Introduction to the IGCSE exam

Thinking about studying abroad?
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is a globally recognized qualification that can strengthen your university application—especially if you’re aiming for a UK-based or international university program.

In this guide, we break down what the IGCSE is, why it matters, and how to prepare for it. Whether you're just starting to explore your study abroad options or need help choosing your exam subjects, you're in the right place.

Keep in mind while checking the Cambridge IGCSE website Saudi Arabia is Zone 3. Some courses require your attendance which is why we encourage students planning to take IGCSE to enroll in schools offering their desierd course.

What is IGCSE?

The IGCSE is an international version of the UK’s GCSE, designed for students aged 14–16. It’s used by schools in more than 150 countries and accepted by many universities worldwide.

While not always required—especially for universities in the US—IGCSEs can improve your chances of getting into competitive programs.

Take the IGCSE if:

You plan to apply to a UK university or UK-based foundation/pathway program
You’re interested in entering an International Baccalaureate (IB) program
You want a globally respected credential in key academic subjects

If you're applying to a US-based university, IGCSEs are usually not required, but they can still enhance your application.

How are IGCSE graded?

There are two grading systems:

Letter-based: A* to G (older format)
Number-based: 9 to 1 (newer and more common)

What Boards offer IGCSE exams?

There are three main exam boards:

Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE)
- Most popular, exam-focused
- Wide subject range and prep materials
Pearson Edexcel
- Emphasizes both coursework and exams
- Strong online and print learning resources
Oxford AQA
- Newest provider
- Combines assessments and coursework

Ask your school or counselor which board is best for your goals. Our website focuses on Cambridge Assesment International education (CAIE)

How do I choose the right IGCSE exam?

Most universities require at least five IGCSE subjects, often including:

English
Math
Science

Some students take 7–8 subjects to boost their qualifications, especially if they’re targeting selective programs.

What Subjects Can I Take?

You can choose from 70+ subjects, including:

Biology, Chemistry, Physics
English Literature and Language
Mathematics
Business Studies
History, Geography
Foreign Languages

Choose subjects that align with your academic strengths and future major.

What are the IGCSE subjects?

Here Is a list of the 74 subjects offered

Accounting – 0452
Afrikaans - Second Language – 0548
Agriculture – 0600
Arabic - First Language – 0508
Arabic - Foreign Language – 0544
Bahasa Indonesia – 0538
Biology – 0610
Business – 0264
Business Studies – 0450
Chemistry – 0620
Chinese - First Language – 0509
Chinese - Second Language – 0523
Chinese (Mandarin) - Foreign Language – 0547
Computer Science – 0478
Design & Technology – 0445
Drama – 0411
Economics – 0455
English (as an Additional Language) – 0472
English - First Language – 0500
English - First Language (US) – 0524 Available in USA only
English – Literature (US) – 0427 Available in USA only
English – Literature in English – 0475
English (Core) as a Second Language (Egypt) – 0465 Available in Eygpt only
English as a Second Language (Count-in Speaking) – 0511
English as a Second Language (Speaking Endorsement) – 0510
Enterprise – 0454
Environmental Management – 0680
Food & Nutrition – 0648
French - First Language – 0501
French - Foreign Language – 0520
Geography – 0460
German - First Language – 0505
German - Foreign Language – 0525
Global Perspectives – 0457
Hindi as a Second Language – 0549
History – 0470
History - American (US) – 0409 <--- Available in USA only
Information and Communication Technology – 0417
IsiZulu as a Second Language – 0531
Islamiyat – 0493
Italian - Foreign Language – 0535
Japanese - Foreign Language – 0716
Latin – 0480
Malay - First Language – 0696
Malay - Foreign Language – 0546
Marine Science – 0697
Mathematics – 0580
Mathematics - Additional – 0606
Mathematics - International – 0607
Mathematics (US) – 0444 Available in USA only
Pakistan Studies – 0448
Physical Education – 0413
Physical Science – 0652
Physics – 0625
Portuguese - First Language – 0504
Psychology – 0266
Religious Studies – 0490
Sanskrit – 0499
Science - Combined – 0653
Sciences - Co-ordinated (Double) – 0654
Setswana - First Language – 0698
Sociology – 0495
Spanish - First Language – 0502
Spanish - Foreign Language – 0530
Spanish - Literature – 0488
Spanish - Literature in Spanish – 0474
Statistics – 0479
Swahili – 0262
Thai - First Language – 0518
Travel & Tourism – 0471
Turkish - First Language – 0513
Urdu as a Second Language – 0539
Vietnamese - First Language – 0695
World Literature – 0408

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