With all the different Maths options available, you may be wondering how to choose the right subject. Some people say GCSE Maths, some swear by Functional Skills Maths, and some say just a Level 2 in maths will get you through. Not many people suggest IGCSE Maths but is this just because they don’t understand the amazing benefits that come with this highly respected subject?
When looking for a suitable qualification for Maths, there are many options and sometimes the choice can seem overwhelming. Everyone has a different opinion but let’s look at the benefits:
Is IGCSE Maths better than GCSE Maths?
Contrary to popular belief, neither IGCSE nor GCSE Maths are better than each other. They are both recognised qualifications and can be used globally. Whilst in UK schools, many learners study GCSE Maths, home schooling students tend to choose IGCSE due to the accessibility of private candidate exam centres available to them.
GCSEs exams are only available to students in the UK, whilst IGCSE is available to students worldwide including the UK.
A Qualification That Opens Doors Globally
It doesn’t matter where you live in the world, with IGCSE Maths being recognised in over 160 countries, it is well respected. This can provide flexibility if you are planning to study abroad or applying for universities in a different country to where you live, providing a stamp of credibility to your academic record.
Provides the Starting Point to Further Studies
You may be planning on progressing to A Levels, then possibly University. Before even considering A Levels, you should be confident that you have learnt the basics and this will set you up for subjects such as Physics, Economics, and even Computer Science, which all require calculations. Mastering algebra, geometry and statistics early helps to form the foundations ready for future studies.
Mastering Problem Solving
Whether studying IGCSE or GCSE Maths, you can’t simply memorise the information, you will have to utilise problem-solving and logic. This is an important skill, and exams will be structured to ensure that you can apply what you have been taught and not just repeat something that you have remembered. These skills will be used in everyday life and you will soon find their usefulness.
How Flexible is Maths?
As with all subjects, not all learners work at the same pace. The beauty of IGCSE Maths is that you can choose two levels:
- Core Level: Which focuses on the essential skills required. This will give you a strong foundation.
- Extended Level: For learners who are able to stretch that little further and go deeper, this option may be suitable for you, giving you the opportunity to gain top grades and advanced study.
This ensures that students don’t feel overwhelmed but are still able to challenge themselves.
What Can I Relate Maths to?
Many students ask, “why learn maths?” Once you start studying IGCSE Maths, you will start to realise how this falls into place with everyday life. Such as working out if you need a quarter or a half of a pie or how much change should you expect from a shop assistant.
Be Ahead of the Game for Future Opportunities
When applying to university or job opportunities, your academic record will be scrutinised. An outstanding maths grade will confirm that you are a strong candidate and worthy of consideration.
Challenges for International Students
Accessing this subject is generally quite easy, no matter where you are in the world but there are difficulties that can be encountered depending on your location, resources and school systems.
Whilst many International School can offer this qualification for study, not all learners are able to access it. This can be due to lack of funds available to put into their education or living in rural or underserved areas that have fewer options available
Online and Distance Learning Options
It isn’t always possible or practical to take your maths qualification at a conventional school or college. The beauty of IGCSE Maths is that you can study online and then sit your exams at a private candidate exam centre. With examinations being available in more than 160 countries it opens up opportunities to everyone. Now that Pearson Edexcel allow some of their IGCSEs to be completed online there is even more hope for students.
In many countries, gaining qualifications such as IGCSEs and A Levels is not an automatic right and can become very costly for families trying to raise the funds for school fees. Online colleges ignite the possibility that these qualifications can be achieved. You may not receive that face to face learning or be surrounded by peers but if you are self-motivated, can work on your own initiative and are capable of self-study, this could mean the difference between succeeding or failing.
