--- title: Zones 3 & 5 IGCSE | Cambridge University Press & Assessment description: Find out how we are supporting teachers, parents and students in zones 3 and 5 as they transition from O Level to Cambridge IGCSE qualifications. --- [![Cambridge](https://international.cambridge.org/hubfs/Master%20-%20Logos/Cambridge.png)](https://cambridgeinternational.org) ![International Education](https://international.cambridge.org/hubfs/Master%20-%20Logos/Cambridge_International_Education.png) # Moving to Cambridge IGCSE ## A guide for centres in Administrative Zones 3 and 5 Cambridge IGCSE is the world’s most popular international qualification for 14 to 16 year olds. It was created by Cambridge over 30 years ago and is taught by over 6000 schools in over 150 countries. Leading universities and employers around the world accept Cambridge IGCSE as evidence of academic ability.  Cambridge IGCSE builds on the strengths of the Cambridge O Level.  The two qualifications are of equal rigour, and both are ideal preparation for the  next stage of education, whether that’s Cambridge International AS & A Level, other international curricula, or local qualifications. Both qualifications also support students entering employment.   ## Available in 70 subjects Cambridge IGCSE offers students the flexibility to choose from over 70 subjects in any combination, including 30 languages. [Discover the full range of Cambridge IGCSE subjects](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-upper-secondary/cambridge-igcse/subjects/) The timeline below is an overview of the phased approach we are taking to transitioning centres in administrative zones 3 and 5 to Cambridge IGCSEs.​   There may be changes to this timeline as we transition to suitable Cambridge IGCSE alternatives. Check back regularly for more information on future phases, additional training and support. ### 2028 #### Phase 1 first assessment - The subjects listed below will be assessed as Cambridge IGCSEs only from 2028. - The content and assessment structure in these subjects will be identical to the O Levels that you are currently teaching. - Candidates taking exams in these subjects in 2028 will be eligible for a Cambridge IGCSE certificate graded A\*-G. | **O Level Syllabus Code** | **Syllabus Name** | **Action for zones 3 & 5 from June 2028 onwards** | | --- | --- | --- | | 7707 | [Accounting](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-accounting-0452/) | For first assessment in June 2028, switch entry to Cambridge IGCSE syllabus [0452](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-accounting-0452/) | | 4037 | [Additional Mathematics](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-mathematics-additional-0606/) | For first assessment in June 2028, switch entry to Cambridge IGCSE syllabus [0606](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-mathematics-additional-0606/) | | 7081 | [Business](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-business-0264/) (previously Business Studies 7115) | For first assessment in June 2028, switch entry to Cambridge IGCSE syllabus [0264](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-business-0264/) | | 2281 | [Economics](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-economics-0455/) | For first assessment in June 2028, switch entry to Cambridge IGCSE syllabus [0455](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-economics-0455/) | | 2010 | [Literature in English](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/english-literature-0475/) | For first assessment in June 2028, switch entry to Cambridge IGCSE syllabus [0475](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/english-literature-0475/) | ### 2029 #### Phase 2 first assessment | **O Level Syllabus Code** | **Syllabus Name** | **Action for zones 3 & 5 from June 2029 onwardsonwards** | | --- | --- | --- | | 5014 | [Environmental Management](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-o-level-environmental-management-5014/) | For first assessment in June 2029, switch entry to Cambridge IGCSE syllabus [0680](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-environmental-management-0680/) | | 6065 | [Food and Nutrition](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-o-level-food-and-nutrition-6065/) | For first assessment in June 2029, switch entry to Cambridge IGCSE syllabus [0648](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-food-and-nutrition-0648/) | | 4024 | [Mathematics D](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-o-level-mathematics-d-4024/) | For first assessment in June 2029, switch entry to Cambridge IGCSE syllabus [0580](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-igcse-mathematics-0580/) | ![Brunei grade threshold](https://international.cambridge.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Landing%20Pages/Brunei%20IGCSE/Brunei%20grade%20threshold.png?width=1080&height=1200&name=Brunei%20grade%20threshold.png "Brunei grade threshold") ## How Cambridge IGCSE is graded While grading is broadly aligned between Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge O Level, Cambridge IGCSE offers eight grades: A\*-G, whereas Cambridge O Level offers six grades: A\*-E. The two additional grades at Cambridge IGCSE allows us to report achievement with more differentiation at the top and the bottom of the grades, and with more grades at the bottom, more students are recognised for engaging in 2 years of study.  ![Laughing teacher laptop cropped](https://international.cambridge.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Laughing%20teacher%20laptop%20cropped.jpg?width=580&height=344&name=Laughing%20teacher%20laptop%20cropped.jpg "Laughing teacher laptop cropped") ## Support for teachers Our teaching and learning materials help you plan and deliver the Cambridge IGCSE programme. They suit a wide range of teaching methods and include:  - Teaching schemes of work and lesson plans - Textbooks and published resources - Example candidate responses (standards booklets) - Mapping documents to explain how the resources support teaching - Exam preparation materials. The exam preparation materials include mark schemes, examiner reports, previous examination papers and results statistics by grade and subject. This means teachers can identify learner strengths and weakness and provide valuable feedback before final assessment.  Our [Support for Schools brochure](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/Images/417125-cambridge-school-support-brochure.pdf) explains our educational resources in more detail.  Teachers in zones 3 and 5 will be able to access all of our Cambridge IGCSE materials on the [School Support Hub](https://schoolsupporthub.cambridgeinternational.org/), and will also be able to participate in trials of our Digital Mock examinations. 150 Countries offer Cambridge IGCSE 6,000 Schools worldwide teach Cambridge IGCSE 38 Years celebrating Cambridge IGCSE ## Frequently asked questions About the transition **Why is Cambridge making this change?** - Cambridge is introducing a phased transition from selected Cambridge O Level qualifications to equivalent Cambridge IGCSE qualifications in administrative zones 3 and 5. - Cambridge IGCSE is our leading and most widely adopted international qualification for learners aged 14 to 16. It is widely recognised by universities and employers around the world and is supported by an extensive range of teaching, learning and professional development resources. This transition will streamline and strengthen our qualification offer while continuing to provide schools with internationally recognised qualifications and high-quality support. **When will my school transition to Cambridge IGCSE?** - The transition will take place in phases. The first phase applies to selected subjects from the June 2029 examination series. We will communicate key dates and subject-specific information well in advance of each phase. **Do I need to do anything now?** - No. We will contact affected schools with further information and guidance before each phase of the transition. In the meantime, we recommend bookmarking this webpage and checking back regularly for the latest updates. **What does this transition mean for the future of Cambridge O Level qualifications?** - As part of the ongoing development of our international qualification portfolio, we are transitioning selected Cambridge O Level qualifications to Cambridge IGCSE in administrative zones 3 and 5. Cambridge O Level continues to play an important role in specific local contexts. We will continue to run O Levels in administrative zone 4 and continue to monitor local requirements and preferences. Teaching and learning **Do I need to change what I teach or buy new resources?** - Not for the first phase of transition. The Cambridge O Level and Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses and assessments included in phase 1 are identical, as reflected in the titles on the front covers of all resources. As the transition continues, we will advise schools how closely O Level resources match what will be needed for the teaching and learning of Cambridge IGCSE. In most subjects, there is considerable overlap. - The School Support Hub is also available for Cambridge professional development and subject-specific guidance. - To keep up to date with individual syllabus changes in future, we recommend signing up to the [What’s new newsletter](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/news/whats-new/sign-up-for-our-syllabus-updates/). **What support will be available to schools during the transition?** - We are committed to supporting schools throughout the transition. - Schools will have access to guidance, teaching and learning resources, professional development and regular communications to help them prepare for each phase of the transition. We will continue to share updates as further phases are confirmed. **What opportunities does Cambridge IGCSE offer for my school and learners?** - In addition to a wide range of language syllabuses, Cambridge IGCSE offers subjects including Agriculture, Drama, Physical Education and Travel & Tourism. See the full list of [Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-upper-secondary/cambridge-igcse/subjects/index.aspx) for more information. Cambridge IGCSE **Do I need to change what I teach or buy new resources?** - Cambridge IGCSE is our leading international qualification for learners aged 14 to 16 and is taught by more than 6,000 schools in over 150 countries worldwide. As our most widely taught international qualification, it is recognised by leading universities and employers around the world. - Schools choosing Cambridge IGCSE benefit from: - an extensive range of teaching and learning resources, including schemes of work, lesson plans, specimen papers and examiner reports - a wide programme of professional development to support teachers throughout their careers - access to a global community of Cambridge schools and educators - a broad choice of syllabuses and subject combinations - a broad grading scale (A\*–G), providing recognition of learner achievement across the full ability range. - As Cambridge continues to develop its international qualification offer, Cambridge IGCSE also provides access to an expanding range of assessment models and subjects, helping schools meet the needs of their learners now and in the future. Recognition and standards **Will universities recognise Cambridge IGCSE in the same way?** - Yes; as a global qualification that has been offered for almost 40 years, it is well-known and widely recognised. International GCSEs are aligned to the standard of GCSEs taken in England. - Cambridge IGCSE is recognised by leading universities and employers around the world as evidence of academic achievement and preparation for further study. **Will the standard of the qualification remain the same?** - Yes. Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge O Level are directly comparable Level 2 qualifications. **Are Cambridge IGCSE assessments more difficult than Cambridge O Level assessments?** - No. Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge O Level are directly comparable qualifications. **What grading scale will Cambridge IGCSE use?** - Cambridge IGCSE uses grades A\* to G. Assessment and qualification structure **Will examination entry processes change?** - Schools will continue to make examination entries through Cambridge International Direct. - Where qualification codes change as part of the transition, we will provide guidance well in advance of the relevant examination series. **Will learners need to sit different examinations?** - In the first phase of the transition, the syllabus content and assessments of Cambridge IGCSE and O Level are identical. The only change is the qualification name and syllabus code. **Can learners take Cambridge O Level and Cambridge IGCSE in the same examination series?** - Yes, provided they are in different subjects. - Learners cannot enter for both the Cambridge O Level and Cambridge IGCSE version of the same subject in the same examination series. **What is tiering?** - Some Cambridge IGCSE mathematics and science syllabuses offer Core and Extended entry options. Details are available on the relevant [syllabus pages](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-upper-secondary/cambridge-igcse/subjects/index.aspx). - Core candidates can achieve grades C to G. Extended candidates can achieve grades A\* to E. If a student is securely in the ‘middle’ of the range, only the Extended tier will offer the grades the student may be capable of achieving. Students are not able to achieve above a C for their syllabus grade if they are entered for the Core curriculum. **Are all Cambridge IGCSE subjects coursework-based?** - No. Most Cambridge IGCSE subjects are assessed by examination. Some subjects include coursework or offer coursework as an optional assessment route. Details for each subject are available in the relevant [syllabus](https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/cambridge-upper-secondary/cambridge-igcse/subjects/index.aspx). Subject-specific questions [**Further information about Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580)**](https://international.cambridge.org/hubfs/Z3%265_Phase2_IGCSE%20Mathematics%20v3.dotx?hsLang=en) ### Further questions? Submit your questions using the button below and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. [Ask a question](mailto:support@cambridgeinternational.zendesk.com) [![Cambridge University Press & Assessment](https://international.cambridge.org/hubfs/Master%20-%20Logos/cupa.png)](https://cambridgeinternational.org) Follow us online © Cambridge University Press & Assessment [Privacy](https://www.cambridge.org/legal/privacy)