The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Curriculum
What is Upper Secondary education? Coming from the British system, Upper Secondary education is the equivalent of the first two years of high school in the US system, when students between the ages of 14 and 16 get ready for international qualifications known as “IGCSEs.” The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is the world’s most prominent international qualification for this age group, and it’s recognized by leading colleges, universities, and employers worldwide. The IGCSE curriculum offers an international passport for your child’s progression and success.
Your child will typically study nine subjects over six terms. After two years of study, students are assessed through exams released by examining boards based in England, which provides a useful benchmark of performance at the age of 16.
Personalization for Secondary School Students
Your child will have the option to select their IGCSE subjects based on their preferences, interests, and ambitions. We’ll work together to help them make the best choices for their future success, both in school and beyond. Our teachers monitor their progress over the two-year period to ensure that they are on track to succeed.
Subjects and Skills
Compulsory Subjects:
- English Literature
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Statistics
Students are also encouraged to choose:
- One humanities subject
- Two sciences
- One language
Optional Subjects:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- French
- Spanish
- History
- Geography
- Physical Education
- Art
- Drama
- Music
Languages
We encourage students to choose one subject from either IGCSE French or Spanish.
Progression to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP)
Eight IGCSEs at C grade or above is worth the equivalent of a standard US High School Diploma by the end of Year 11 (or Grade 10 in the US system). This accelerated academic program is then followed by the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Years 12–13 (or Grades 11–12 in the US system). We’re proud to be an IB World School, delivering this well-respected and highly valued curriculum. IB World Schools share a common philosophy that British International School of Charlotte believes is transformative to our students: a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education.
The completion of the IGCSE and IBDP at our school offers an excellent, well-rounded educational platform for entry into competitive colleges and universities worldwide.
Learn more about studying the International Baccalaureate (IB).
