International curriculum

Cambridge IGCSE

Cambridge International (Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

Stage: Upper secondary (ISCED 3 entry stage)
Typical ages: 14 to 16
Course length: Typically two years
Exam sessions: June and November; results in August and January.
Grading: Eight grades, A* (highest) to G. Some syllabuses are also offered graded 9 (highest) to 1, in Cambridge's administrative zone 3 only.

Key facts

Over 70 subjects can be taken in any combination; assessment can include written, oral, coursework and practical work. (Source: Cambridge University Press & Assessment)
Cambridge says its standards are aligned with the GCSE taken in England. (Source: Cambridge University Press & Assessment)
First examined in June 1988. (Source: Cambridge University Press & Assessment)

How universities use it

CareerProof guidance

IGCSE results are usually not enough on their own for university entry; universities look at the qualification taken after it (such as AS & A Levels), and use IGCSE grades for specific requirements, for example a minimum grade in English or Mathematics.

Subjects and the careers they lead to

Each subject links to our global subject page, which shows the careers that rely on it. A selection of the A*-G syllabuses, with Cambridge's syllabus codes. The full list, including languages and 9-1 versions, is on Cambridge's subject page.

What students often take next

Applying in another country

The country where you apply decides how these results count. Official routes we have confirmed:

Uganda: Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB): equating of foreign results
Kenya: Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA): alignment and validation
South Africa: Universities South Africa (USAf) Matriculation Board: exemption certificates
Nigeria: Federal Ministry of Education
United Kingdom: Universities, through UCAS

Details for each country →

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