Qualifications that are accepted around the world
IGCSEs and International GCSEs are the world’s most popular international qualifications for students aged 14 to 16. Offered by leading UK-based awarding bodies such as Cambridge International Education, OxfordAQA and Pearson Edexcel, these qualifications are recognised by universities and employers worldwide.
What are International GCSE/Cambridge IGCSE?
IGCSEs (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) and International GCSEs are the world’s most popular international qualifications.
How the qualification works:
Students usually complete the course in two years (Grade 9 and 10).
- Year 1: You study the foundation of the syllabus.
- Year 2: You complete the advanced concepts and prepare for assessments.
Equivalence: These qualifications are fully recognised by the IBCC in Pakistan, ensuring seamless transition to local HSSC (Intermediate) or International A Level.
Assessments meet international standards and include a mixture of written exams, oral tests, as well as practical exams and coursework.
Find out how to register for IGCSE/International GCSE through the British Council and take the next step towards internationally recognised qualifications.
Why study IGCSE/International GCSE ?
Choosing to study IGCSEs offers significant advantages for students preparing for advanced study or future employment. These qualifications are highly valued because they benefit from:
- Global acceptance: Accepted by colleges and universities in the UK, USA, Pakistan, and worldwide as a reliable record of achievement.
- Subject flexibility: Offer the freedom to choose from over 70 subjects based on personal interests and academic strengths.
- Skill development: Develop creative thinking, problem-solving, and investigative skills.
- English proficiency: A Grade C in IGCSE English is often accepted by universities globally as proof of English language competency.
Preparation: Support students’ progression to International A Levels and other higher secondary pathways.
International recognition and university entry
IGCSE/International GCSE are recognised by leading educational institutions globally and are widely considered as the international standard for secondary education. Many institutions view International GCSEs as the ideal preparation for International A Level, which are the primary route to university admissions.
Students with strong International GCSE results are well-prepared for higher education and often find the transition to International A Level much smoother.
UK-based awarding bodies offering IGCSE/International GSCEs in Pakistan
In Pakistan, IGCSE/International GCSE are offered through internationally trusted UK-based awarding bodies: Cambridge International Education, OxfordAQA and Pearson Edexcel.
- Cambridge International Education (Cambridge IGCSE).
- Pearson Edexcel (International GCSE).
- OxfordAQA (International GCSE).
Both qualifications are equivalent in value and recognition and all three awarding bodies ensure consistent global standards and reliable assessment. Students can choose the awarding body that best fits their syllabus preference when registering with us.
Flexible subject choices
You can choose subjects that fit your future career goals. Popular IGCSE/International GSCEs subject groups include:
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
- Languages: English, Urdu, French.
- Mathematics: Core and Additional Maths.
- Humanities: History, Geography, Economics.
Check the full list of available subjects for Cambridge IGCSE, OxfordAQA and Edexcel International GCSE.
International GCSE/Cambridge IGCSE grades and results
IGCSEs and International GCSEs use an internationally recognised grading system. Depending on the exam body, region and subject you may receive grades on two scales: Pearson Edexcel and Oxford AQA primarily use the 9–1 scale, while Cambridge International Education uses both A*–G and 9–1 scale.
| 9-1 Scale (Numerical) | A*-G Scale (Alphabetic) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | A* | Exceptional performance |
| 8 | A* | Excellent |
| 7 | A | Very good |
| 6 | B | Good |
| 5 | C | Strong pass |
| 4 | D | Standard pass |
| 3-2-1 | E | Below pass level |
| U | U | Ungraded |
Higher education institutions have clearly stated that students awarded grades on the 9–1 scale and those awarded grades on the A–G scale are treated equivalently for admissions purposes. Both grading systems are fully recognised and accepted by universities.
When will I get my results?
In Pakistan, exam results are typically available online six weeks after you take your exams. The process depends on which awarding body you registered with. Your local British Council office will provide you with the necessary login details to access your IGCSE/International GCSE grades and results.
IGCSE/International GCSE results
Why take your IGCSE/International GCSE through the British Council?
The British Council provides comprehensive assistance for schools and students throughout the International GCSE journey, managing everything from the initial registration process to the final delivery of results. To ensure peak performance, learners can access a wealth of preparation tools, including official study guides and past exam papers, available through the awarding bodies' platforms.
By choosing the British Council, you benefit from:
- Expert Guidance and Resources: We simplify your journey by providing all the necessary information for a successful registration, including the required documents, an easy-to-use online registration platform, exam tips, and other useful guidance throughout your journey.
- Professional exam administration: You will benefit from our world-class administrative standards and rigorous security protocols, ensuring a seamless, fair, and professional testing environment.
- Pathways to global success:: We facilitate access to internationally recognised qualifications that serve as a premier gateway to further education and prestigious universities across the globe.
Register for IGCSE/International GCSE
Frequently asked questions about IGCSE/International GCSE