Benefits
Do you want qualifications that can open doors around the world?
IGCSEs are the world’s most popular international qualifications for 14 to 16-year-olds. They are your gateway to higher education or professional studies in your home country or overseas. They can help you:
- get a place at college or university at home or abroad
- find better career opportunities
- pass the language tests for emigrating or studying in another country*
- develop skills that help you lead a more exciting and successful life
The British Council helps more than two million people take international exams every year. We can offer you support and guidance – from choosing subjects to exam registration.
*For example, achieving a Grade C in IGCSE English is often enough to satisfy the language requirements for some universities in English-speaking nations.
Find out how to register for IGCSEs
What to expect
The British Council makes the whole exam process more straightforward. After all, we help two million people take international exams every year. Here are some things you should know about IGCSEs.
The course
IGCSEs/International GCSEs usually take two years to complete. Assessment ranges from written to oral tests, as well as practical exams and coursework.
Choosing subjects
You can choose from more than 70 different subjects – from maths to English. Available subjects vary depending on your school, country and chosen exam board.
Exam boards
Exams are offered through main exam boards including Cambridge International, Pearson Edexcel and Oxford AQA.
Please note: if you take an exam with CIE, you will be studying for an IGCSE.
Ability range
The IGCSE/International GCSE core curriculum is suitable for students who expect to achieve grades C to G. An extended curriculum offers more challenging content for students aiming for grades A* to C.
Grades and marking
Your results are assessed using internationally-recognised A* to G grades. The exam papers are all marked centrally in the UK.
When will you get your results?
Results will be posted to you several weeks/ two months after your final exam submission.
Find out more about getting your results.
What next?
An IGCSE/International GCSE can be your first step toward further education, such A- and AS-levels or even university placements.
Subjects
IGCSEs/International GCSEs give you the freedom to choose a course of study that is right for you. Your chosen subjects should fit with your career goals or plans for further education. To find out which subjects are available in your country, check the list below:
Cambridge International Examinations IGCSE subjects
Cambridge International Examinations O Level subjects
How to register
The British Council can help you with every step of the registration process. We will handle all of the paperwork, make sure you complete the right forms – and let you know about any deadlines or registration fees.