IGCSE English: First Language vs Second Language — Which Should You Take?

Cambridge IGCSE First Language English and English as a Second Language are different qualifications for different types of learners. Choosing the right one affects your papers, preparation, and university recognition. This guide compares them clearly.

Quick comparison

Aspect	First Language English (0500)	English as a Second Language (0510 / 0511)
Who it’s for	Learners who use English as their first/main language	Learners who use English as an additional language
Level	Native/near-native reading and writing	Intermediate to upper-intermediate
Papers	Reading + Writing (or Coursework); optional Speaking	Reading/Writing; Listening; optional Speaking
Calculator	No	No
Difficulty	Higher: complex texts, formal writing, inference	More accessible: clearer tasks, vocabulary support
Popularity	Very high in English-medium schools	Very high for EAL and international students

Papers you need

• First Language (0500): Paper 1 (Reading) plus Paper 2 (Writing) or Paper 3 (Coursework). No calculator.
• Second Language (0510/0511): Core or Extended. Typically: Reading/Writing (Paper 1 or 2), Listening (Paper 3 or 4), and optionally Speaking (Component 5). No calculator.

Your school will confirm which variant (e.g. 0510 vs 0511) and whether you do Core or Extended.

Which is harder or easier?

• First Language (0500) is harder: it expects strong comprehension, inference, and formal writing similar to a first-language user.
• Second Language (0510/0511) is designed to be more accessible for EAL learners, with clearer tasks and support, though still demanding at Extended level.

You should choose based on how you use English (first vs additional language), not only on “easier” or “harder.”

Which is more popular?

Both are very popular globally. 0500 is common in international schools where English is the main language of instruction. 0510/0511 is common where many students are EAL. Universities accept both; some courses may specify “First Language” or “Second Language” — check entry requirements.

How Tutopiya supports IGCSE English students

Tutopiya specialises in IGCSE and supports both First Language and Second Language English. Our resources platform includes 200,000+ past papers, AI practice, and revision notes developed over 8+ years. Our tutors include ex- and current international-school teachers and IGCSE board examiners (subject-dependent). You can use the platform for past papers and revision, and book a free trial with an IGCSE English tutor for reading, writing, listening, or speaking.

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This guide is for information only. Confirm which English syllabus and tier your school uses with Cambridge International.