Short answer

IGCSE is the International General Certificate of Secondary Education. It is an international qualification for students aged 14–16, offered by Cambridge Assessment International Education and Pearson Edexcel. It prepares students for A-Level, IB, or other pre-university courses.

Key facts

• Who offers it: Cambridge IGCSE and Pearson Edexcel International GCSE
• Age: Usually taken at 14–16 or 15–16
• Level: Secondary education exit qualification
• Subjects: 70+ subjects across languages, humanities, sciences, maths, and creative arts
• Recognition: Accepted by universities and employers worldwide

How it works

Students typically take 7–10 subjects. Core subjects often include English, Maths, and at least one science. Grades are from A* to G (with U for ungraded). IGCSE is designed for international schools and students who want a globally recognised qualification.

What comes after IGCSE?

After IGCSE, students typically move to A-Level, IB Diploma, or other pre-university programmes before applying to university.

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