On paper, at the very least GCSEs and IGCSEs sound like each other. However, there’s more to these two than just the countries that they’re taught in. Let’s examine the specific ways GCSEs or IGCSEs vary.
Country-by-Country Availability
The main reason IGCSE as opposed to GCSE course offerings differ is the countries in which they are offered. IGCSEs are only offered in some countries, while IGCSEs can be available on a larger scope, and in more than 150 countries across the globe.
Furthermore, you could also take IGCSEs in countries that provide regular GCSEs which includes the UK. Some schools which cater to international students offer IGCSEs as a way to ensure an individualized learning experience regardless of which part of the world.
Let’s say, for instance, the student was taking an IGCSE in the UK. If they decide to go back to their home country it would be possible to resume their studies from where they left, if IGCSEs were offered.
At Oxbridge we provide both IGCSE as well as GCSE courses that cater to an array of distance-learning students from every walk of life.
Course Content
There are a large variety of subjects available to students who take each IGCSE and GCSE however, the contents of the individual courses could differ between both kinds of qualifications, even within the identical subject.
As an example, suppose you were planning to pursue a degree in English Literature; the curriculum for the GCSE might differ from the IGCSE which can result in an entirely distinct learning environment.
What’s the reason? It all comes down to the cultural and contextual factors in some subjects and subjects being more relevant to the English-speaking UK students.
For English Literature, the customary GCSE course could focus on well-known British writers, such as William Shakespeare. For the IGCSE the course could be more broad and take an international approach, and focus on writers from different countries and cultures.
The syllabuses are also different in GCSEs and IGCSEs. They also have different subjects that are compulsory based on the area of study. For example subjects differ for subjects like history as well as Geography which better reflect the requirements of an international student population.
Exam Dates
In the UK we are familiar with GCSE examinations that are held in the summer months when students receive their results in the month of August. The principal GCSE examination period usually runs from May through June, giving students plenty of time to finish their coursework and prepare for examination time.
It’s a little different for IGCSEs. Although the majority of the exams for these qualifications take place from May to June, some exams are held between the learning months of November and January each year. It is dependent on the topic in question.
If you’re considering taking IGCSEs Don’t be shocked that you’ll be required to sit tests outside of the typical June-May timeframe. Don’t fret, as you’ll still have plenty of time to prepare, thanks to the possibility of varying course start and end dates for subjects that are IGCSE.
If you decide to enroll on an online learning course to earn GCSE or IGCSE certificates You won’t be held to strict examination dates in any way. It is your choice to enroll at a time that is convenient for you and you’ll have two years to finish the course in your own way. This is an excellent option for those who are trying to balance work and studying because you’ll be able to make your classes fit with your working hours.
Should I Take GCSEs or IGCSE?
Although this article may have been focused on the distinctions between IGCSE and GCSE, it shouldn’t be a guideline for your decision in any way. Both are highly considered and are an acknowledged pathway into higher education, both in the UK as well as in other countries.
It’s popular for international students to complete IGCSEs due to the flexibility and variety of curriculum they offer. Many students might decide to take a mix of IGCSE as well as GCSE in accordance with the institution they are studying at.
When deciding between IGCSE instead of GCSE The most important thing to take into consideration is whether the course meets your goals in the near future. What will it do to assist you in achieving the next stage of your professional career?
What will it do to provide the right opportunities for you? One of the greatest benefits of taking IGCSEs is that they are recognized across the world . This can be very beneficial in the event that you plan on going abroad to study or work in the near future.
If you’re seeking to earn the school leaver qualification It’s worth taking into consideration that IGCSEs offer all the advantages of traditional GCSEs and several additional bonuses that can aid your education and career goals.
