Excel in iGCSE History with Targeted Practice

Revise iGCSE History with practice on source evaluation, key historical periods, and structured essay writing.

Content reviewed February 2026 · Aligned to current specifications

About iGCSE History

iGCSE History develops students' understanding of key events, individuals and developments that have shaped the modern world. The Cambridge International syllabus offers a range of topics spanning the 19th and 20th centuries, with options covering global themes rather than focusing exclusively on British history, making it genuinely international in scope.

Assessment is through written examination papers requiring source analysis, structured responses and extended essay writing. There is no coursework component in the standard iGCSE History qualification. Students develop skills in evaluating evidence, constructing balanced arguments and understanding how historical interpretations are formed and debated.

The iGCSE History qualification is valued by universities as evidence of strong analytical and communication skills. It is excellent preparation for International A-Level History and provides a foundation for further study in the humanities, social sciences and law.

Topics Covered

Core Content Depth Studies Source Evaluation 20th Century History International Relations Essay Technique Key Individuals Cause & Consequence

Exam Boards

iGCSE History is available from these exam boards

Cambridge International Edexcel International

How UpGrades Helps

Adaptive Practice

Questions adapt to your level in History, focusing on the topics where you need the most improvement.

Spaced Repetition

Review History topics at optimal intervals to maximise long-term retention for your iGCSE exam.

Progress Tracking

See exactly how you're progressing across all 8 History topics with detailed analytics.

Study Tips for History

✓ Create timelines for each topic you study, including key dates, events and turning points. iGCSE History examiners reward precise chronological knowledge.
✓ Practice source analysis regularly - identify the provenance (origin, purpose, context) of each source and evaluate its reliability and usefulness for specific historical questions.
✓ Learn to write concise, well-structured essays with a clear argument. Each paragraph should make a distinct point supported by specific historical evidence.
✓ Study multiple perspectives on each event. iGCSE History questions often ask you to consider different viewpoints and explain why interpretations differ.

Exam Tips for iGCSE History

✓ In source-based questions, always refer to the specific content and provenance of the source rather than making generic statements about bias or reliability.
✓ For essay questions, plan your argument before writing. A brief plan with three to four key points ensures your response is focused and avoids repetition.
✓ Use precise historical vocabulary and avoid anachronisms. Referring to specific treaties, policies, leaders and dates demonstrates depth of knowledge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What topics are covered in iGCSE History? +

Cambridge iGCSE History offers a range of depth studies and core content covering 19th and 20th century world history. Common topics include the Cold War, the World Wars, decolonisation, the Arab-Israeli conflict and changes in medicine. Schools select from the available options, so the specific topics vary.

Is iGCSE History essay-based? +

Partly. The exam includes source-based questions requiring analysis of historical evidence as well as structured and essay questions. The balance between source work and essay writing depends on the specific paper.

How is iGCSE History different from GCSE History? +

iGCSE History covers broader international themes rather than the British-focused content common in many UK GCSE specifications. There is no coursework or controlled assessment, and the exam sessions are available globally in June and November.

Useful Resources

How to Revise History Past Papers Formula Sheets Exam Timetables Specifications

History at other levels: GCSE History · A-Level History · International A-Level History

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