What are International GCSEs?

The International GCSE is the world’s most popular international qualification that is equivalent to a GCSE. It is recognised by leading universities and employers worldwide and is an international passport to development and achievement. They can help you: win a place at college/university at home or abroad succeed with your career path satisfy the language requirements for some universities in English-speaking nations develop day to day skills

How many IGCSE subjects should I take and what subjects should I choose?

If you are wondering how many GCSEs to study, it is all down to your circumstances. At school, you would typically study approximately nine subjects. If you are looking to go onto a college course afterwards, they would usually state how many they require from you and the grades. We have some learners take one subject and others take a whole range of subjects! Do you require help choosing your subject? Our student advisors can offer useful advice including which courses complement each other well. All you need to consider is which course you are most likely to find enjoyable. If you have a passion for a specific course, you are more likely to excel and attain the grades you desire.

Maths, English and Science are the core subjects everyone must take at GCSE in England. English Language is compulsory in all schools, and so is English Literature in the majority of schools. We offer Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate qualifications. Otherwise, you may want to combine all three and take the Combined Science GCSE which provides two qualifications. The International GCSE is a great stepping stone. It helps learners who want to keep their future study/career options open. It also helps learners who know exactly what they want to do and progress onto A Levels.

Who are Online GCSEs for?

GCSE Online courses with Learn Now Distance Learning College are flexible and therefore they can be for anyone! If you are considering college, GCSEs will help you when looking at the entry requirements. Employers also value GCSEs as they show a good level of education, especially English and Maths. These qualifications are also great if you are looking to move onto A Levels. They provide a good introduction to the subject you will continue to study at A Level. Sometimes you will even study this qualification as a hobby especially if it is a subject, you find interesting!

What grades do I need to be accepted onto one of these courses?

There is no previous entry requirements for this course, however learners are expected to have a reasonable standard of literacy and numeracy skills.

What is it like to study an Online GCSE?

With our courses, we provide full tutor support meaning: You can message your tutor as many times as you need to with any queries you may have regarding your course. Your tutor will monitor your progress throughout the course. If you have a target grade, your tutor will provide you with advice on how to achieve this. Your tutor will mark assignments which assess you at each stage of the course and provide you with full feedback. Provide you with practise examinations papers in the lead up to your GCSE examinations.

Can I study an IGCSE from outside of the UK?

Yes of course you can! We have learners situated all over the world studying IGCSEs with our college. We have the largest range of subjects to choose from, and we offer both Edexcel and CIE awarding bodies. You really are spoilt for choice.

Are IGCSEs harder than GCSEs?

No, both are considered equivalent in ability.

How long do IGCSEs take?

This is entirely up to you. If you were attending a face-to-face school or college, your course would probably take two years to complete. However, through home study, you can work at your own pace and complete much sooner.

Online IGCSE Courses

Study internationally recognised IGCSE courses online with flexible learning, expert tutor support and the freedom to study from anywhere that suits you. Learners have the option to choose from Cambridge International and Pearson Edexcel subjects which are designed for home education, adult learners and students worldwide.

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What are IGCSEs?

IGCSE stands for International General Certificate of Secondary Education and are Level 2 qualifications taken around the world. They are equivalent to GCSEs (UK version) and mainly taught in international schools, private schools and through online providers.

Who are online IGCSEs for?

Many learners will benefit from IGCSE courses with many subjects available, and we find they are particularly suited to:

Home educators:

Learners can be home schooled for several reasons. When a conventional school or college isn’t a viable options, online courses give learners the opportunity to still gain their qualifications in a relaxed environment.

Adults:

If you are unable to complete your qualifications whilst at school, distance learning gives you a second chance as you can sit your exams at any age.

School students:

Falling behind at school doesn’t mean you have to accept the fact that you are not going to reach your full potential. Topping up with online studies can improve your grades dramatically.

International students:

When access to education is difficult because of budgets or locations, online learning can provide all the help you need to gain those valuable qualifications.

Students retaking GCSEs:

We don’t always achieve the grades we were hoping for but it’s never too late to go back and try again, with all the support you need.

You may find our article ‘What Subjects Can I Study at IGCSE’ useful to read, if unsure which options to choose.

Available IGCSE Courses

Below is a list of IGCSE subjects available through Cambridge International Education (CIE) and Pearson Edexcel.

Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge Examination Board
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge Examination Board
Cambridge & Edexcel Examination Boards
Cambridge Examination Board

Why Study IGCSEs Online?

There are many reasons why learners study these courses online, with the top reason being flexibility. You can fit these qualifications around your everyday life and still feel confident that you have a professional tutor on hand to help you with any questions you might have.

There is also a whole Admin Department providing back up with queries such as finding an exam centre for you, references and international exam dates.

In a conventional school or college, your course would typically run for two years but with the flexibility of online learning, you are able to fast-track and complete in a time that suits you, with a choice of locations. Being online, you can study from anywhere.

Tutor Support

Tutors are available to answer any questions you have and provide academic guidance throughout your online course. All tutors are experienced and will mark assignments or mock exam papers, providing you with graded feedback. Tutors dedicate their time to helping students with assignments and rely on the back up of Tutor Support who are ready and waiting to help you with any admin queries you may have. We provide the full package.

How Online IGCSE Courses Work

Learn now offer IGCSEs to learners and international schools all over the world. We provide students with a tailored learning experience where they can access their courses and study materials anytime, anywhere.

As there is no coursework involved, studying by distance learning couldn’t be any easier. You will study your course from home and then sit your exams at an examination centre. These are available throughout the UK and internationally. With unlimited tutor support available, there is no reason for you not to succeed.

Enrol Online

Choose from over 20 subjects across two awarding bodies and enrol any time of the year. There are no fixed dates for starting your course, giving you the flexibility to start at a time that suits you.

Our courses will work around your schedule. Access in-depth course materials, eBooks, online resources and assignments 24/7. Decide if you want to study full-time or part-time and even choose fast-track if you are on a tight timescale, at no extra cost.

How the IGCSEs work

Learn Now offer IGCSEs to learners and international schools all over the world. We provide students with a tailored learning experience where they can access their courses and study materials anytime, anywhere.

Exams & Assessment

IGCSE Examination centres are available worldwide. Learners therefore will not have to travel to the UK to take exams. Please bear in mind that it is likely you will have more than one exam paper to sit, so you may have to travel to your exam location on different days.

Your IGCSE qualifications receive world-wide acceptance with Universities and Colleges. They will enable you to progress onto A’ Levels, IB and Level 3 qualifications. Employers will also value your academic achievements, opening more doors to your prospects. Our Tutor Support department can provide help and guidance when you are ready to book your exams.

Find an Exam Centre

You would normally book your exams approximately 6 months prior to the exam series you want to attend. This would help you avoid late deadline fees and also secure a place. As an example, if you are sitting exams in June, it would be ideal to have them booked by January.

Cambridge exams run in the May/June and October/November series. Some administrative zones also offer a February/March series.

Pearson Edexcel exams are available in the May/June and November series.

Exam Centre Exam Dates

India IGCSE

The Association of Indian Universities, the organisation that awards equivalence to foreign degrees in India, has granted equivalence to International A Levels, International GCSE and O Levels.

This ensures smooth progression for learners who choose to study at universities in India.

Malaysia IGCSE

State and private Malaysian universities are familiar with International GCSEs and A Levels. Learners routinely gain admission to Malaysian private universities and, in general, can also apply to state universities.

For admission to state universities, learners may also be required to pass SPM examinations (the local equivalent to International GCSE) prior to taking International AS & A Levels.

Singapore IGCSE

International GCSEs and International A Levels are widely accepted in Singapore. As the application process to public universities is highly competitive, learners generally need at least four very strong International A Level grades in order to be considered for a place.

Europe IGCSE

We also offer many these qualifications to learners in Spain, France, Germany, Italy and the rest of the world!

Please always check directly with your target institution and/or study destination for up-to-date admission requirements and policies for local and international students.

Cambridge or Edexcel for IGCSEs?

Learn Now offer our International GCSEs to learners and colleges all over the world including the UK.

Both awarding bodies of IGCSE subjects are recognised in a global capacity with Cambridge International being very popular in Asia and Africa.

The core subjects, such as English, Maths and Science are offered by both awarding bodies and although Pearson and Cambridge have many more subjects available, Cambridge offers broader subject choices, especially in languages.

Pearson Edexcel IGCSEs are very similar to their UK IGCSEs, however, Cambridge offers greater flexibility with teaching styles.

Whilst Pearson appears to have more structured and guided examination questions, Cambridge questions are more open ended and require more thought.

International GCSE is an internationally recognised qualification equivalent to GCSE and O Levels. They are equivalent grade for grade with assessment taking place at the end of the course.

Being an international student will not make any difference to your studies with our college. ALL students will receive:

access to the online portal
unlimited Tutor support
guidance and mentoring from our committed team

Should I Study Cambridge or Edexcel IGCSE?

This is a question commonly asked and there isn’t one simple answer as one qualification is not better than the other. As both awarding bodies offer top class qualifications, you cannot go wrong whichever one you choose.

IGCSEs are international qualifications, so it would probably be wise to check if Cambridge or Edexcel are available in the country where you wish to complete your exams. Whilst there are many exam centres for either, sometimes only one awarding body is available in a specific area.

Another consideration is whether the subject you wish to take is available by either exam board. For example, Cambridge are able to offer Japanese as a foreign language, however Pearson Edexcel cannot.

Who are Cambridge International Education?

Cambridge is an awarding body providing international qualifications which are available throughout the world in over 160 countries. Students would normally start studying their qualifications at age 14 and complete over a two-year period. If completing independently, say online, then they can complete much sooner. IGCSEs are also available to older learners.

Click here to find a Cambridge Exam centre.

Please note that Cambridge do not guarantee that all schools offer exams to private candidates and other schools offer exams but are not on the list.

Who are Pearson Edexcel?

Pearson is a well-respected education company with global connections and Edexcel offers academic and vocational qualifications in the UK. These two come together to offer UK and international qualifications in over 100 countries. To view international exam centres for Pearson Edexcel, please click here. Your exam administrator may be able to provide further options.

Cambridge IGCSEs may be suited to learners who:

Prefer the traditional route of academic courses.
Are planning to continue through the Cambridge pathway of international qualifications.
May be already studying the Cambridge curriculum at an international school.

Pearson Edexcel International GCSEs may be suited to learners who:

Are wishing to progress to Pearson Edexcel International A Levels.
Prefer the 9-1 grading scale.
Want to use the same awarding body between GCSE and A Levels.

If you are unsure which awarding body is most appropriate for your specific goals and progression plans, contact our Student Advisors who are ready to help you.

Accreditation & Recognition of Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel

Both qualifications are recognised globally and are respected by top universities worldwide. You cannot go wrong, whichever qualification you decide to study and should have confidence in your choices, which will inevitably come down to personal preferences and learning needs.

Cambridge vs Pearson Edexcel IGCSEs

Both awarding bodies are internationally recognised Level 2 qualifications accepted by universities and employers. The main differences lie in the awarding organisation, grading systems for some qualifications, assessment approach and progression pathways. Neither qualification is “better”—the right choice depends on your preferred course, plans for future study and your own personal learning choices.

Feature	Cambridge IGCSE	Pearson Edexcel International GCSE
Awarding Organisation	Cambridge International Education	Pearson Edexcel
Recognition	Widely recognised by universities and employers worldwide	Widely recognised by universities and employers worldwide
Qualification Level	Level 2 qualification	Level 2 qualification
Typical Age	Usually 14–16 years but open to mature learners	Usually 14–16 years but open to mature learners
Subjects Available	Extensive range of subjects	Broad range of subjects
Assessment Style	Mainly final examinations, no coursework with online learning	Mostly final examinations, no coursework with online learning
Course Structure	Linear (assessment at the end of the course)	Generally linear, depending on the subject specification
Grading	Grades A–G or 9–1*, depending on the qualification	Grades 9–1
Availability	Offered in over 160 countries	Offered internationally in many countries, including the UK
Progression	A Levels, International A Levels, vocational qualifications and university	A Levels, International A Levels, vocational qualifications and university

Useful IGCSE Links

Results Day 2025

What to do after your results?

Go to GCSE Reform 2025:

What Online IGCSE & A Level Students Need to Know

Is GCSE Maths right for me?

With all the different Maths options available, you may be wondering how to choose the right subject.

GCSE Online Courses through Home Education

GCSE Online Courses through Home Education – What requirements must you adhere to if you are home schooling your child?

What subjects can I study at IGCSE?

Choosing your subjects for IGCSEs can be a big decision, right? You want to pick suitable options to give yourself the best chance of success

IGCSE vs GCSE – What are the differences?

Whether you are thinking about GCSEs or IGCSEs, getting the right grades takes hard work and determination.

Progression after IGCSEs

Most learners complete their course as a progression route to their chosen career pathway. The main intention is that they will lead gently onto A Levels or International A Level subjects, then lead onto university entry. Sometimes Functional Skills English or Maths can be used as an alternative to GCSE but this should be checked in advance as some universities are very specific with their requirements.

If you have chosen a specific profession, your potential employer may also have requirements surrounding GCSE subjects, mainly with English and Math. Studying online will enable you to achieve these qualifications in a reasonable timescale due to the flexibility of having 2 to 3 exam sittings per year, depending on location.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

A course we have recently added to our subject list is English as a Second Language (ESL) with Cambridge or Edexcel. ESL is a popular course for learners who wish to work and travel in English speaking environments. It also helps learners applying to university inside and outside the UK.

Take your learning anywhere!

Our eBook Library has over 150 titles to assist you with your online study. It only requires a web browser to view eBooks but you can also download books onto Android and IOS devices. Great features of this digital resource include:

Accessible for everyone
Dyslexia friendly
High contrast
Read aloud
Large font
Multiple background colours

IGCSE FAQs

What are International GCSEs?
The International GCSE is the world’s most popular international qualification that is equivalent to a GCSE.
It is recognised by leading universities and employers worldwide and is an international passport to development and achievement.
They can help you:
- win a place at college/university at home or abroad
- succeed with your career path
- satisfy the language requirements for some universities in English-speaking nations
- develop day to day skills
How many IGCSE subjects should I take and what subjects should I choose?
If you are wondering how many GCSEs to study, it is all down to your circumstances. At school, you would typically study approximately nine subjects. If you are looking to go onto a college course afterwards, they would usually state how many they require from you and the grades. We have some learners take one subject and others take a whole range of subjects!
Do you require help choosing your subject? Our student advisors can offer useful advice including which courses complement each other well. All you need to consider is which course you are most likely to find enjoyable. If you have a passion for a specific course, you are more likely to excel and attain the grades you desire.
Core Subjects
Maths, English and Science are the core subjects everyone must take at GCSE in England. English Language is compulsory in all schools, and so is English Literature in the majority of schools.
We offer Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate qualifications. Otherwise, you may want to combine all three and take the Combined Science GCSE which provides two qualifications.
The International GCSE is a great stepping stone. It helps learners who want to keep their future study/career options open. It also helps learners who know exactly what they want to do and progress onto A Levels.
Who are Online GCSEs for?
GCSE Online courses with Learn Now Distance Learning College are flexible and therefore they can be for anyone!
If you are considering college, GCSEs will help you when looking at the entry requirements.
Employers also value GCSEs as they show a good level of education, especially English and Maths. These qualifications are also great if you are looking to move onto A Levels. They provide a good introduction to the subject you will continue to study at A Level.
Sometimes you will even study this qualification as a hobby especially if it is a subject, you find interesting!
What grades do I need to be accepted onto one of these courses?
There is no previous entry requirements for this course, however learners are expected to have a reasonable standard of literacy and numeracy skills.
What is it like to study an Online GCSE?
With our courses, we provide full tutor support meaning:
- You can message your tutor as many times as you need to with any queries you may have regarding your course.
- Your tutor will monitor your progress throughout the course. If you have a target grade, your tutor will provide you with advice on how to achieve this.
- Your tutor will mark assignments which assess you at each stage of the course and provide you with full feedback.
- Provide you with practise examinations papers in the lead up to your GCSE examinations.
Can I study an IGCSE from outside of the UK?
Yes of course you can! We have learners situated all over the world studying IGCSEs with our college.
We have the largest range of subjects to choose from, and we offer both Edexcel and CIE awarding bodies. You really are spoilt for choice.
Are IGCSEs harder than GCSEs?
No, both are considered equivalent in ability.
How long do IGCSEs take?
This is entirely up to you. If you were attending a face-to-face school or college, your course would probably take two years to complete. However, through home study, you can work at your own pace and complete much sooner.