Competitive Exams

IIT JEE, NEET, ESE, GATE, AE/JE, Olympiad

Only IAS

UPSC, State PSC

School Preparation

Foundation (Class 6-12), Commerce, Arts, CuriousJr (1st - 8th), Science, International Boards

Govt Exam

Judiciary, SSC, Defence, Teaching, JAIIB & CAIIB, BIHAR EXAMS WALLAH, UP Exams, Railway, Nursing Exams, Banking, WB Exams

UG & PG Entrance Exams

MBA, IPMAT, IIT JAM, LAW, CUET UG, UGC NET, GMAT, Design & Architecture, Pharma, CSIR NET, CUET PG, NEET PG

FINANCE

CA, CS, Finance Courses, ACCA

Others

English Wallah, Online Degrees

English Proficiency Test

IELTS, TOEFL

Agriculture

Most Effective Tips to Ace Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade

Get the Most Effective Tips to Ace Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade. Understand what an A* grade signifies, why it matters, and how to achieve it with smart preparation. Read below!

Praveen Kushwah19 Nov, 2024

Most Effective Tips to Ace Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade : Achieving an A* in your Cambridge IGCSE exams is a realistic goal when you combine the right strategies with consistent effort and focus. Cambridge IGCSE is recognized worldwide for its challenging curriculum, requiring students to build strong foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Excelling in these exams demands more than just hard work; it requires effective planning, smart study techniques, and a disciplined approach. With confidence, dedication, and the right preparation methods, you can tackle your exams effectively and achieve the top grades you are aiming for. Let’s explore the most proven strategies to help you succeed in Cambridge IGCSE and secure those dreamed A* grades.

**What is an A* Grade in Cambridge IGCSE?**

In Cambridge IGCSE exams, an A* grade is the highest grade a student can achieve. It represents exceptional performance and demonstrates a thorough understanding of the subject, the ability to apply knowledge effectively, and strong critical thinking skills.

**A* Grade in Cambridge IGCSE Key Highlights**

Grading Scale

The Cambridge IGCSE grading system traditionally uses an A-G scale*, where A* is the top grade and G is the lowest passing grade.
Some schools opt for the 9-1 grading system , where 9 is equivalent to A* in the traditional scale.

Percentage Range for A *

Typically, an A* is awarded to students scoring approximately 90-100% , although the exact percentage required may vary slightly based on the subject and year.

Core vs. Extended Curriculum

The A* grade is only available to students who take the Extended Curriculum, which includes more advanced content.
Students taking the Core Curriculum can achieve a maximum grade of C.

Cambridge IGCSE Grading System

The Cambridge IGCSE Grading System uses an A*-G scale to evaluate student performance, with A* being the highest grade. Each grade reflects mastery, ranging from exceptional to sufficient understanding.

Cambridge IGCSE Grading System
Grade	Percentage Range	Description
A *	90-100%	Exceptional performance
A	80-89%	Excellent performance
B	70-79%	Good performance
C	60-69%	Satisfactory performance (Pass)
D	50-59%	Fair performance
E	40-49%	Sufficient performance
F	30-39%	Poor performance
G	20-29%	Very poor performance
U	Below 20%	Ungraded (minimum standard not met)

Notes:

The A-G* grading scale is the traditional system used in Cambridge IGCSE.
Some schools may opt for the 9-1 grading system , where 9 is equivalent to an A*.

Difference Between IGCSE VS ICSE

**What is the Value and Importance of A* Grade?**

An A* grade is highly regarded by colleges, universities, and employers worldwide as it reflects academic excellence.
It demonstrates that a student has mastered the subject at a high level and is prepared for advanced studies, such as A Levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB).

**Most Effective Tips to Ace Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade**

Here are the Most Effective Tips to Ace Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade shared by the experts:

Understand the Cambridge IGCSE Syllabus

The first step to effective preparation is understanding the Cambridge IGCSE syllabus . Make sure to download the latest version from the exam board’s official website. Break the syllabus into smaller sections, making it easier to manage and track. Focus on commonly tested topics and ensure every part is thoroughly covered. This organized approach will help you know exactly what to study and prevent unnecessary last-minute stress.

Create a Balanced Study Plan

A well-structured study plan keeps you organized and ensures you use your time wisely. Divide your day into three parts: eight hours for sleep, eight for school or daily activities, and eight for studying and relaxation. Use a calendar to schedule specific study times, set achievable goals, and include short breaks to stay refreshed. Balancing your study sessions with breaks will keep you motivated and prevent burnout.

Use Active Learning Techniques

Active learning is a powerful way to strengthen your understanding. Summarizing what you have learned at the end of each session helps you remember key points. Flashcards are especially useful for Cambridge IGCSE subjects like history, science, and literature. You can create them for quick revision or to memorize important details. Practice questions regularly, especially concept-based ones, to deepen your understanding. Review your answers to identify mistakes and improve.

Revise Consistently and Effectively

Regular revision is essential to retaining what you have studied. Instead of cramming everything at once, plan shorter, frequent revision sessions. Use methods like blurting, where you write down all you remember about a topic and then compare it with your notes to fill in gaps. For visual learners, creating mind maps can make connections between topics clearer and make revision more engaging.

Practice Past Papers Regularly

Past papers are an excellent way to prepare for Cambridge IGCSE exams, as they familiarize you with the format, common question types, and time constraints. Create exam-like conditions by practicing under timed settings and check your answers using mark schemes. PW International Boards provides high-quality Cambridge IGCSE past papers with explanations, as well as predicted papers, which can be incredibly helpful for focused preparation. By regularly practicing these papers, you will build confidence and improve your time management.

Prepare Notes Instead of Relying on Textbooks

Using your own notes is much more effective than relying solely on textbooks. Start by taking notes during lessons or while studying, focusing on the most important information. These notes should be simple, clear, and ready for quick revisions. Avoid waiting until the last minute to create them—having well-prepared notes months in advance will save you time and stress during the Cambridge IGCSE exam period.

Use Trusted Resources for Learning

Using accurate and reliable resources is crucial for efficient preparation. Stick to resources that match your Cambridge IGCSE syllabus and provide accurate information. PW International Boards offers excellent notes, detailed lessons, and predicted papers tailored to the Cambridge IGCSE curriculum. These resources are designed to maximize your learning and help you focus on the areas that matter most for your exams. Remember, it’s not about collecting too many materials but using the best ones effectively.

Use Group Learning to Clarify Doubts

Studying with others can make learning easier and more enjoyable. Join a study group or pair up with classmates to discuss difficult topics and share ideas. Explaining concepts to others can strengthen your understanding, while hearing different perspectives may help you approach challenging questions in new ways. Group discussions can also keep you motivated and engaged.

Make the Most of Your Final Days

As the Cambridge IGCSE exams approach, focus on revision rather than learning new material. Use flashcards, blurting techniques, or past papers to quickly review important topics. Write down your exam dates in a visible place and create a timetable to manage your final days effectively. Practice timed sessions to improve your speed and accuracy while building confidence.

Stay Consistent and Confident

Finally, focus on mastering topics one at a time rather than rushing to cover everything. Practice key definitions, formulas, or quotes relevant to your Cambridge IGCSE exams. If you find something particularly challenging, revisit it calmly or seek help. Stay positive and trust the preparation you have done. With determination and smart strategies, you can achieve the grades you are aiming for.

International Boards Other Related Topics
IGCSE Chemistry Syllabus	IGCSE Biology Syllabus

Most Effective Tips to Ace Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade FAQs

How do you get an A* in Cambridge IGCSE?

Understand the syllabus, revise consistently, practice past papers, and use active learning techniques like flashcards and mind maps.

How to score A* in Cambridge IGCSE?

Create a study plan, focus on key topics, revise regularly, and practice under timed conditions using past papers.

Is 70% in Cambridge IGCSE good?

Yes, 70% is a good score, equivalent to a B grade, but aiming higher can improve your overall performance.

Can I get an A* if I start preparing late?

Yes, focus on important topics, revise effectively, and use concise resources to maximize your preparation time.

Do I need the Extended Curriculum for an A*?

Yes, the A* grade is only available for students taking the Extended Curriculum, not the Core Curriculum.

🔥 Trending Blogs

Cambridge AS and A Level Physics Syllabus 2025, Key Changes, Assessment Overview

Cambridge IGCSE Timetable 2025, Test Date Windows, Check the Week Wise Timetable

Cambridge AS and A Level Chemistry Syllabus 2025, Key Changes, Assessment Overview, Download PDF!

Cambridge IGCSE Past Question Papers PDF with Solutions

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

Talk to a counsellorHave doubts? Our support team will be happy to assist you!

7019243492

07019243492

Check out these Related Articles

INTERNATIONAL BOARDS

IGCSE Syllabus 2024, Subject wise Cambridge Curriculum

Read Full Story

5 Feb 2025, 06:07 pm

INTERNATIONAL BOARDS

60 Day Study Plan to Score A* in Physics IGCSE, Cambridge Physics IGCSE

Read Full Story

5 Feb 2025, 06:07 pm

INTERNATIONAL BOARDS

Cambridge AS And A Level Syllabus, Subject Wise AS & A Level Curriculum

Read Full Story

5 Feb 2025, 06:07 pm

INTERNATIONAL BOARDS

Cambridge IGCSE vs Cambridge O Levels: Which is Better? Key Differences

Read Full Story

5 Feb 2025, 06:07 pm

INTERNATIONAL BOARDS

What Are Cambridge Grade Thresholds? Detailed, Examples, Importance, Preparation Tips

Read Full Story

5 Feb 2025, 06:07 pm

INTERNATIONAL BOARDS

Most Effective Tips to Ace Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade

Read Full Story

5 Feb 2025, 06:07 pm

INTERNATIONAL BOARDS

What Are Cambridge AS and A Level?

Read Full Story

5 Feb 2025, 06:07 pm

INTERNATIONAL BOARDS

IGCSE Physics Syllabus 2024, Cambridge IGCSE Syllabus, Preparation Tips, Download PDF!

Read Full Story

5 Feb 2025, 06:07 pm

INTERNATIONAL BOARDS

IGCSE Mathematics Syllabus, Cambridge IGCSE Syllabus, Preparation Tips, Download PDF!

Read Full Story

5 Feb 2025, 06:07 pm

Join 15 Million students on the app today!

Live & recorded classes available at ease

Dashboard for progress tracking

Millions of practice questions at your fingertips

Free Learning Resources

PW Books

Notes (Class 10-12)

Class 10 Math's Notes

Class 10 Chemistry Notes

Class 10 Physics Notes

lass 10 Biology Notes

Aptitude & Reasoning

Class 10 Geography

Physics Class 11 Notes

Class 11 Chemistry Notes

Maths Notes Class 11

Zoology Class 11

Class 11 Botany Notes

Physics Class 12 notes

Chemistry Class 12

Maths Notes Class 12

Zoology class 12

Class 12th Botany Notes

PW Study Materials

Arjuna JEE Study Material

JEE 5 PYQs

JEE Mind Maps

Yakeen Study Material

NCERT Punch

Arjuna Neet Study Material

NEET PYQs

CBSE Sample Paper

CBSE Question Bank

Udaan For Class 10th Study Material

Notes (Class 6-9)

Class-6 Theory & Notes

Math's Notes for class 7

Science Notes for class 7

Class 8 Math Notes

Class 8 Chemistry Notes

Class 8 Physics Notes

Class 8 Biology Notes

Class 8 SST Notes

Class 9 Math's Notes

Class 9 Physics Notes

Class 9 Chemistry Notes

Class 9 Biology Notes

Ncert Solutions

NCERT Solutions For Class 6

NCERT Solutions For class 7

NCERT Solutions for class 8

NCERT Solutions for class 9

NCERT Solutions for class 10

NCERT Solutions for class 11

NCERT Solutions for Class 12

NCERT Solutions For Class 6

Govt Exams

Entrance Exams

Our Other Websites

Class 6th to 12th Online Courses

Class 12 Online Course

Class 11 Online Course

Class 10 Online Course

Class 9 Online Course

Class 8 Online Course

Govt Job Exams Courses

SSC Online Coaching

Bank Exam Online Coaching

TET Online Coaching

JAIIB & CAIIB Online Coaching

Bihar Exam Online Coaching

UPSC Coaching

UPSC Online Coaching

UPSC Offline & Hybrid Coaching

State PSC Online Coaching

UPPSC Online Coaching

BPSC Online Coaching

Defence Exam Coaching

NDA Online Coaching

CDS Online Coaching

AFCAT Online Coaching

Agniveer Online Coaching

Gate Exam Coaching

Civil Engineering Courses

Mechanical Engineering Courses

Formulas

Other Exams

Company Secretary Exam

Know about Physics Wallah

Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.

We Stand Out because

We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.

Our Key Focus Areas

Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.

What Makes Us Different

Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others

**What is an A* Grade in Cambridge IGCSE?**

**A* Grade in Cambridge IGCSE Key Highlights**

Grading Scale

The Cambridge IGCSE grading system traditionally uses an A-G scale*, where A* is the top grade and G is the lowest passing grade.
Some schools opt for the 9-1 grading system , where 9 is equivalent to A* in the traditional scale.

Percentage Range for A *

Typically, an A* is awarded to students scoring approximately 90-100% , although the exact percentage required may vary slightly based on the subject and year.

Core vs. Extended Curriculum

The A* grade is only available to students who take the Extended Curriculum, which includes more advanced content.
Students taking the Core Curriculum can achieve a maximum grade of C.

Cambridge IGCSE Grading System

Cambridge IGCSE Grading System
Grade	Percentage Range	Description
A *	90-100%	Exceptional performance
A	80-89%	Excellent performance
B	70-79%	Good performance
C	60-69%	Satisfactory performance (Pass)
D	50-59%	Fair performance
E	40-49%	Sufficient performance
F	30-39%	Poor performance
G	20-29%	Very poor performance
U	Below 20%	Ungraded (minimum standard not met)

Notes:

The A-G* grading scale is the traditional system used in Cambridge IGCSE.
Some schools may opt for the 9-1 grading system , where 9 is equivalent to an A*.

Difference Between IGCSE VS ICSE

**What is the Value and Importance of A* Grade?**

An A* grade is highly regarded by colleges, universities, and employers worldwide as it reflects academic excellence.
It demonstrates that a student has mastered the subject at a high level and is prepared for advanced studies, such as A Levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB).

**Most Effective Tips to Ace Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade**

Here are the Most Effective Tips to Ace Cambridge IGCSE Exams with A* Grade shared by the experts:

Understand the Cambridge IGCSE Syllabus

Create a Balanced Study Plan

Use Active Learning Techniques

Revise Consistently and Effectively

Practice Past Papers Regularly

Prepare Notes Instead of Relying on Textbooks

Use Trusted Resources for Learning

Use Group Learning to Clarify Doubts

Make the Most of Your Final Days

Stay Consistent and Confident

International Boards Other Related Topics
IGCSE Chemistry Syllabus	IGCSE Biology Syllabus