igcse mathematics with coursework

IGCSE Maths: A Complete Guide

Dr Rahil Sachak-Patwa

Starting IGCSE Maths and curious about what it involves? It's a key subject that helps prepare you for future studies and careers. But what does it really mean to take this course, and how can you excel in it? Is it as tough as some say, or is there a way to tackle it effectively? IGCSE Maths covers a wide range of topics, from the basics to more complex concepts. Whether you're aiming for a top grade or just looking to pass, understanding the syllabus, exam structure, and best study practices is crucial. But how do you start, and what resources can help you on this journey?

Is IGCSE Maths hard?

The difficulty of IGCSE Maths often sparks debate among students and educators alike. According to a survey performed, IGCSE Maths ranked 1st in the list of hardest IGCSE subjects . While individual experiences vary, certain statistics and expert opinions shed light on this subject, suggesting that the challenge is real but not impossible.

• Student Performance: A significant percentage of students achieve grades in the A* to C range, indicating that with diligent study, success is within reach.
• Teacher Feedback: Many teachers believe that the success in IGCSE Maths hinges on consistent practice and understanding fundamental concepts.
• Exam Structure Complexity: The exam's format, divided into Core and Extended papers, allows students to be assessed at a level suited to their abilities.

Table showing CIE IGCSE Maths grades distribution (9-1 grading scale)

The perception of difficulty largely depends on a student's background in maths prior to starting the IGCSE course. Those with a strong foundation may find the course challenging yet manageable, while others may need to invest more time in study and practice to grasp the concepts fully. Ultimately, the key to overcoming these challenges lies in a proactive approach to learning, utilising available resources, and consistent practice and revision.

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What is the IGCSE Maths Syllabus?

The IGCSE Maths syllabus is designed to develop a student's mathematical knowledge and skills in a balanced way. It's structured to provide a broad overview of key mathematical concepts, ensuring students are well-prepared for further education and practical use in everyday life.

• Core Topics: These include numbers, algebra, geometry, and statistics, laying the foundation for all students.
• Additional Topics: For those taking the Extended curriculum, more complex topics like calculus and advanced trigonometry are introduced.
• Practical Applications: Emphasis is placed on applying mathematical concepts to real-world situations, enhancing problem-solving skills.

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Cambridge IGCSE Maths Syllabus

The Cambridge IGCSE Maths syllabus provides a comprehensive introduction to mathematics, emphasizing practical skills and theoretical understanding suitable for the real world. It nurtures analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities. All students study the following topics:

Table showing Cambridge IGCSE Maths Syllabus

Important points:

• All of the Core content is in the Extended content .
• The course is tiered to enable effective differentiation for learners. The Core content is intended for learners targeting grades G–C, and the Extended content is intended for learners targeting grades D–A*.

Table showing topic weight distribution for Cambridge International IGCSE Maths Syllabus

Education experts stress the importance of the syllabus's breadth, highlighting its role in fostering analytical thinking and versatility in mathematical application. Regardless of the exam board, the IGCSE Maths syllabus is designed to challenge and engage students, preparing them for a variety of academic and career paths. With the right approach and resources, mastering this syllabus is not only achievable but also immensely rewarding.

What is the IGCSE Maths exam structure?

The exam structure for IGCSE Maths generally consists of multiple papers, designed to assess a wide range of mathematical skills and understanding. This approach caters to students with varying levels of experience and proficiency, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of their abilities.

Cambridge IGCSE Maths Exam Structure

The CIE IGCSE Maths exam format is designed to test a broad spectrum of mathematical skills, from basic arithmetic and algebra to more complex areas like geometry and statistics. It emphasizes both the understanding of mathematical principles and the application of these principles in solving real-world problems, encouraging analytical thinking and logical reasoning.

Table showing CIE IGCSE Maths exam structure for both Core and Extended candidates

As per instructions from Cambridge International, the following guidelines must be observed:

• All candidates take two components (either core or extended) .
• Candidates who have studied the Core syllabus content, or who are expected to achieve a grade D or below, should be entered for Paper 1 and Paper 3 . These candidates will be eligible for grades C to G.
• Candidates who have studied the Extended syllabus content and who are expected to achieve a grade C or above should be entered for Paper 2 and Paper 4. These candidates will be eligible for grades A* to E.
• Candidates should have a scientific calculator for all papers.
• Three significant figures will be required in answers (or one decimal place for answers in degrees) except where otherwise stated.
• Candidates should use the value of π from their calculator or the value of 3.142

The distinction between Core and Extended papers allows students to be assessed at an appropriate level, with the Extended option providing an added opportunity to demonstrate higher-order mathematical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Successful navigation of this structure is key to achieving top grades, with practice and familiarity with past papers being crucial strategies.

Core vs. Extended Curriculum: What's the Difference?

The IGCSE Maths curriculum is divided into two tiers: Core and Extended. This division ensures that the examination can cater to students with varying levels of mathematical proficiency, providing a pathway that best suits their skills and future aspirations.

• Core Curriculum : Designed for students aiming for grades C to G. It covers fundamental mathematical concepts and provides a solid foundation for further study without delving into more complex topics.
• Extended Curriculum : Targets students aiming for grades A* to C. It encompasses all Core topics and adds more challenging content, preparing students for advanced studies in mathematics and related fields.

Choosing the right tier for a student's abilities and future plans is very important. The Core curriculum is suitable for those seeking a basic understanding of mathematics, while the Extended curriculum is aimed at students who wish to pursue higher education in mathematics, sciences, or any field requiring strong mathematical skills. The choice between Core and Extended can significantly impact a student's academic trajectory, making it a critical decision in their IGCSE journey.

Choosing the Right Exam Board

When navigating through the options in search of an IGCSE Maths exam board, understanding the distinct approaches and offerings of each is crucial. Two of the most widely recognised boards are Cambridge (CAIE) and Edexcel, each with its unique focus and assessment style.

• CAIE : The Cambridge IGCSE Maths syllabus is renowned for its emphasis on developing students' problem-solving skills and ability to apply mathematical concepts in real-life scenarios. The assessment method is designed to test students' understanding thoroughly, with a mix of structured questions and those requiring longer, more detailed responses. This board is popular among international schools and is well-regarded for its rigorous standards and global recognition.
• Edexcel : Edexcel's approach to IGCSE Maths is characterised by its clarity and structured assessment format. It aims to make the subject accessible to all students, focusing on clear, straightforward questions that assess both computational skills and understanding. Edexcel is known for its user-friendly exam papers and detailed mark schemes, which many teachers and students find helpful for preparation.

Graph showing number of students who took Edexcel IGCSE Maths exams in the past 5 years in the UK

When considering exams, it's is also important to understand how they differ. Many students and parents find themselves comparing IGCSEs and GCSEs, wondering which one might be better suited to their educational goals. It's not just about the content; the structure, grading system, and even the way courses are taught can vary significantly. If you're curious about how IGCSEs stack up against GCSEs, our IGCSEs Vs GCSEs guide breaks down the key differences in a way that's easy to understand, highlighting what makes each unique and how they can impact your learning experience.

How do you get top grade in IGCSE Maths?

Securing a top grade in IGCSE Maths requires a strategic approach to studying and understanding the exam's expectations. Experts and top-performing students alike emphasise the importance of a well-rounded preparation strategy.

• Consistent Practice: Regularly solving past papers questions to familiarise yourself with the exam format and identify areas for improvement.
• Understanding Concepts: Deeply understanding mathematical concepts rather than memorising procedures ensures you can tackle any problem thrown your way.
• Utilising Resources: High-quality study notes and resources can provide invaluable insights and clarify difficult topics.
• IGCSE Tutoring : Personalised tutoring can address individual weaknesses and tailor the learning process to suit specific needs.

Statistics show that students who engage in regular revision sessions, especially those tailored to their learning style, significantly improve their chances of achieving higher grades. Moreover, making use of available resources, including online platforms and tutoring, has been proven to enhance understanding and exam performance. Ultimately, a combination of dedicated study, practical application, and targeted support forms the cornerstone of success in IGCSE Maths.

Have a look at our comprehensive set of IGCSE Maths Study Notes developed by expert IGCSE teachers and examiners!

What are the best IGCSEs to take with Maths?

Choosing the right IGCSE subjects combination to complement Maths is crucial for students aiming to maximise their academic and career prospects. Subject selection should align with future goals, whether they lean towards sciences, engineering, economics, or a maths-intensive field.

• IGCSE Physics : Offers a solid foundation for understanding mathematical applications in real-world phenomena.
• IGCSE Chemistry : Enhances analytical skills and precision, qualities that are beneficial in both chemistry and maths.
• IGCSE Economics: Develops analytical and problem-solving skills, applying mathematical concepts to economic theories.
• IGCSE Computer Science: Encourages logical thinking and problem-solving through programming, closely linked with mathematical reasoning.
• IGCSE Further Maths: For those particularly strong in maths, taking Further Maths provides an advanced challenge and preparation for higher education.

Graph showing grades distribution of CIE IGCSE Maths in UK for 2022 and 2023

The synergy between Maths and these subjects not only enhances a student’s understanding of mathematical principles but also builds a strong foundation for university-level studies. Data indicates that students who choose complementary subjects alongside Maths tend to perform better academically, as the interconnected knowledge aids in a deeper comprehension of each subject. Therefore, selecting IGCSE subjects that reflect personal interests and career aspirations, while ensuring they complement Maths, is key to academic success.

Best IGCSE Maths Resources

Securing success in IGCSE Maths hinges on the utilisation of a wide array of quality study resources. The integration of diverse materials caters to different learning styles and helps in comprehensively covering the syllabus.

• Past Exam Papers: Essential for understanding the format and improving time management under exam conditions.
• Online Platforms: Khan Academy and BBC Bitesize provide interactive lessons and practice problems.
• Textbooks: Choose those endorsed by your exam board for syllabus-aligned content and exercises such as " Cambridge IGCSE™ Mathematics Core and Extended Coursebook with Digital Version " and " IGCSE Maths Edexcel Student Book ".
• Maths Tutoring Services: Offers customised support to tackle individual challenges. IGCSE Maths tutors are a great resource for achieving the top grade.
• Study Notes: High-quality, concise notes by TutorChase are invaluable for revising key concepts and formulas. Our GCSE Maths Q&A Revision Notes provide essential support for mastering the material.

Educational experts concur that a blend of these resources significantly boosts a student's ability to grasp complex mathematical principles and solve varied problems efficiently. Statistical evidence suggests that students who diversify their study materials, incorporating both digital and traditional formats, often outperform their peers in IGCSE Maths. Integrating detailed study notes for quick revision before exams can particularly enhance retention and understanding, making them a critical component of any effective study strategy.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Students often encounter specific hurdles in their IGCSE Maths preparation, but with the right strategies, these challenges can be effectively addressed.

• Conceptual Understanding: Many students struggle to grasp fundamental concepts. Overcoming this requires regular practice and seeking explanations from various resources until the concept is clear.
• Time Management: Finishing exams within the allotted time can be daunting. Practice under timed conditions and learn efficient problem-solving techniques to improve speed and accuracy.
• Exam Stress: High levels of anxiety can hamper performance. Employ stress-management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises and positive visualisation, to stay calm and focused.
• Resource Overload: The abundance of study materials can overwhelm students, making it difficult to focus. Select a few high-quality resources that match your learning style, and stick to them for a more focused approach.

Here's what Dr Zhen Shao , a lecturer at Oxford University has to say::

"IGCSE Maths has become quite popular over the years. We saw a significant increase of 28.2% in the entries for June 2023 compared to June 2022. More and more students are choosing it every year. With the right resources, time management and revision practices, students can surely ace this subject, even though it is ranked as the hardest of the IGCSEs."

Addressing each challenge with these tailored strategies can significantly enhance a student's confidence ability to perform well in IGCSE Maths. Combining regular practice with efficient study habits and stress management techniques is key to turning potential obstacles into opportunities for success.

What A-Levels can you take after IGCSE Maths?

Succeeding in IGCSE Maths opens up a plethora of A-Level pathways, catering to various interests and career aspirations. The choice of A-Level subjects post-IGCSE Maths is crucial for students planning to pursue higher education and professional careers in related fields.

• A-Level Maths and A-Level Further Maths : Crucial for those interested in mathematics, engineering, physics, and computer science.
• A-Level Physics , A-Level Chemistry , and A-Level Biology : Essential for aspiring professionals in medicine, pharmacy, environmental science, and research.
• A-Level Economics and A-Level Business Studies : Ideal for students targeting careers in commerce, finance, and business management.
• A-Level Computer Science : Provides a strong foundation for future work in software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis.

Statistics indicate that students who carefully select their A-Levels based on their IGCSE performance, especially in Maths, are more likely to excel in their chosen fields. Additionally, universities often look for strong A-Level results in subjects relevant to the degree program, making the transition from IGCSE Maths to A-Levels a pivotal step in a student’s academic journey.

Opportunities with IGCSE Maths

Achieving a commendable grade in IGCSE Maths paves the way for numerous educational and vocational avenues. This fundamental subject imparts critical skills, opening up a diverse range of opportunities.

Pie chart showing gender distribution across Edexcel IGCSE Maths in UK

Majors in Higher Education:

• Mathematics and Statistics: Direct progression to degrees focusing on mathematical theories, applications, and statistical analysis.
• Engineering: Prepares students for various engineering disciplines, requiring strong mathematical foundations.
• Economics and Finance: Offers a pathway to understanding economic theories, financial markets, and banking systems.
• Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology): Equips students with the analytical skills necessary for scientific research and experimentation.

Career Paths:

• Technology and IT: Utilising mathematical skills in software development, cybersecurity, and data science.
• Finance and Banking: Applying quantitative analysis in investment, risk management, and financial planning.
• Engineering and Manufacturing: Designing, analysing, and improving products and processes.
• Research and Development: Conducting studies and creating innovative solutions in various fields.

Skills Development:

• Analytical Skills: Enhancing the ability to dissect problems and devise effective solutions.
• Quantitative Reasoning: Applying numerical concepts to analyse and interpret real-world data.
• Critical Thinking: Evaluating situations, arguments, and data methodically.

Experts assert that the breadth of opportunities stemming from IGCSE Maths underscores its significance in both academic and career-oriented contexts. The subject not only lays a solid foundation for further studies in math-related fields but also fosters a versatile skill set, making it invaluable for navigating the challenges of the modern workplace.

Conclusion on IGCSE Maths

IGCSE Maths is a key subject that opens many doors for students. It helps build important skills like problem-solving and thinking clearly about numbers, which are useful both in school and in life. Experts say that doing well in IGCSE Maths can make it easier to study more advanced topics later on and can lead to good job opportunities. This course is recognised around the world, making it a great choice for students who want to prepare for the future. In short, IGCSE Maths is not just about learning maths; it's about setting yourself up for success in whatever you choose to do next.

What type of math is in IGCSE?

IGCSE Maths includes a variety of mathematical topics designed to provide students with a broad understanding of mathematics. It covers areas such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, and probability . This range ensures students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, equipping them with the ability to apply mathematical concepts in real-world situations. The curriculum is structured to cater to different ability levels, offering both core and extended papers to accommodate students' varying mathematical competencies.

Is IGCSE further pure maths hard?

IGCSE Further Pure Maths is considered hard due to its advanced content, including topics not covered in the standard IGCSE Maths syllabus such as complex numbers, matrices, and further calculus. It requires a strong mathematical foundation and a higher level of abstract thinking. However, with consistent study, a good understanding of the basic IGCSE Maths concepts, and effective exam preparation strategies, students can successfully overcome its difficulties. Teachers and students often recommend this course for those who are particularly strong in maths and interested in pursuing mathematics or related fields at a higher level.

What is the passing grade for IGCSE math?

The passing grade for IGCSE Maths varies by examination board, but generally, a grade C is considered a pass. In the Cambridge IGCSE, for example, grades are awarded from A* to G, with A* being the highest and G the lowest. To pass, students need to achieve at least a grade C, which demonstrates a satisfactory level of understanding. It's important to note that some institutions and further study programs may require higher grades for progression, often looking for A* to B grades for more competitive courses or subjects.

Is calculator allowed in IGCSE math?

Yes, calculators are allowed in IGCSE Maths exams , but there are specific guidelines about the types that can be used. For most exam boards, scientific calculators are permitted, and they can be used in all papers except for those specifically designed to test non-calculator skills. It's important for students to familiarise themselves with their calculator's functions and to ensure it meets the exam board's requirements. Students should also be prepared to tackle questions without a calculator, as certain sections of the exam will test their ability to perform calculations manually.

Is it possible to get 100 in IGCSE?

Achieving a perfect score in IGCSE, which would be equivalent to 100%, is highly challenging due to the exam's rigorous standards and the subjective nature of some assessment criteria. While IGCSE grades are typically reported as letter grades (A* to G), aiming for a high level of excellence across all exam components is essential for reaching the top grade of A*. Absolute perfection in numerical terms is difficult due to the varied question types and the requirement for examiners to interpret answers, especially in subjects requiring extended responses. However, striving for the highest marks possible in each section will position you well for achieving the coveted A* grade.

Is IGCSE maths easier than GCSE maths?

The comparison between IGCSE Maths and GCSE Maths often leads to the conclusion that IGCSE Maths is slightly more challenging . This is partly because IGCSE Maths traditionally covers a broader range of topics, including some that are considered more advanced, without the inclusion of coursework. The GCSE Maths curriculum was revised to become more rigorous, reducing the coursework component and incorporating some content from A-Level studies. Despite these changes, IGCSE Maths still retains its reputation for being more comprehensive, focusing heavily on examination performance. However, both qualifications are respected and designed to prepare students for further education and career paths in mathematically related fields.

How long is IGCSE maths?

The IGCSE Maths exam length varies depending on the examination board and whether the student is taking the Core or Extended curriculum. Typically, students are required to complete two papers, each lasting about two hours . For example, the Cambridge IGCSE Maths exam includes two papers for both Core and Extended levels, with each paper being 2 hours long. This structure is designed to comprehensively test the students' knowledge and skills across the different areas of the maths syllabus, ensuring a thorough assessment of their capabilities.

What is the hardest part of IGCSE maths?

The hardest part of IGCSE Maths often varies among students, but topics like trigonometry, calculus, and algebra tend to be challenging for many. Trigonometry involves understanding and applying various formulas to solve problems, which can be complex. Calculus, introduced in the Extended curriculum, requires a good grasp of differentiation and integration. Algebraic problems, especially those involving solving equations and manipulating expressions, also pose difficulties. These areas demand a solid understanding of foundational concepts and the ability to apply these concepts in various contexts. Success in overcoming these challenges comes from focused practice, seeking help when needed, and developing a strong problem-solving strategy.

Can I retake IGCSE Maths if I fail?

Yes, you can retake IGCSE Maths if you fail . The Cambridge International examination board provides specific guidelines for retake entries, which include sitting the same syllabus in the next exam series and meeting the retake entry deadline. It's important to declare an entry as a retake upon submission to avoid late entry fees. Retake opportunities are available to help students improve their grades and meet their academic goals.

How long should I prepare for the IGCSE Maths exam?

For IGCSE Maths exam preparation, it's advisable to start revising at least 6 months in advance . This timeline allows for thorough coverage of the syllabus, mastering complex concepts, and ample practice with past papers. Regular, focused study sessions, utilizing a variety of resources like textbooks, online platforms, and tutoring services, can significantly enhance understanding and exam performance. Tailoring your revision plan to address weaker areas while reinforcing strengths is crucial for achieving top grades.

Can IGCSE Maths self-study be effective?

Self-study for IGCSE Maths can be effective with the right approach and resources . It's important to have a structured study plan, understand the syllabus, and use various study materials, including textbooks and online platforms. Practicing past papers and using online resources tailored to the IGCSE Maths curriculum can also enhance your learning. However, the success of self-study depends on your discipline, motivation, and the ability to seek help when needed.

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Written by: Dr Rahil Sachak-Patwa

Rahil spent ten years working as private tutor, teaching students for GCSEs, A-Levels, and university admissions. During his PhD he published papers on modelling infectious disease epidemics and was a tutor to undergraduate and masters students for mathematics courses.

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Mathematics IGCSE

The Maths IGCSE course gently guides the student through basic mathematical skills, progressing on to more advanced material as the student’s skills and abilities develop. Each lesson begins with a set of clearly stated objectives and an explanation of its place in the overall programme of study. Effective learning is encouraged through frequent activities and self-assessment questions.

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IGCSE Maths provides an excellent foundation for:

• Students who want to continue their Maths studies at AS and A Level and beyond
• Students who need mathematics to complement other subjects
• Students who need a final qualification in mathematics

The course enables students to:

• Develop their knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques
• Acquire a foundation of mathematical skills for further study in the subject or related areas
• Enjoy using and applying mathematical techniques and concepts to become confident in using Mathematics to solve problems
• Appreciate the importance of mathematics in society, employment and study

Oxford Open Learning’s Maths IGCSE course is designed to prepare students for the Edexcel IGCSE in Mathematics (Specification A, 4MA1) for examination in June 2022 or later years.

It is examined on two levels and you will have the choice of studying for the “F” foundation level where the highest grade is 5 or the “H” higher tier where you can get up to grade 9.

In both foundation and higher tier, assessment comprises two papers marked by Edexcel. Each paper is assessed by a two-hour written examination and each paper is worth 50%.

Free Access to Online Resources

Oxford Open Learning has teamed up with the award winning Twig video site to provide access to online maths resources, specifically filmed to support GCSE level studies. Each maths IGCSE student will get a free login to be able to view the entire Twig world range incorporating thousands of short educational videos. Through out your course you will be referred to specific videos to support your learning and offer greater context to your studies. An annual subscription to Twig world videos would normally cost £99.

Online Course or Paper Based? Additional Tuition? It’s your choice!

All of our GCSE English students receive:

• Traditional printed learning materials
• Access to our online resources with on-the-go access to all your regular lessons
• The support of a fully qualified teacher online and by phone
• You will have the same tutor through your course which will enable you to build a good working relationship. They generally work some evenings and weekends as well as through the holidays.
• You also have the choice of purchasing extra one to one tutor time on an ad hoc basis for those few occasions when you may feel you need it.

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Maths IGCSE FAQs

What's the difference between gcse and igcse maths, how much does the maths igcse course cost.

The course costs £375.  Click for full details of The Oxford Open Learning Trusts GCSE and international GCSE prices

What is Twig World?

Why should i choose to study oxford open learning.

Oxford Open Learning is a long-established educational trust. We take pride in;

• treating every student as an individual
• our friendly and knowledgeable customer service team
• the quality of our courses
• we’re rated ‘Excellent’ on  Trustpilot  by students who have studied with us.
• we provide online  and  printed resources so you can study your way – other providers do not give you that choice.
• we make studying your online course easy with our flexible schedule, tutor support, and interest-free payment plan.

Oxford Open Learning is a not-for-profit trust, so you can be sure that your course fees are spent on either your education and tuition or on improving our courses.

Press the “apply now button”  and you will find that we certainly do not employ any high-pressure sales techniques. We want you to be comfortable with your choice before committing to a course and so we encourage questions and discussion before you start your journey with us.

Once you are studying, our friendly and experienced staff are always available to give help and advice in person on the ‘phone or by email if you prefer.

When can I enrol?

You can enrol any time you like, the earlier the better. The important thing to think about is when you wish to sit your exam and to give yourself plenty of time to work through your materials and revise successfully. Our cut-off dates for enrolment are usually November for the following summer exams or March for November sittings.

There are November exams for this subject and the deadline for booking them is the 4th October.

Once you have enrolled, you will get immediate access to your course online and your printed course materials will arrive a few days later.

How, when and where will I book my exams?

All the information you need to book your exam with an exam centre can be found in the Student Information section of our website. Here you will find

• detailed instructions on what to do and how to approach exam officers if there is no online booking system
• the entry codes needed to book exams
• our map of examination centres that have helped our students in recent years.

Our experienced Advisers are also always available with a wealth of knowledge about how to locate exam centres and book exams.

OOL students have the advantage of not being tied to sitting with any one centre or organisation and several will offer discounts to our students.  Tutors & Exams  is one of the biggest operators. They have nine exam venues across the UK in; Birmingham, Bolton, Coventry, Doncaster, High Wycombe, Romford, St Neots, Taunton and Wimbledon.

Our map also shows plenty of other centres that are also very likely to help our students, they may also offer a discount and they could be cheaper. If you have the time it is always worth shopping around.

You should start to look for an exam centre as soon as possible after enrolling and preferably in the Autumn term before your summer exam. There is a lot of demand for Private Exam places and many centres are already booked up well before Christmas. The AQA Exam Board’s final date for booking summer exams without incurring late entry fees is the  21st of   February , but do not expect to find many places willing to help at this late stage.

Resit exams are available in November but your choice of centres is likely to be more limited and you will need to confirm arrangements well before the start of the summer holidays.

How do I enrol?

First fill out our website application form giving as much relevant information as possible and at this stage you have not committed to anything. Once the application has been received and assessed by our Admissions Department, a Student Adviser will contact you to discuss the application, answer any more questions you may have and confirm your subject selections and cost before you get started.

We want you to be comfortable with your choice and clear about the way forward, therefore we do not employ any high pressure sales techniques and you are free to take your time before you commit to investing in any study programme.

Once you are ready, you can pay your Student Adviser in full or arrange to pay in instalments.

Is there an age limit?

There is no upper age limit to studying for a GCSE or IG and we get students who are retired and in their 70’s even 80’s. They often just want to study to keep their brains active and many don’t actually go the expense of sitting the exam. Our tutors love what they can learn from these students

However, most students have just started work and need an extra GCSE or IG to progress or want to switch to a job which requires a qualification they do not have.

If you are under 18 years old then you need our sister company Oxford Home Schooling.

I am an adult, do I have to sit my exam with children?

Not surprisingly, many people find the idea of sitting a GCSE or IG with a group of 16 year olds very intimidating but you are quite likely not to be alone.

There is no denying that it can be uncomfortable for a grown up to sit in what is likely to be the cheapest place; a school. Also because of safeguarding, many schools will no longer allow unknown grown ups in to their premises, but there are other options.

The private commercial exam centres all allow grown ups to sit and consequently although you will be in the minority, you will probably not be the only one. Some private schools are still happy to accommodate adults and they will be likely to have the most experienced exam officers.

Exams are not easy for anyone but at least as an adult you will probably have done it before and have the life experience not to panic.

Should I enter for foundation or higher tier?

Whether you enter for the foundation or the higher tier is largely a matter of personal choice and depends on your own aspirations. Many Oxford Open Learning students only need to obtain a Grade 4 or 5, for example, to get onto a further education course. If this is the case and you have no love of Maths then you should enter for the Foundation papers. The questions are more straightforward but they do require accurate answers.

If you want to go on and study a course which requires the use of maths, you will probably wish to study the higher tier.

It is worth noting that the Oxford Open Learning Trust, like most educational institutions, only accept students onto a Maths A level course if the student has completed the GCSE at higher tier.

I hated Maths at school, how will I cope?

We often find that with maturity and some life experience, even students who could not cope with Maths at school are able to face studying it at home.

You are not under time pressure, you have a tutor to help and there are now thousands of examples on the internet to help explain mathematical problems.

Things that were a complete mystery at school, percentages is often a good example, can suddenly become clear and a minor victory will soon give you the confidence to believe you can do it.

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What our students think….

As a police officer coming towards the end of my career, I needed to have a Maths GCSE to enable me to apply to be a teacher. I didn’t do too well in this subject at school but when the pack came it seemed to be tailor made for a beginner like me. I got through the course with the understanding and patient help of my tutor John and passed my GCSE to the required standard. I start as a student teacher in September and the Maths GCSE was the final piece of the jigsaw I needed. I had to study at my own pace and Oxford Open Learning home study allowed me to do just that. Steven Smith, Maths G, grade C, summer 2014

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Videos - IGCSE Mathematics 0580

Topic outline.

• Select activity Cambridge IGCSE™ Mathematics 0580 Videos Cambridge IGCSE™ Mathematics 0580 Videos
• Teaching Packs
• Interactive tools
• Select activity 1 Number 1 Number

• Select activity 2 Algebra and graphs 2  Algebra and graphs

• Select activity 3 Coordinate geometry 3  Coordinate geometry

• Select activity 4 Geometry 4  Geometry

• Select activity 5 Mensuration 5  Mensuration

• Select activity 6 Trigonometry 6  Trigonometry

• Select activity 7 Vectors and transformations 7  Vectors and transformations

• Select activity 8 Probability 8  Probability

Programmes & Qualifications

Cambridge igcse international mathematics (0607).

• Syllabus overview

Cambridge IGCSE International Mathematics encourages learners to develop their mathematical ability as a key life skill, and as a strong basis for further study of mathematics or to support skills in other subjects.

The syllabus:

• develops learners' competency, confidence, and fluency in their use of techniques with and without the use of a graphic display calculator, cultivating mathematical understanding
• develops learners’ feel for quantity, patterns, and relationships, encouraging learners’ reasoning and analytical skills
• places a strong emphasis on solving problems in mathematics and real-life contexts
• promotes appropriate presentation and interpretation of results, encouraging learners’ understanding of how to communicate and reason mathematically
• develops learners’ skills in mathematical investigations and/or modelling, building conceptual understanding as well as ability to apply techniques and use approaches
• is tiered to allow candidates of all abilities to achieve and progress in their mathematical studies.

The syllabus year refers to the year in which the examination will be taken.

• -->2023-2024 Syllabus update (PDF, 128KB)
• -->2025-2027 Syllabus update (PDF, 201KB)

Syllabus updates

The subject content has been updated with more examples included to better exemplify the depth of required teaching.

The assessment has been amended to ensure more balance between testing of calculator and non-calculator skills.

The changes have been made in line with other Cambridge Upper Secondary Mathematics qualifications, supporting those teaching more than one syllabus at this level.

For full details of the changes, please see the 2025-2027 syllabus above or download our factsheet for an overview.

Coming soon

We are developing a comprehensive range of resources to help teachers deliver this updated syllabus.

We aim to provide a scheme of work and other relevant classroom resources. Example Candidate Responses will be available following the first examination in 2025. Visit the School Support Hub from June 2025 onwards for details.

Endorsed resources

View the latest resources that are being developed by our Endorsement Partners for the Cambridge IGCSE International Mathematics syllabus (0607).

Cambridge IGCSE™ International Mathematics Third Edition (Hodder Education)

Build students’ confidence in using technology to develop mathematical skills. A team of experienced authors offer advice on putting theory into practice of mathematical techniques covered in the latest Cambridge IGCSE™ International Mathematics syllabus (0607).

Read more on the Hodder Education website

Cambridge IGCSE™ International Mathematics 1st Edition (Cambridge University Press)

Develop your students’ mathematical knowledge with a wealth of practice opportunities, investigations, examples of how maths is used in real-life contexts, discussions and our digital teaching and learning platform, Cambridge Online Mathematics.

Read more on the Cambridge University Press website

Important notices

For some subjects, we publish grade descriptions to help understand the level of performance candidates’ grades represent.

We paused the publication of grade descriptions in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the temporary changes to the awarding standard in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

As the awarding standard has now returned to the pre-pandemic standard, we are working to produce up-to-date grade descriptions for most of our general qualifications. These will be based on the awarding standards in place from June 2023 onwards.

School Support Hub

Teachers at registered Cambridge schools can unlock over 30 000 teaching and learning resources to help plan and deliver Cambridge programmes and qualifications, including Schemes of work, Example candidate responses, Past papers, Specimen paper answers, as well as digital and multimedia resources.

Schemes of work

Example responses, past papers, specimen paper answers.

Register your interest in becoming a Cambridge School

Stay up to date

Sign up for updates about changes to the syllabuses you teach

• Past papers, examiner reports and specimen papers
• Published resources