iGCSE vs. GCSE

What do the letters mean?

GCSE stands for General Certificate of Secondary Education. It’s the standard set of exams taken by students in the UK.

iGCSE adds the “i” for International, so it’s the International General Certificate of Secondary Education. This is basically the global version of the GCSE.

So, at a glance, the main difference is that one is designed mainly for the UK, and the other is meant for students all over the world.

But there are subtle differences in how each qualification is taken.

Curriculum

At their core, GCSEs and iGCSEs cover very similar subject content. Both are taken at the same level (Level 2) and usually studied between ages 14–16.

However, there can be small differences depending on the exam board, so it’s always worth taking a look at the course specifics before you decide.

Coursework vs. exams

One of the biggest ways GCSEs and iGCSEs have traditionally differed is how students are assessed.

GCSEs used to lean more heavily on coursework, what’s now called 'Non-Exam Assessments (NEA)'.

Though nowadays, GCSEs tend to be more exam-based.

IGCSEs were originally designed to be exam-heavy with very little coursework involved.

But things have changed a bit! Many iGCSEs now include coursework options too, so it really depends on the subject and exam board (like Cambridge, Edexcel, AQA etc.).

In short, the difference isn’t as huge as it once was.

The best tip? Always check the course content before signing up. For our GCSE and iGCSE courses, every detail is clearly listed so you know exactly what to expect.

Grading system

Both GCSEs and iGCSEs now use the 9–1 grading scale (with 9 being the highest), though some international versions still use letter grades (A*–G).

Again, it depends on the exam board offering the qualification.

For UK universities and sixth forms, both grading formats are fully understood and accepted.

Is iGCSE harder than GCSE?

This is one of the most common questions. IGCSEs are sometimes considered the more challenging qualification, but in truth, there’s no simple yes or no answer.

Some people feel iGCSEs can be slightly more content-heavy, especially in subjects like maths and science. This is partly because they were originally designed for an international cohort and sometimes include broader examples or more theoretical content.

On the other hand, GCSEs are regulated specifically for UK schools and are carefully standardised.

Either way, both GCSEs and iGCSEs give you the skills and knowledge you need to move on to A levels or other international qualifications.

Why do people take IGCSEs?

You might be thinking: “Wait, if iGCSEs are considered harder by some people, why would anyone pick them?”

The answer usually comes down to your plans.

iGCSEs are the international version of the GCSE, and they’re recognised by schools and universities around the world. That makes them really useful if:

• You’re planning to move abroad or attend an international school.
• You’re aiming to study post-16 qualifications like the IB Diploma, which are widely offered internationally.
• You want to keep doors open for university abroad, especially in countries that are familiar with the iGCSE system.

Which one should you choose?

If your goal is to study abroad, take an international qualification later, or simply have recognised proof of core skills for living abroad, iGCSEs can make the transition a lot easier.

They give you a slightly more global perspective, help prepare you for further education courses like the IB Diploma, and keep doors open for universities around the world.

On the other hand, GCSEs work perfectly if you’re in the UK and plan to continue through A Levels and onto a UK university.

The choice isn’t about which is 'better.' It’s about what fits your plans, your school, and your learning style.

Both qualifications give you the knowledge and skills you need to succeed, it’s just a question of where you want those skills to take you next.