IGCSEPrimer

Assessment

How a grade is made

Each subject is examined at the end of the two-year course. Papers are written, oral, practical, or coursework depending on the syllabus. There is no overall IGCSE average — only per-subject grades.

A*–G

Classic Cambridge scale. Still used on many IGCSE syllabuses.

  • A*Outstanding
  • AExcellent
  • BVery good
  • CSolid pass
  • D–GPass range (G is lowest)
  • UUngraded

9–1

Aligned with reformed UK GCSEs. Common on Edexcel International GCSE and some Cambridge (9–1) syllabuses.

  • 9Above A*
  • 8–7A* / A band
  • 6–5B / high C
  • 4Standard pass (~C)
  • 3–1Below standard pass

Core

An overview paper set. Designed for students expected to achieve C–G. Choosing Core does not lower the value of a C — it simply does not offer A*–B.

Extended

The harder paper set, aimed at A*–C. If maths or a science will continue to A Level, Extended is the usual expectation.