Edexcel IGCSE History specification (4HI1)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE History exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel IGCSE History specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel IGCSE History (4HI1) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
The Edexcel International GCSE in History enables learners to explore significant global events and societies through a diverse and flexible structure. Students develop knowledge of key historical periods, engage in enquiry and interpretation, and learn to critically assess sources and differing viewpoints. With no compulsory topics or forbidden combinations, the course promotes analytical thinking and historical judgement. It supports progression to A Level and fosters skills in argumentation, research, and independent learning through a rich selection of depth, investigation, and breadth studies:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Subject content breakdown
Paper 1: Depth Studies
- Choose two of the following:
- 1. The French Revolution, c1780–99
- 2. Development of a nation: unification of Italy, 1848–70
- 3. Germany: development of dictatorship, 1918–45
- 4. Colonial rule and the nationalist challenge in India, 1919–47
- 5. Dictatorship and conflict in the USSR, 1924–53
- 6. A world divided: superpower relations, 1943–72
- 7. A divided union: civil rights in the USA, 1945–74
- 8. South Africa: from union to the end of apartheid, 1948–94
Paper 2: Investigation and Breadth Studies
Choose one historical investigation from:
- A1. The origins and course of the First World War, 1905–18
- A2. Russia and the Soviet Union, 1905–24
- A3. The USA, 1918–41
- A4. The Vietnam Conflict, 1945–75
- A5. East Germany, 1958–90
Choose one breadth study from:
- B1. America: from new nation to divided union, 1783–1877
- B2. Changes in medicine, c1848–c1948
- B3. Japan in transformation, 1853–1945
- B4. China: conflict, crisis and change, 1900–89
- B5. The changing role of international organisations, 1919–c2011
- B6. The changing nature of warfare and international conflict, 1919–2011
- B7. The Middle East: conflict, crisis and change, 1917–2012
- B8. Diversity, rights and equality in Britain, 1914–2010:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Assessment structure
Paper 1: Depth Studies
- 1 hour 30 minutes; 60 marks; 50% of the qualification.
- Answer two essay-based questions: one per selected depth study.
- Assesses AO1, AO2 and AO4.
Paper 2: Investigation and Breadth Studies
- 1 hour 30 minutes; 60 marks; 50% of the qualification.
- Section A: One question on the selected historical investigation.
- Section B: One question on the chosen breadth study in change.
- Assesses AO1, AO2, AO3 and AO4.
Assessment Objectives
- AO1: Knowledge and understanding – 34%
- AO2: Analysis and judgement – 36%
- AO3: Source use – 15%
- AO4: Interpretations – 15%
Grading
- 9–1 scale.
- Linear structure: all exams sat in the same series.
- First examined in June 2019; B8 examined from June 2023:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel IGCSE History isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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