Excel in iGCSE Physics with Targeted Practice
Tackle iGCSE Physics with practice on mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity, and nuclear physics.
Content reviewed February 2026 · Aligned to current specifications
About iGCSE Physics
iGCSE Physics develops understanding of the fundamental principles governing the physical world, from forces and motion to electricity, waves, energy and nuclear physics. Cambridge International and Edexcel International both offer the qualification, designed for students in international schools seeking a rigorous grounding in the subject.
The examination consists of written papers covering multiple-choice, structured and free-response questions. Practical skills are assessed through written questions about experimental design and data analysis rather than a separate hands-on examination in most variants. Students choose between Core and Extended pathways, with the Extended curriculum offering access to the highest grades.
iGCSE Physics places strong emphasis on mathematical problem-solving, unit analysis and the application of physics principles to real-world scenarios. It is widely accepted as preparation for International A-Level Physics, the IB Diploma and engineering or science pathways at university.
Topics Covered
Exam Boards
iGCSE Physics is available from these exam boards
How UpGrades Helps
Adaptive Practice
Questions adapt to your level in Physics, focusing on the topics where you need the most improvement.
Spaced Repetition
Review Physics topics at optimal intervals to maximise long-term retention for your iGCSE exam.
Progress Tracking
See exactly how you're progressing across all 8 Physics topics with detailed analytics.
Study Tips for Physics
- ✓ Learn the key equations and practice rearranging them. Unlike some UK GCSE specifications, iGCSE Physics requires you to recall and manipulate more formulae from memory.
- ✓ Draw clear, labelled diagrams for circuits, ray diagrams, force diagrams and experimental setups. Marks are specifically allocated for diagram quality in iGCSE papers.
- ✓ Work through numerical problems daily, focusing on unit conversions (e.g. km/h to m/s, kJ to J) as careless unit errors are the most common cause of lost marks.
- ✓ Create summary tables linking each topic to its key equations, units and typical exam question types.
Exam Tips for iGCSE Physics
- ✓ Always include units in your final answer. iGCSE Physics mark schemes frequently allocate a separate mark for the correct unit.
- ✓ When asked to explain a physical phenomenon, structure your answer as a logical chain of cause and effect. Avoid vague statements and use precise scientific terminology.
- ✓ In graph-based questions, read the axes carefully, calculate gradients accurately and state what the gradient or area under the curve represents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between iGCSE Physics and GCSE Physics? +
How much maths is in iGCSE Physics? +
Do I need to memorise all the formulae for iGCSE Physics? +
What grade do I need for A-Level Physics? +
Related IGCSE Physics Study Guides
GCSE Physics Equations: The Complete List You Need to Memorise
Complete list of GCSE Physics equations you must memorise for your exam. Includes tips for remembering formulas and applying them to exam questions.
IGCSEGCSE Physics Equation Sheet: Every Formula You Need to Know
Master GCSE Physics equations. Learn which formulas are provided in the exam, what you must memorise, and how to apply them effectively.
Useful Resources
Physics at other levels: GCSE Physics · A-Level Physics · International A-Level Physics
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