE syllabus is assessed.
• The IGCSE uses a variety of assessment methods, including written examinations, oral tests, coursework, and practical assessments. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-rounded evaluation of student abilities.

Benefits of the IGCSE Assessment Approach

Cambridge IGCSE Grading System

IGCSE Result

IGCSE Recognition and Acceptance

Cambridge IGCSE Subject Selection Process

1. Align with Interests and Goals - Choose subjects based on your interests and future aspirations. For instance, if you plan to pursue engineering, select subjects that provide relevant knowledge and preparation, like Physics and Advanced Mathematics. Similarly, if you aim to study medicine, opt for Biology along with other Science subjects.
2. Quality Over Quantity - Top-ranking universities prioritize top grades and overall performance rather than the number of subjects taken. Focus on excelling in the subjects you choose.
3. General Guidance for Uncertain Students - If you're unsure about your future career, select subjects that genuinely interest you. This will help keep you motivated and engaged.
4. Subject-Specific Insights:

Cambridge IGCSE Board Vs. Indian Education Boards

Top Cambridge IGCSE Curriculum Schools in India

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