Cambridge Secondary Checkpoint is not graded like IGCSE. From May 2023 onwards, results are reported on a 0–50 scale with performance bands (Outstanding, High, Good, Aspiring, Basic, Unclassified). There are no A*–G or 9–1 grade boundaries; instead, Cambridge uses statistical methods and expert judgement so standards stay fair across sessions.
Cambridge Secondary Checkpoint Reporting Scale 2026
The 0–50 scale and performance bands
0–50 scale
Cambridge Lower Secondary Checkpoint (Mathematics, Science, English, English as a Second Language) reports subject-level scores on a 0–50 scale. These are standardised scores, not raw marks. Raw marks are also reported at test, strand, and question level for diagnostic use.
Performance Bands for Checkpoint
How achievement is described on the Statement of Achievement
| Performance band | Indicative 0–50 score range | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Outstanding | 45–50 | Exceptional performance |
| High | 38–44 | Strong performance |
| Good | 30–37 | Good achievement |
| Aspiring | 22–29 | Developing towards expectations |
| Basic | 14–21 | Limited achievement |
| Unclassified | 0–13 | Below minimum standard |
No fixed grade boundaries
Checkpoint does not publish numerical “grade boundaries” like IGCSE. The score ranges above are indicative; exact band thresholds are determined using Rasch analysis and difficulty adjustment so that scores are comparable across different test forms and sessions. Your centre receives subject scores and bands on the Statement of Achievement.
How Cambridge Converts Raw Marks to the 0–50 Scale
Rasch standardisation and fairness
Standardised scores
Raw marks are converted to the 0–50 scale using Rasch analysis, with adjustments for test difficulty. The subject score is therefore not a simple average of strand or question scores—it reflects standardised achievement. Cambridge uses a mix of statistical evidence and expert judgement, consistent with their approach for IGCSE and A Level, so that learners are not disadvantaged if a session is harder than in previous years.
Official Cambridge Resources
Marking, grading, and Checkpoint reporting
Cambridge International Marking and Grading Guide
Official guide to how Cambridge marks and grades exams (applies to Checkpoint and other programmes).
Download Official PDFFor Checkpoint-specific reporting and 2026 changes, see Cambridge Checkpoint changes and Checkpoint results reports.
Prepare for Checkpoint and Beyond with Tutopiya
Get support for Cambridge Lower Secondary and a smooth path to IGCSE.