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Excel in iGCSE Mathematics with Targeted Practice

Master iGCSE Mathematics with practice on number, algebra, geometry, and statistics aligned to Cambridge and Edexcel international specifications.

Content reviewed February 2026 · Aligned to current specifications

About iGCSE Mathematics

iGCSE Mathematics is an internationally recognised qualification offered by Cambridge International and Edexcel International, designed for students aged 14-16 studying outside the UK national curriculum. The syllabus covers a broad range of mathematical concepts including number, algebra, geometry, statistics and probability, with an emphasis on developing problem-solving skills that transfer across cultures and educational systems.

Unlike UK GCSE Maths, iGCSE Mathematics is typically assessed through two written examination papers with no coursework component. Students choose between the Core curriculum (grades C-G) and the Extended curriculum (grades A*-E), allowing the qualification to cater to a wide range of abilities. Calculators are permitted in both papers, and the exam structure rewards methodical working and clear presentation.

The iGCSE is sat by students in international schools across over 160 countries, making it one of the most widely recognised pre-16 qualifications globally. Universities and employers worldwide accept iGCSE Mathematics as evidence of strong numerical and analytical foundations.

Topics Covered

Number Algebra Functions Geometry Coordinate Geometry Trigonometry Vectors & Transformations Probability Statistics Sets

Exam Boards

iGCSE Mathematics is available from these exam boards

Cambridge International Edexcel International

How UpGrades Helps

Adaptive Practice

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

Spaced Repetition

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

Progress Tracking

See exactly how you're progressing across all 10 Mathematics topics with detailed analytics.

Study Tips for Mathematics

  • ✓ Work through past paper questions from both Cambridge and Edexcel International syllabi, as the question styles differ significantly from UK GCSE papers.
  • ✓ Build a formula sheet as you study each topic - iGCSE exams provide fewer formulae than UK GCSEs, so you need to memorise more.
  • ✓ Focus on multi-step problems that combine algebra with geometry or statistics, as these are common in Extended paper questions worth the most marks.
  • ✓ Practice converting between different representations (graphs, tables, equations, words) as iGCSE examiners frequently test this skill.

Exam Tips for iGCSE Mathematics

  • ✓ Always show your working clearly - iGCSE mark schemes award method marks even when the final answer is incorrect, which can make the difference between grades.
  • ✓ In the Extended paper, attempt every question even if you are unsure. The paper progresses from straightforward to challenging, but later questions often have accessible opening parts worth easy marks.
  • ✓ Double-check unit conversions carefully, especially in questions involving compound measures, as international papers sometimes use units less common in your home country.

Other iGCSE Subjects

English Language

8 topics

CIE EDEXCEL INTL

English Literature

8 topics

CIE EDEXCEL INTL

Biology

10 topics

CIE EDEXCEL INTL

Chemistry

10 topics

CIE EDEXCEL INTL
View all iGCSE subjects →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between iGCSE Maths and GCSE Maths? +
iGCSE Maths is designed for an international audience and is offered by Cambridge International (CIE) and Edexcel International rather than UK-focused boards like AQA or OCR. The content overlaps significantly, but iGCSE has no coursework, uses a Core/Extended tier system instead of Foundation/Higher, and is assessed entirely through written exams taken in global examination sessions.
Is iGCSE Maths accepted by UK universities? +
Yes. UK universities, including Russell Group institutions, accept iGCSE Mathematics as equivalent to GCSE Mathematics for entry purposes. A grade C or above in iGCSE Maths satisfies the standard GCSE Maths requirement for most undergraduate courses.
When can I sit iGCSE Maths exams? +
Cambridge International offers iGCSE examination sessions in June and November each year. Edexcel International offers sessions in January, June and October. This flexibility is one of the key advantages of the international qualification.
Should I take Core or Extended iGCSE Maths? +
If you are aiming for a grade B or above, you should take the Extended curriculum as the Core pathway caps at grade C. Most students intending to study A-Level Mathematics or any maths-heavy subject at university should sit the Extended papers.

Related IGCSE Mathematics Study Guides

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Guide to GCSE Further Maths covering topics, how it differs from standard GCSE Maths, exam boards that offer it, and revision strategies.

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GCSE Maths Revision: 10 Proven Tips to Boost Your Grade

Proven GCSE Maths revision tips from expert tutors. Discover strategies for algebra, geometry, and statistics that help students achieve top grades.

Useful Resources

How to Revise Mathematics Past Papers Formula Sheets Exam Timetables Specifications

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

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