IGCSE subject combinations for medicine are searched by students aiming for medical school. Universities typically expect strong grades in sciences and often English; choosing the right IGCSEs helps you meet entry requirements and prepares you for A-Level or IB and beyond.

Subjects Usually Expected for Medicine

• Biology – Almost always required or strongly preferred.
• Chemistry – Almost always required or strongly preferred.
• Physics – Required or preferred by many medical schools.
• Mathematics – Often required (e.g. IGCSE Mathematics 0580 or equivalent).
• English – First language or second language to a good grade; required for communication and entry.

Some schools also value Additional Mathematics or a second language; check each university’s website for exact requirements.

Strong IGCSE Combinations for Medicine

A typical strong combination includes:

• Core sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics (often at least two at IGCSE, then continued at A-Level/IB).
• Maths: IGCSE Mathematics; some students take Additional Mathematics.
• English: First Language or English as a Second Language to a high grade.
• Other: A humanity or language can support a balanced profile.

Always confirm with the specific medical schools and countries you are targeting, as requirements differ. Some universities also require a minimum grade (e.g. A or B) in each science and in Maths, so check their admissions pages.

Why IGCSE Choices Matter for Medicine

Medical degrees are highly competitive. Strong IGCSE grades in the right subjects show that you have a solid foundation in science and can handle the workload. Many schools use IGCSE (and A-Level or IB) grades to shortlist for interview or to set conditional offers. Choosing the right IGCSEs and aiming for high grades from the start puts you in a stronger position when you apply.

What If Your School Doesn’t Offer All Three Sciences?

If your school offers Combined Science or only two separate sciences, check whether your target medical schools accept that. Some will accept Combined Science plus one other science; others prefer three separate sciences. If you are unsure, contact the universities or seek advice from your school’s careers or higher education adviser. You may be able to take an extra science as a private candidate or through distance learning, but this needs careful planning.

Tutopiya Resources and Free Trial

Tutopiya’s IGCSE tutors can help you plan subject choices, achieve strong grades in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Maths, and prepare for A-Level or IB medicine prerequisites.

Book a free trial with a science or maths tutor, or explore Tutopiya’s learning portal for free resources and subject guidance.