IGCSE Certificates: What Students Need to Know

Just finished your IGCSE exams and waiting for your results? Or maybe you’ve already got your grades and are wondering when your official certificates will arrive? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. 

Many students aren’t sure what IGCSE certificates actually are, how they’re used, or what to do if they get lost. This guide breaks it all down so you know exactly what to expect and how to keep your certificates safe for the future.

Key Takeaways

• IGCSE certificates are your official proof of results: Issued by your exam boards, they list your subjects, grades, and candidate details. These certificates are widely recognised for further study, jobs, and university applications.

• You won’t get them straight after results day: Certificates are sent to schools and exam centres first, usually a few weeks or months later, before being passed on to you. Always check with your centre or school if you’re unsure when or how to collect yours.

• Keep your certificates safe, as replacements are limited: You usually can’t get a reprint of the original. Instead, exam boards provide a certified statement of results, which works as official proof if your certificate is lost or damaged.

What Is an IGCSE Certificate?

An IGCSE certificate is the official document that confirms the results you achieved in your IGCSE exams. It is issued by your exam board. The most common exam boards for IGCSEs are:

• Cambridge (CIE) (opens in a new tab)

• Pearson Edexcel (opens in a new tab)

• Oxford AQA (opens in a new tab)

Each subject you sit is listed on your certificate. Some boards issue one combined certificate with all your results on, while others may issue separate subject certificates for each subject. Either way, your certificate is the recognised proof of your qualifications. 

What Information Does an IGCSE Certificate Include?

Your certificate contains important details, including personal information and results. Most exam certificates will have the following:

• Your full name

• Centre number and candidate number

• Subjects taken

• Grades achieved in each subject

• Date the certificate was issued

• Name of the exam board

For all Pearson Edexcel (opens in a new tab) and  Oxford AQA (opens in a new tab) exam certificates, your results will be issued as 9–1 grades. For Cambridge (CIE) (opens in a new tab), your results may also use this scale or the A-G scale.

Confused about IGCSE grades? This article – What Are 'Good' IGCSE Grades? – explains the grading scales for the most common exam boards and what is considered a ‘good’ grade in each.

When Will I Receive My IGCSE Certificate?

You won’t get your certificate on results day. Instead, certificates are issued a few weeks to months later. Here’s the typical process for receiving your certificates:

1. Schools or exam centres receive certificates from the exam board first.

2. They then distribute them to students, often by collection or post. Private candidates should expect to hear directly from their exam centre about when and how to collect their certificates. 

If you’re unsure how to get your certificate, contact your school or exam centre to find out more.

How Are IGCSE Certificates Used?

Your certificate is more than just a keepsake – it’s your proof of achievement. You may need it for:

• Further study: Applying to A-Levels, IB, or other post-16 courses

• Job applications: Some employers ask for proof of your qualifications

• University applications: It is more common to be asked for copies of your certificates if you’re applying to UK universities as an international student or to universities outside the UK

Some institutions may ask to see original certificates, while others accept scanned copies or certified statements of results. Always check the requirements of the school, university, or employer you’re applying to.

Shortly after you receive your certificates, make sure to take photocopies or high-res pictures of them and keep the originals in a safe, memorable place.

What Happens If I Lose My IGCSE Certificate?

If your certificate is lost or damaged, don’t panic. You cannot usually get a reprint of the original, but you can request a replacement document. Exam boards may offer the following:

• A certified statement of results: An official document confirming your grades, accepted as proof by schools, universities, and employers.

• Replacement certificate services: Only available in limited cases and usually at a higher cost.

Check the official guidance from your exam board here:

• Cambridge International (opens in a new tab)

• Pearson Edexcel (opens in a new tab)

• Oxford AQA (opens in a new tab)

How Long Are IGCSE Certificates Valid For?

IGCSE certificates do not expire. Once you’ve achieved them, they remain valid for life.

Are There Digital Versions of IGCSE Certificates?

Some exam boards now offer digital certificates or online verification services. These allow you to share your results securely with schools, employers, or universities without needing to post your paper copy.

For example, Cambridge International offers a digital results verification service (opens in a new tab) that institutions can access directly. Always check with your exam board to see if this option is available to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need My IGCSE Certificate for University Applications?

If you sit your IGCSEs in the UK and apply to university via UCAS the same year or shortly after, the exam board will often share your results directly so you won’t have to show your certificate. 

However, if you're applying to universities outside the UK, it is common for them to request scanned copies or official proof of your IGCSE results. If you are applying to UK universities as an international student, you may also be asked to share copies of your certificates. 

How Do I Get a Replacement IGCSE Certificate?

This is often possible. Contact the exam board that issued your certificate to find out more. Most will provide a certified statement of results instead of a full reprint.

Can Employers Check My IGCSE Grades Without the Certificate?

Some employers can request verification directly from the exam board, but most will accept a scanned copy or a certified statement of results.

Is There a Fee for Replacing IGCSE Certificates?

Yes. Exam boards usually charge a fee for replacement documents or certified statements of results.

What’s the Difference Between a Statement of Results and a Certificate?

A certificate is the official document you receive after results are finalised. A statement of results is either an interim document (before certificates are issued) or a replacement provided if the certificate is lost.

Final Thoughts

Your IGCSE certificates are the official record of your hard work and academic achievement. They may be needed years down the line for further study, job applications, or university admissions, so make sure you keep them safe. 

If something happens to your certificate, your exam board may be able to provide replacement proof of your results. These certificates are more than just paperwork – they are your passport to the next stage of your education and career.

Looking to boost your IGCSE grades? Explore Save My Exams’ IGCSE revision resources, including revision notes, exam questions, past papers, mock exams and more. 

Sources

Cambridge (CIE) (opens in a new tab)

Pearson Edexcel (opens in a new tab)

Oxford AQA (opens in a new tab)

Candidate Results (opens in a new tab)