IGCSE Explained: A Parent’s Guide to Course Selection, Grading, and Future Pathways

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is one of the most recognised and respected academic programs worldwide for students aged 14-16. Designed to develop critical thinking, practical skills, and a strong academic foundation, the IGCSE prepares students for further education such as A-levels, the IB Diploma, or equivalent pathways. This blog provides an overview of the IGCSE structure, grading system, and the courses offered at our school.

What is the IGCSE?

The IGCSE curriculum is designed to cater to students with different abilities, offering Core and Extended levels in Mathematics and Science. While the Core syllabus provides a broad overview of subjects with achievable outcomes, the Extended syllabus goes into greater depth, challenging students who aim for higher academic achievements. IGCSE subjects are assessed through a mix of exams, coursework, and practical components, depending on the subject. Some courses at IGCSE are graded using the 9-1 grading scale, where 9 is the highest grade, while others follow the traditional A-G grading scale*.

The IGCSE qualifications offered at our school come from two major examination boards:

• Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE)
• Pearson Edexcel 

IGCSE Grading System

The IGCSE grading system varies depending on the syllabus and exam board:

• Cambridge IGCSE: Uses the traditional A to G* grading system.
• Pearson Edexcel IGCSE: Often uses the 9-1 grading scale.

The grades are broken into two tiers for certain subjects :

• Core Curriculum: Grades C to G (Cambridge) or 5-1 (Pearson)
• Extended/Additional Curriculum: Grades A* to E (Cambridge) or 9-4 (Pearson)

This two-tiered structure ensures that every student is assessed based on their ability, encouraging success at all levels. For students aiming for competitive university placements, achieving grades A* to C or 7-9 in key subjects is highly beneficial.

BCB IGCSE Curriculum

*All students study English, Mathematics, Science, History OR Geography, Portuguese AND OR Spanish

Optional Subjects: Students choose 3 from the following Global Perspectives, Music, Drama, Art, Computer Science, Physical Education, Business, Economics, Spanish Literature.

Grade Comparison Table

The table below compares the traditional A* to G grading system with the 1-9 scale used in some IGCSE courses:

 

A* to G grade	9-1 Grade
A*	9,8
A	7
B	6,5
C	4
D	3
E	2
F	1,2
G	1
U (ungraded)	0

 

 

Courses Offered at Our School

Our school offers a diverse range of IGCSE subjects that cater to both academic and creative student profiles we have here at BCB. Here is a breakdown of the courses available:

English
• English Language: Focuses on reading, writing, and critical analysis to develop communication skills. (Graded A*-G)
• English Literature: Explores classic and contemporary literary works, encouraging analytical and interpretative skills. (Graded A*-G)
• English Language B: Designed for students whose first language is not English, focusing on language acquisition and fluency. (Graded A*-G)

Mathematics
• Mathematics Core: Covers foundational mathematical skills suitable for all students. (Graded 5-1)
• Mathematics Additional: A more advanced course for students with strong mathematical aptitude. (Graded 9-4)
• Mathematics Extended: Designed for students aiming for higher levels of study, offering an in-depth exploration of mathematical concepts. (Graded 9-4) *Only students studying the extended course will have the opportunity to study the additional course. The additional course is an excellent preparation for IB AA higher level mathematics.

Sciences (Due to the content within the science curriculum the course is equivalent to 2 IGCSE Grades)

• Coordinated Science Core: A general science course providing foundational knowledge across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. (Graded BB-GG)
• Coordinated Science Extended: A more rigorous course that delves deeper into scientific theories and applications. (Graded A*A*- CC)

Languages
• Portuguese A: For native or fluent speakers, focusing on advanced language skills and literature. (Graded A*-G)
• Spanish A: Designed for native speakers, covering language proficiency and literary analysis. (Graded A*-G)
• Spanish Literature: A focused study of Spanish literary texts, developing critical and cultural understanding. (Graded A*-G)

Humanities and Business
• History: Develops an understanding of key historical events, themes, and skills in historical analysis. (Graded A*-G)
• Geography: Focuses on physical and human geography, analyzing global environments and cultures. (Graded A*-G)
• Business: Develops an understanding of business concepts, including entrepreneurship, finance, and operations. (Graded A*-G)
• Global Perspectives: Encourages students to explore global issues, fostering research, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. (Graded A*-G)

Creative and Performing Arts
• Art: Develops artistic skills and creativity through practical work and analysis of art movements. (Graded 9-1)
• Drama: Focuses on performance, theater production, and appreciation of dramatic works. (Graded A*-G)
• Music: Enhances musical skills through performance, composition, and music theory. (Graded A*-G) 2025, (Graded 9-1) in 2026

Physical Education
• Physical Education (PE): A mix of theory and practical coursework focusing on fitness, health, and sport science. (Graded 9-1)

Technology and Computing
• Computer Science: Develops skills in programming, algorithms, and computational thinking. (Graded 9-1)

Choosing the Right Courses

When selecting IGCSE subjects, it is important for parents and students to consider:

• Academic strengths: Choose subjects that align with your child’s skills and interests.
• Future goals: Consider subjects required for higher studies or careers.
• Balance: A mix of sciences, humanities, languages, and creative subjects ensures a well-rounded education.
• Timing: Year 9 students begin the process of choosing IGCSE subject in Jan 2025 of year 9 with the process concluding in May 2025 of year 9. The school will hold information sessions for parents and students about each of the subjects, including information about the content and how the subjects are assessed. 
  
  

What our students say:

"Studying the IGCSE curriculum has been a rewarding and challenging experience, allowing me to better understand my interests and future pathways. Thanks to the various subjects offered by the curriculum, I have explored my passions; the combination of business, mathematics, and sociology has helped me discover my passion for International business and marketing, which directed me toward my future career. In my experience, what makes the IGCSE unique is the skill development and practical applications it offers, with coursework and projects students are encouraged to develop throughout this two-year course. I have immensely valued the opportunity to take action in the global perspectives subject; I created a project with my peers, and we got to participate in an NGO supporting the education of children in need. These experiences have not only helped me develop as a student but also contributed to my personal growth, preparing me for my future. As a suggestion, for those still in doubt about what subjects to choose, I recommend selecting the subjects that interest you the most and are related to the career path you are striving for. Finally, I strongly recommend students to take part in the IGCSE as, through my experience, it has been extremely beneficial, and now I feel prepared towards IB and university choices" - Yasmim Patsch Souza, Y11

Conclusion

The IGCSE program provides students with an exceptional opportunity to develop knowledge, skills, and confidence in a variety of subjects. By understanding the structure, grading system, and available courses, parents can guide their children towards achieving academic success and preparing for the future. If you have any questions about subject selection or pathways, our academic team is always here to help.

Contact:
Mr Brock (KS4, Key Stage 4 Phase leader) jonathanbrock@britishcollegebrazil.org
Mr. Hartnett (Head of Secondary) maurice.hartnett@britishcollegebrazil.org
Mr. Jones (Deputy Head of Secondary) michael.jones@britishcollegebrazil.org
Mrs. Caton (School University Counselor) adriana.caton@britishcollegebrazil.org