Cambridge vs Edexcel IGCSE
5 min read ยท updated 2026-10-03
Both boards offer internationally recognised IGCSEs, but the papers differ. Schools choose the board, so the useful question is how to prepare for the one your child sits.
The main differences
- โ Grading: Cambridge IGCSE uses A* to G (with 9-1 versions of some subjects); Pearson Edexcel International GCSE uses 9 to 1
- โ Tiers: Cambridge uses Core and Extended in many subjects; Edexcel uses Foundation and Higher in maths
- โ Series: Cambridge runs May/June and October/November (plus March in India); Edexcel runs May/June and November
- โ Maths: Cambridge 0580 has a non-calculator paper at each tier; Edexcel 4MA1 allows a calculator on both papers
- โ Subjects: Cambridge offers more than 70 IGCSE subjects
What it means for revision
Practise with your own board's past papers and mark schemes: question style and mark allocation differ even in the same subject. Universities accept both boards' qualifications.
FAQs
Is Cambridge or Edexcel IGCSE harder?๏ผ
Neither is harder overall; the papers are different in style, so preparation should match the board.
Do universities accept both?๏ผ
Yes, both are widely recognised.
Which grading does each use?๏ผ
Cambridge mostly A* to G; Edexcel International GCSE 9 to 1.
Sources
Facts on this page were checked against these official sources on 2026-10-03.
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