IGCSE mock exams are practice exams that schools run before the real series. This guide explains how to prepare for IGCSE mock exams and use them effectively for Singapore students taking Cambridge or Edexcel IGCSE.

What are IGCSE mock exams?

Mocks are trial exams that follow the real IGCSE papers in format and timing. They help you and your school see how ready you are and which topics need more work. Treat them seriously; the results and feedback are valuable for planning revision. Schools in Singapore often run mocks a few months before the real series so students have time to improve. Use the experience to practise exam conditions (timing, no notes, quiet room) so the real exams feel familiar.

How to prepare for IGCSE mocks

Revise the full syllabus using your notes, textbook, and formula sheets (e.g. IGCSE physics formula sheet, IGCSE chemistry formula sheet). Use IGCSE past papers under timed conditions so you get used to the pace and question styles. Focus on weak areas and exam technique (e.g. how many marks per point, how to structure longer answers). Get enough sleep before each mock and know the exam day rules (what you can bring, when to arrive). For more on past papers, see our IGCSE past papers guide; for resources, see our IGCSE resources guide.

After the mocks

Use your mock results to target revision: work on low-scoring topics and question types first. Combine with IGCSE resources and past papers so you keep practising under timed conditions. Consider IGCSE tuition for targeted help before the real exams if you need support with specific subjects or exam technique. Tutopiya offers one-to-one IGCSE tuition in Singapore; book a free trial to see how it works.

After the mocks: turning feedback into a revision plan

Review your mock scripts and mark schemes (if your school returns them) so you see exactly where you lost marks. List your weakest topics and weakest question types (e.g. long-answer physics, essay in history) and prioritise these in your revision. Set a schedule for the weeks until the real exam: so many hours per subject per week, with at least one full past paper per subject under timed conditions. Use IGCSE resources (past papers, formula sheets, revision guides) and, if needed, IGCSE tuition to work on weak areas. Singapore students who treat mocks as a diagnostic tool (rather than just a grade) often make the biggest improvement before the real series.

Next steps

Use our IGCSE past papers and IGCSE resources guides. For one-to-one help book a free trial with Tutopiya IGCSE tuition. Use the Tutopiya learning platform and Tutopiya login.