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Introduction of iGCSE in state schools

The iGCSE, or International General Certificate of Secondary Education, is an internationally recognised qualification for pupils in the 14-16 age group. It provides an alternative to GCSEs, and is taken all over the world.

The number of UK centres offering iGCSEs has increased following a government announcement in June 2010 that they were removing the restrictions that stopped state schools offering the iGCSE. The qualification is also now included in school performance tables and the English Baccalaureate. Over 3,000 UK centres are now offering iGCSEs to their learners.

As the iGCSE does not follow the national curriculum, it was decided that the similarity of the name to GCSE could cause confusion for learners and their parents. To draw a distinction between iGCSEs and GCSEs, it was decided that for accreditation purposes iGCSEs should be given a more distinctive name. Therefore for teaching in state schools iGCSEs are known officially as Level 1/Level 2 Certificates. For example:

  • AQA Level 1/Level 2 Certificate in English Language
  • Cambridge International Level 1/Level 2 Certificate in Biology
  • Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 Certificate in Mathematics.

It is important that you are aware of the name change so that you can recognise that applicants with these qualifications are holding GCSE equivalents.

University of Cambridge International Examinations has created a leaflet about its new Level 1/Level 2 Certificates, including some sample certificates. Please click on the link below to download the PDF:

Cambridge iGCSE for UK schools: Information for universities

If you have any queries regarding these qualifications, please contact UCAS at quals@ucas.ac.uk