IGCSE
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THE INTERNATIONAL GENERAL CERTIFICATE OF SECONDARY EDUCATION (IGCSE)®️ AT ICS PARIS
IGCSE is a globally recognized qualification for students aged 14 to 16 years. Developed by the University of Cambridge International Examinations, the IGCSE is designed to prepare students for further academic study, such as A Levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB). Students follow a two-year programme that leads to externally set, marked, and accredited examinations from the University of Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel.
At ICS Paris, the IGCSE exams are optional for students in Grade 9 and Grade 10. This flexibility is especially beneficial for expatriate families and those relocating frequently, as it provides a standardized examination certificate recognized worldwide, easing transitions to new schools.
IGCSE EXAMINATION
The IGCSE exam offers an excellent foundation for students' later studies in the IB Diploma Programme as a rigorous two-year curriculum that provides a recognised qualification for university admissions. It is the international version of the GCSE exam taken by students in the UK at the end of Year 11 (equivalent to Grade 10). The only examination board currently offering IGCSE subjects is Edexcel, the UK's largest examination body founded more than 150 years ago as part of the University of London.
After successfully passing the examinations, students will be awarded the globally-recognised IGCSE certificates in each subject, ready for the next stage of education. IGCSEs are graded from 9 (high) to 1 (low) by Edexcel. Many universities and employers regard a score of 6 as a strong passing grade. All students take English, Mathematics, and either a Double- or Triple-Award Science as compulsory subjects.
IGCSE at ICS Paris
There are two pathways for students interested in taking the IGCSE examination at ICS Paris:
Full IGCSE certificate
To receive a full IGCSE certificate, students must take a minimum of 4-5 exams in subjects of their choice.
Subject-Based Certification
In this track, students sit for selected exams (at least one) in subject(s) they plan to pursue in the IB Diploma Programme.
IGCSE Subject Choices
- English B
- French
- 2nd Language English
- Mathematics A - Higher and Foundation
- Further Pure Maths
- Economics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
* These are the most popular subjects, but the list is not exhaustive. There are more than 70 subjects in the IGCSE's which can be selected as an option.
Colleges and universities in Europe and Asia often give significant weight to students who achieve strong IGCSE scores, followed by good results in the IB Diploma Programme.
Advantages of IGCSE at ICS Paris
Choosing the IGCSE at ICS Paris comes with numerous advantages, particularly for expatriate families and students who frequently relocate. The IGCSE’s international recognition provides a consistent and transferable qualification that can ease the transition between schools in different countries. This allows students to tailor their educational pathways to suit their individual needs and goals.
The IGCSE’s rigorous curriculum and external examinations ensure a high standard of education, preparing students for the challenges of further academic pursuits. Our students’ success in these exams is a testament to the quality of education at ICS Paris.
By providing both the IB MYP and the option to take IGCSE exams, ICS Paris supports a diverse range of academic interests and aspirations, fostering an environment where students can achieve their fullest potential.
FAQ
- Which exam board do our students pass through for the IGCSE's?
- Is the IGCSE exam mandatory for all students?
- How high do my IGCSE scores need to be for college or university admission?
- Should I take the IGCSE in Grade 9 or Grade 10? What’s the difference?