IGCSE Administrative Zones Explained: Find Your Correct Timetable
Cambridge IGCSE uses administrative zones to organise exam timetables. Using the wrong zone can mean missing an exam. Here’s what each zone means and how to find yours.
Why Zones Exist
Zones group schools by geography and timezone so that:
- Exams run at suitable local times
- Exam security is maintained
- Different versions of papers can be used across regions
Each zone has its own timetable. Times and sometimes dates can differ between zones.
The Six Zones
| Zone | Typical Regions |
|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Americas, some Caribbean |
| Zone 2 | North America (excl. USA), South America, Caribbean |
| Zone 3 | UK, Europe, Middle East (e.g. UAE) |
| Zone 4 | Africa, some Middle East |
| Zone 5 | Asia (e.g. Singapore, Malaysia) |
| Zone 6 | Asia-Pacific (e.g. Singapore, Malaysia, Australia) |
Note: The UK has a separate timetable even though it is part of Zone 3. European centres use the Zone 3 timetable (or UK where applicable).
Main Markets
| Region | Typical Zone |
|---|---|
| UAE, Dubai | Zone 3 |
| Singapore | Zone 5 or Zone 6 |
| Malaysia | Zone 5 or Zone 6 |
| Europe | Zone 3 |
| UK | UK timetable (Zone 3) |
Important: Your centre determines your zone. Always confirm with your school or exam centre.
How to Find Your Zone
- Ask your school – The exams officer knows your centre’s zone
- Cambridge admin zone tool – cambridgeinternational.org/adminzone
- British Council – If you’re a private candidate, they will tell you
Why It Matters
Cambridge cannot accept responsibility if you use the wrong timetable and miss an exam. Always use the timetable for your zone.
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