What is IGCSE Science? Overview for Students

IGCSE Science can mean a couple of different things, and people aren’t always sure which version applies to them. By reading this guide, you will have a firm understanding of the different types of IGCSE Science available (Combined, Coordinated and Triple) and the key differences between the Core and the Extended tiers. 

You will also know how the exams work and how choosing the different options might affect your future academic career.

By the end, you will be in no doubt about what to expect from each course and be better informed about which pathway is the best for you.

Key Takeaways

• Every IGCSE course includes Chemistry, Physics and Biology, but the depth and number of exams vary from course to course.

• Your choices are Combined Science, Coordinated Science (Double) or the Separate Sciences (Triple) 

• The choice between Core and Extended tiers affects the possible maximum grade you could get

What Does IGCSE Science Include?

Regardless of the option you go for, all IGCSE courses cover the main three sciences:

• Biology – living organisms, health, and ecosystems

• Chemistry – matter, reactions, and elements

• Physics – forces, energy, and motion

The difference between the courses centres on the depth and detail of what you will study, rather than the content matter. There will also be differences in the number of exams you will take. 

The Different Types of IGCSE Science Courses

There are three main IGCSE Science pathways for you to choose from: 

1. Combined Science (Single Award or Double Award)

• Covers Biology, Chemistry, and Physics but in less detail than the other pathways.

• Can be worth one or two IGCSEs, depending on the exam board.

• Ideal for students who want to pass a Science IGCSE but don’t plan to specialise in a science later on.

• Fewer exams and less content than other routes.

2. Coordinated (Double) Science

• Sometimes called Double Award Science or Dual Science.

• Covers more content than Combined Science but slightly less than Triple.

• Worth two IGCSEs.

• Designed for students who are capable at science but don’t want the full load of three separate courses.

3. Separate Sciences (Triple Science)

• You study Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as separate, individual subjects.

• Worth three IGCSEs (one for each science).

• Covers the most detailed content of all the pathways and includes more exams.

• Recommended for students interested in pursuing STEM subjects at A Level or university.

Core vs Extended: What’s the Difference?

Most IGCSE exam boards offer different entry tiers to match different ability levels. These tiers are known as Core and Extended.

The decision over which tier to choose is usually taken after mock exam results. 

How Is IGCSE Science Assessed?

IGCSE Science courses vary from board to board, but most are exam-only, meaning there’s no coursework.

They normally include:

• Multiple-choice papers – to test understanding of key facts.

• Structured and short-answer questions – to assess understanding and explanation skills.

• Alternative to Practical (ATP) or Practical Test – to evaluate understanding of lab experiments and data interpretation.

There will be questions on Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, but the number of exams you will sit will depend on your chosen pathway (Combined, Coordinated, or Triple).

Which Exam Boards Offer IGCSE Science?

How Do IGCSE Science Grades Work?

Firstly, whether your grade is on the letter scale (A* to G) or number scale (9 to 1) depends on the exam board. Cambridge uses the letter scale, whereas Edexcel and OxfordAQA use the number scale. In the letter scale, a C grade is considered a “standard pass” whereas a grade 4 is a “standard pass” in the number scale. A grade 5 or a B is considered a “strong pass”. 

If you are studying the separate sciences, you will receive a grade each for Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Combined Science or Double Award students receive an award worth two IGCSE that will be presented as BB or 7-7 for example.

If you have been entered for the Core tier, the highest grade you can achieve would be CC or 4-4. 

Why Choose IGCSE Science?

IGCSE Science is considered one of the most valuable IGCSE subjects worldwide.

• It gives you a globally recognised qualification in a subject that is respected and valued by universities and colleges.

• Excellent preparation for A Level Science, IB, or BTEC courses.

• Forms a strong foundation for careers in medicine, engineering, environmental science, business, and more.

How to Decide Which Pathway Is Right for You

The right pathway for you depends on your confidence and your aptitude in science and your future goals.

• If you are passionate about science and intend to study one or more of the sciences at A Level, choosing Triple Science would be a sensible route.

• If you want to show future employers and colleges that you have a solid science background but don’t want to overwhelm yourself or study science in the future, it is probably wise to choose Coordinated or Double Science.

• If you want to get an IGCSE in Science but with the lightest possible load as your academic priorities lie elsewhere, Combined Science might be the way to go. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Combined Science Easier Than Triple Science?

In short, yes. Combined Science covers fewer topics and in less detail. Triple Science includes all three subjects separately and has exams for each separate subject. It also goes deeper and into more detail so it’s undeniably more demanding.

Can I Still Take A Levels If I Do Combined Science?

Yes, but you have to earn a good grade in Combined Science for most sixth forms to let you take an A Level in a science subject. A good grade in this context means a 6 or a B or above. Triple Science is definitely the best preparation for the rigours of A Level though.

Is There Any Coursework in IGCSE Science?

No. There are practical activities in lessons, and your knowledge and understanding of these will be tested through exam questions - especially the Alternative to Practical Papers.

Final Thoughts

Science is a fascinating subject that helps you understand how the world works. Whichever IGCSE pathway you choose, you will learn invaluable skills in analysis, reasoning and scientific thinking that will help you regardless of your future career.

Choosing the best pathway is about choosing the right one for your circumstances. Your teachers will have helped many other students with this decision so it is always a good idea to talk to them. That way, you can embark on your IGCSE journey knowing you have chosen best pathway for you and your future.