IGCSE Past Paper: How to Use One Effectively for Revision

Using one IGCSE past paper well can be more valuable than rushing through several. This guide shows how to choose, do, and review a past paper IGCSE so it actually improves your grade.

Before you do an IGCSE past paper

• Pick the right paper – same syllabus and tier (Core/Extended or Foundation/Higher) as your exam.
• Block the real exam time – no phone, no breaks (unless your exam has a break).
• Have the right equipment – calculator if allowed, ruler, pen, etc.
• Print it if you can – practising on paper is closer to the real exam than on screen.

While doing the past paper

• Stick to the time limit – when time’s up, stop and mark what you did.
• Show your working – especially in Maths and Sciences; method marks can save you.
• If you’re stuck – leave a gap, write a quick note, and come back at the end if you have time.
• Don’t look at answers until you’ve finished the full timed attempt.

After the IGCSE past paper – marking and review

1. Mark strictly with the official mark scheme (from the same exam board and series).
2. Write down every question number you got wrong or only partly right.
3. For each of those – find the topic in your notes, fix the misunderstanding, and do a similar question if you have one.
4. Note patterns – e.g. “I keep making rounding errors” or “I’m weak on organic chemistry” – and target those next.

One igcse past paper used like this is worth more than several done quickly and never reviewed.

Where to get IGCSE past papers

Tutopiya has 8 years of igcse past papers (Cambridge and Edexcel), including 2025, all downloadable and printable:

• Cambridge IGCSE past papers (Maths, Sciences, English, and more)
• Edexcel IGCSE past papers (Maths, Sciences, English, Business, Economics)

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Browse Tutopiya’s past paper bank or book a free trial with an IGCSE tutor.