What is the IGCSE Curriculum?

An overview of the International General Certificate of Secondary Education

The IGCSE, or International General Certificate of Secondary Education, is the world’s number one secondary education programme. Developed by the University of Cambridge, it is the international version of the GCSE, but whilst GCSEs are only studied in the UK only, IGCSEs are adapted for a more internationally-focused student body and taught worldwide, with the aim of being as inclusive as possible to students from a wide variety of linguistic backgrounds.

The IGCSE is highly regarded for its focus on academic excellence and excellent preparation of students for higher academic studies or entry into the workplace.

Understanding the IGCSE course: structure, subjects and grading system

The IGCSE lasts 2 years and is typically studied by students aged 14-16. The courses finish with exams that students sit in the summer of their second year of study at the age of 16. Some subjects will also include a coursework component. The IGCSE uses A* – G grading scale, with A* being the highest and G the lowest. IGCSE certificates are a required condition for students to progress to higher education. For example, to enter the A-level programme, students usually need at least 5 IGCSE certificates with a minimum score of C.

How to choose the right IGCSE courses for your academic path

IGCSE subjects are a mixture of compulsory and elective subjects, with students given the opportunity to select their own combination of subjects and personalise their curriculum. Students can choose from 5 to 14 subjects, but the typical number is 6 to 7, with students encouraged to design a broad pathway including a range of subjects from different groups.

Compulsory subject groups include English, Mathematics and Sciences.
Elective subject groups include Languages (such as Spanish, German, French), Humanities (such as Global Perspectives, Geography, History,  English Literature), Professional and Creative (such as Art and Design, Business Studies, Computer Science, ICT, Drama).

Thames British School’s IGCSE courses: a pathway to academic excellence

At Thames British School’s Mokotów High School Campus, we offer internationally recognised curricula from the IGCSE to IB and A-Levels. Click here to learn more about our school and discover the endless possibilities that await your child’s future.