GCSEs and iGCSEs are studied by all students in Year 10 and 11, and are comprised of a combination of ‘core’ subjects, such as English, Maths and Science, and ‘periphery’ subjects, like Geography, History and Art. Internationally respected, they are likely the first major exams taken by students, and as a result, a cause for stress in parents and students alike.

 

As a parent, you might be confused about the difference, and ultimately, be wondering which is better for your child. The purpose of this insight therefore is to explain some of the key differences between iGCSEs and GCSEs, including location, coursework vs exams, and grading. If you would like to learn more about how to help your child succeed in their GCSEs, please contact us.

Where are they available?

Most independent schools in the UK only offer GCSEs, studied over the course of two years in Year 10 and Year 11. Whilst some UK schools also offer iGCSEs, this is primarily to international students.

 

Contrarily, private international schools outside the UK can only offer iGCSEs, sat at the same time as the GCSE exams.

 

If you have any questions about relocating to the UK, Think Tutors provide international tuition, legal guardianship, and are practiced at assisting families with their move to the UK, minimising interruptions to education.

Coursework vs Exams

Although subject choices are the same for both GCSE and iGCSE, the method of assessment is largely different. GCSEs contain large coursework components, with students being challenged to write

 

On the other hand, iGCSE subjects on the whole do not rely on coursework as a method for testing. Pupils are examined either on their performance in end-of-year exams, which are comparatively more important.

 

Depending on your child’s learning style, this could be an important distinction. If you would like to learn more about how your child can learn more effectively, please do get in touch for an assessment.

Grading

Finally, for students undertaking GCSEs since 2017, the traditional A*-G grading system was replaced by a numerical 1-9 scale, with the highest grade, 9, as the equivalent of an A**. Although there was confusion when this change was announced, it has since been accepted by students and teachers alike.

 

CIE iGCSEs, on the other hand, are graded by the traditional A*-G system, in which the best students achieve A*s. Whereas, Edexcel and Oxford AQA offer 1-9 grading in line with the UK system.

Contact Think Tutors

Think Tutors’ network of professional tutors and mentors are practiced with the requirements of both GCSE and iGCSE, and are specialists at helping your child achieve their full potential. If you are relocating, or simply curious about how tuition can help get the best out of your child, please contact us. We also offer A-Level, ISEB Pre-Test, Mentoring, and  University level tuition.