What Is the IGCSE Syllabus?

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is the world’s most popular international qualification for 14-16 year olds. Developed by Cambridge Assessment International Education (part of the University of Cambridge), the IGCSE syllabus offers over 70 subjects, giving students extraordinary flexibility to tailor their education to their strengths, interests, and university ambitions.

But with so many choices, navigating the IGCSE syllabus can feel overwhelming. Which subjects are compulsory? How many should you take? Which combinations work best for your future plans? This guide answers every question parents and students have about the IGCSE syllabus in 2026.

IGCSE Syllabus Structure: How It Works

Core vs Extended Curriculum

Many IGCSE subjects offer two tiers:

• Core curriculum — covers the essential content and targets grades C to G
• Extended curriculum — covers the full syllabus and targets grades A* to E

Most students aiming for A-Levels, IB, or university entry should take the Extended curriculum. Your school will advise on which tier is appropriate based on your ability level.

Assessment Methods

IGCSE assessment varies by subject but typically includes:

• Written examinations (most subjects)
• Coursework/portfolio (Art & Design, some others)
• Practical examinations (Sciences — either practical or Alternative to Practical paper)
• Oral/listening tests (Languages)
• Multiple choice papers (some Science and Maths papers)

Most subjects are assessed through two or three examination papers, sat in either the May/June or October/November exam sessions.

Complete IGCSE Subject List 2026

Languages

Subject	Code	Notes
English — First Language	0500	Most common; tests reading and writing
English — Second Language	0510/0511	For non-native speakers; includes listening
English — Literature in English	0475	Poetry, prose, and drama analysis
French	0520	Listening, reading, writing, speaking
Spanish	0530	Listening, reading, writing, speaking
German	0525	Listening, reading, writing, speaking
Chinese — First Language	0509	For native/near-native speakers
Chinese — Second Language	0523	For non-native learners
Arabic — First Language	0508	Available in select centres
Malay — First Language	0696	Available in select centres
Hindi	0549	Second language
Urdu	0539	Second language

Plus many more languages — Cambridge offers over 30 language IGCSEs.

Sciences

Subject	Code	Notes
Biology	0610	Popular choice for medicine pathway
Chemistry	0620	Essential for many STEM courses
Physics	0625	Required for engineering pathways
Combined Science	0653	Covers all three sciences in one qualification
Coordinated Science	0654	Double award covering all three sciences
Environmental Management	0680	Geography/Science crossover

Mathematics

Subject	Code	Notes
Mathematics	0580	Core maths — taken by almost all students
Additional Mathematics	0606	Advanced topics; excellent A-Level prep
International Mathematics	0607	Technology-enhanced; includes GDC use

Humanities

Subject	Code	Notes
Geography	0460	Physical and human geography
History	0470/0977	Various options by region
Economics	0455	Micro and macroeconomics intro
Global Perspectives	0457	Research, analysis, critical thinking
Sociology	0495	Society, culture, identity
Religious Studies	0490	Comparative religion and ethics

Business and Commerce

Subject	Code	Notes
Business Studies	0450	Marketing, finance, HR, operations
Accounting	0452	Financial accounting fundamentals
Enterprise	0454	Entrepreneurship focus

Creative and Technical

Subject	Code	Notes
Art & Design	0400	Coursework + exam components
Music	0410	Performance, composition, listening
Drama	0411	Practical and written components
Design & Technology	0445	Product design and manufacturing
Computer Science	0478	Programming and theory
Information & Communication Technology (ICT)	0417	Practical IT skills

Physical Education

Subject	Code	Notes
Physical Education	0413	Theory + practical assessment

How Many IGCSE Subjects Should You Take?

The Standard Recommendation

Most students take 7-10 IGCSE subjects. Here’s a breakdown:

• 5-6 subjects: The minimum for most universities. Adequate but limits options.
• 7-8 subjects: The sweet spot for most students. Provides breadth without overwhelm.
• 9-10 subjects: Common at selective schools. Demonstrates academic breadth.
• 11+ subjects: Possible but rarely necessary. Quality matters more than quantity.

What Universities Expect

UK universities: Generally look for 5+ IGCSEs at grades A*-C, with specific requirements varying by course. Top universities prefer 7-8 strong grades.

US universities: Appreciate breadth. 8-10 IGCSEs demonstrate a well-rounded profile.

Singapore/Hong Kong: Typically expect 7-9 subjects with strong grades.

Middle East universities: Usually require 5-7 IGCSEs at grade C or above.

Compulsory Subjects

While IGCSE itself doesn’t mandate specific subjects, most schools require:

• English (First or Second Language)
• Mathematics
• At least one Science
• At least one Humanities subject

Beyond these, your choices are flexible.

How to Choose Your IGCSE Subjects: A Strategic Guide

Step 1: Consider Your Strengths

Start with what you’re good at and enjoy. You’ll spend two years studying these subjects, so genuine interest matters.

Ask yourself:

• Which subjects do I consistently perform well in?
• Which topics do I find myself reading about outside of school?
• What type of work do I enjoy — essays, calculations, experiments, creative projects?

Step 2: Think About A-Level/IB Pathways

Your IGCSE choices should keep A-Level and IB options open. Here are common pathways:

Medicine/Dentistry: Biology + Chemistry + Maths (+ Physics recommended)

Engineering: Maths + Additional Maths + Physics + Chemistry

Law: English Literature + History + a language + Economics/Business

Business/Finance: Maths + Economics + Business Studies + English

Computer Science: Maths + Additional Maths + Computer Science + Physics

Arts/Design: Art & Design + English + a language + humanities

Step 3: Keep Options Open

If you’re unsure about your future career, choose a balanced combination:

• 1-2 Sciences
• Mathematics (+ Additional Maths if strong)
• English (Language and/or Literature)
• 1-2 Humanities
• 1 language (other than English)
• 1-2 subjects of personal interest

This breadth keeps virtually all A-Level pathways open.

Step 4: Be Realistic About Workload

Each subject requires significant time for homework, revision, and exam preparation. Taking too many subjects means spreading yourself thin.

Rule of thumb: Better to get 8 A*/A grades than 11 B/C grades.

Step 5: Consider the Exam Timetable

Some subjects have clashing exam times. Check the May/June timetable early to avoid scheduling conflicts.

Understanding IGCSE Grades

The Grading Scale

Cambridge IGCSE uses a letter-based system:

Grade	Description	Percentage Guide
A*	Exceptional	~90%+
A	Excellent	~80-89%
B	Very good	~70-79%
C	Good	~60-69%
D	Satisfactory	~50-59%
E	Adequate	~40-49%
F	Below average	~30-39%
G	Low	~20-29%
U	Ungraded	Below 20%

Note: Grade boundaries vary by paper and session. These percentages are approximate guides only.

Core vs Extended Grades

• Core curriculum: Grades C to G available
• Extended curriculum: Grades A* to E available

If you take the Extended paper but score very low, you may receive grade E rather than the Core grade equivalent.

Edexcel International GCSE Grading

Edexcel uses a numerical system: 9-1 (where 9 is highest). Approximate equivalence:

Cambridge	Edexcel
A*	9-8
A	7
B	6
C	5-4

The IGCSE Exam Timeline

Typical Two-Year Programme

Year 10 (First year):

• September-December: Introduction to all subjects
• January-March: Core content taught across all subjects
• April-June: Some schools enter students for select subjects early
• July-August: Summer revision begins

Year 11 (Second year):

• September-December: Advanced content and revision begins
• January-March: Mock examinations
• April: Final revision period
• May-June: Main examination session
• August: Results released

Key Dates for 2026

• Cambridge May/June 2026 exams: Late April to mid-June
• Results day: August 2026
• October/November 2026 session: For retakes or additional subjects

Cambridge IGCSE vs Edexcel IGCSE

Both are internationally recognised, but they differ:

Feature	Cambridge IGCSE	Edexcel International GCSE
Exam board	Cambridge Assessment	Pearson Edexcel
Subjects	70+	40+
Grading	A*-G	9-1
Global reach	Strongest in Asia, Middle East, Africa	Strongest in UK, growing internationally
Exam sessions	May/June + Oct/Nov	January + June
Past papers	Widely available	Widely available

Which is better? Neither is objectively superior. Both are accepted worldwide. Choose based on your school’s offering and the specific subject syllabus you prefer.

Subject-Specific Syllabus Highlights

IGCSE Mathematics (0580)

Core topics: Number, algebra, geometry, statistics Extended adds: Functions, calculus (basic differentiation), advanced probability, matrices, vectors

Top tip: The Extended paper requires strong algebraic manipulation skills. Start practising early.

IGCSE Biology (0610)

Key topics: Cell biology, organisms, genetics, ecology, human physiology Assessment: Paper 2 (multiple choice) + Paper 4 (theory) + Paper 6 (alternative to practical)

Top tip: Use diagrams extensively in your answers — marks are specifically awarded for labelled diagrams.

IGCSE English First Language (0500)

Components: Reading comprehension + directed writing + composition What examiners want: Precise analysis of writer’s craft, varied and accurate vocabulary, structured arguments

Top tip: Read widely. Students who read regularly produce better analytical and creative writing.

IGCSE Economics (0455)

Topics: Basic economic problem, allocation of resources, microeconomics, macroeconomics, economic development Skills tested: Data interpretation, diagram drawing, evaluation of policies

Top tip: Follow current economic news — examiners reward real-world examples.

Preparing for IGCSE Success

Start Strong in Year 10

• Organise notes from day one
• Don’t fall behind — catching up is harder than keeping pace
• Begin building a revision resource bank (flashcards, summary notes)

Use Past Papers Strategically

• Start practising past papers by the end of Year 10
• Use mark schemes to understand examiner expectations
• Time yourself under exam conditions
• Review examiner reports for common mistakes

Get Support When Needed

If you’re struggling with any subject, address it early. Options include:

• Speaking to your subject teacher
• Forming study groups with classmates
• Using online revision platforms
• Working with a personal tutor for targeted help

How Tutopiya Supports IGCSE Students

At Tutopiya, we provide expert one-on-one tutoring across all major IGCSE subjects. Our tutors are experienced with both Cambridge and Edexcel syllabuses and understand what examiners are looking for.

What we offer:

• Personalised tutoring in Mathematics, Sciences, English, Humanities, and more
• Expert tutors who know the IGCSE syllabus inside out
• Flexible online sessions that fit your schedule
• Past paper practice with detailed feedback
• Help choosing subjects and planning your IGCSE journey
• Support for both Core and Extended curricula

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