Many parents in the Gulf, the UK and beyond hear both names and wonder whether they are the same thing. They are two separate qualifications from two exam boards: Cambridge IGCSE and Pearson Edexcel International GCSE. Your child’s school decides which one is taken, and tuition should follow that specification.
The main difference: the specification
Each board publishes its own specification, with its own code, paper structure and past papers. The topics overlap, but the order, question style and papers are not identical, so past papers from one board are not a perfect substitute for the other.
Specification codes at a glance
| Subject | Cambridge IGCSE | Edexcel International GCSE |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 0580 | 4MA1 (Mathematics A) |
| Physics | 0625 | 4PH1 |
| Chemistry | 0620 | 4CH1 |
| Biology | 0610 | 4BI1 |
| Combined / Double Award Science | 0653 (Combined) | 4SD0 (Double Award) |
How to check which one your child is taking
Look at the school entry form, a past paper or the exam timetable. The code printed there tells you the board and subject. If you are unsure, send it to us and we will confirm it before the first lesson.
Which is better?
Neither is simply better. Both are recognised international qualifications, and the right one is the one your child’s school enters them for. A good tutor teaches to that specification.
Not sure which route your child is on?
Tell us the subject, level and exam board and we will help you check. Your first demo class is free. Book a free demo or message us on WhatsApp.