IGCSE Results Day 2026: What to Expect & What to Do Next

IGCSE Results Day 2026 marks a significant moment for students around the world. After months of hard work and revision, this is when you finally find out how you did.

If you’re feeling nervous, that’s completely normal. This guide explains everything you need to know, from when and how to get your results to understanding your grades and planning what comes next. Whether you’re celebrating success or deciding your next steps, we’ll help you stay calm, informed, and confident about the future.

Key Takeaways

• IGCSE Results Day 2026 is Wednesday 19 August for Cambridge International (CIE) students and Thursday 20 August for Pearson Edexcel and Oxford AQA students.

• You can usually collect results in person or online, depending on your school.

• Grades are awarded using either the A–G* or 9–1 scale, depending on your exam board.

• Whatever your results, there are always next steps, from confirming sixth form places to exploring new subjects or resits.

When Is IGCSE Results Day?

The date of IGCSE Results Day 2026 depends on your exam board:

• Cambridge International (CIE) (opens in a new tab): Wednesday 19 August 2026

• Pearson Edexcel (opens in a new tab) and Oxford AQA (opens in a new tab): Thursday 20 August 2026

Results are usually released online from around 9 a.m. local time, though this may vary by country or school. Because students sit IGCSEs worldwide, release times are aligned with local time zones rather than the UK time zone.

If you are collecting results in person, confirm when your school opens. Many schools release results between 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m., but collection times can differ.

How to Get Your IGCSE Results

There are several ways to access your IGCSE results. The exact process depends on your exam board and your school’s policy. If you’re unsure which system your school uses, check this with your exams officer before results day.

1. Collecting Results in Person

If your school requires you to collect results in person:

• Bring photo ID, such as a passport or student card.

• Check the opening time before you arrive.

• Take a pen and notebook if you want to write notes or ask teachers for advice.

• If you are away, you can usually nominate someone to collect your results. They will need your written permission and their own ID.

2. Getting Results Online

Many schools and exam centres allow students to view results through a secure online portal:

• Cambridge International students can log in via the candidate results portal (opens in a new tab).

• Pearson Edexcel and Oxford AQA students usually access results through their school’s online platform or by contacting their exams officer.

• Make sure you have your login details ready in advance to avoid delays on the day.

3. Receiving Results by Email or Post

If you cannot collect results or access them online, some schools will send them to you directly:

• Ask your exams officer if results can be emailed or posted.

• Confirm your email and postal address before results day.

• Be aware that posted results may arrive a few days later.

Understanding Your IGCSE Grades

IGCSEs are graded differently depending on your exam board.

• Cambridge International (CIE) uses the A*–G scale.

• Pearson Edexcel and Oxford AQA use the 9–1 numerical scale, where 9 is the highest grade.

Both systems recognise a similar level of achievement, and each grade shows how well you met the assessment criteria.

Here is a simple comparison of the two systems:

A grade 4 or C is generally considered a pass in most subjects. Find out more in our guide to IGCSE grades.

You may also see a Percentage Uniform Mark (PUM) on your statement of results. This shows where your score sits within the grade band, but it is not your actual percentage mark.

What to Do If You’re Happy with Your Results

Congratulations, your hard work has paid off! Here are some practical next steps to help you move forward with confidence:

• Confirm your next-step place. Contact your sixth form, college, or IB coordinator to confirm your enrolment and subject choices.

• Finalise your courses. If you have not yet chosen your A Level, IB, or vocational subjects, now is the time to make your final decisions.

• Update any applications. If you have applied abroad or for a scholarship, upload or send verified copies of your results.

• Keep a record. Save your statement of results and collect your official certificates when they are available.

• Take time to celebrate. You have achieved something important, so enjoy the moment with family and friends. There are many ways to celebrate IGCSE results day.

What to Do If You’re Unhappy with Your Results

If your grades aren't what you hoped for, don't panic. Many students feel disappointed at first, but there are always ways forward.

1. Talk to your teachers or exams officer

Talk to your teachers or exams officer as soon as possible. They can help you understand your results and suggest practical next steps. Some colleges may still accept you if you only missed your target grades by a small margin.

2. Ask about a review of marking

If your grade seems lower than expected, you can request a review. Your school will handle this process for you. Keep in mind that grades can go up, down, or stay the same.

3. Consider a Resit

Core subjects such as English and Maths are usually available for resit exams in November. Other subjects may need to be retaken in May or June of the following academic year. 

You can also enter as a private candidate at approved exam centres if you prefer to study independently. Our guide to retaking IGCSEs has all the advice you need.

4. Look after yourself

It is natural to feel upset or frustrated, but remember that one set of results does not define your potential. Take a break, talk to someone you trust, and focus on what you can do next. With the right plan, you can still achieve your goals.

How to Prepare Before Results Day

Results day can bring a mix of excitement and nerves. A little preparation can help you feel calmer and more in control.

Check collection details early

Find out when and how your school or exam centre will release results. Some centres open earlier than others, so confirm the time and location in advance.

Gather essentials

Bring photo ID, a pen, and your phone. Make sure your phone is fully charged in case you need to contact family, friends, or teachers.

Plan who to contact

Write down the names of teachers, tutors, or advisers you can speak to for support. It helps to know who to turn to if you have questions about your results or next steps.

Look after yourself

Get plenty of rest the night before and plan something enjoyable for later in the day. Having a positive distraction can make the day feel less stressful.

Set realistic expectations

Remember that grades never define your worth or potential. You have already achieved a lot by completing your IGCSEs, and there are always ways to move forward.

For more advice on staying calm and positive, see our guide to dealing with results day nerves.

What Happens After IGCSE Results Day?

After IGCSE results day, the next step is to confirm your place for further study. Most students move on to sixth form or college, but there are several good options depending on your goals.

Enrol in sixth form or college

If you have chosen to study A Levels, IB, or another qualification, contact your school or college to confirm your place and subject choices. Make sure you meet any enrolment deadlines and check whether you need to bring your results slip or ID.

Explore vocational and technical options

If you prefer practical learning, consider a BTEC, T Level, or apprenticeship instead. These qualifications combine study with hands-on experience and can lead directly to university or employment.

Get a head start on your next courses

Once your place is confirmed, start preparing for your new subjects. Save My Exams offers A Level revision resources that can help you build confidence before the term begins. Reviewing key topics early can make the transition to post-16 study much smoother.

Keep your results safe

You will receive your official IGCSE certificates later in the year. Keep them in a safe place, as they may be needed for future applications or verification.

Whatever path you choose, results day marks the beginning of an exciting new stage in your education.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time are IGCSE results released?

Results are usually available online from around 9 a.m. local time, but the exact release time can vary depending on your school and exam board. 

Check with your exams officer or teacher a few days before results day to confirm.

Can I get my IGCSE results online?

Yes. Most schools and exam centres provide secure online access:

• Cambridge International students can log in to the Cambridge results portal.

• Pearson Edexcel and Oxford AQA students usually access results through their school’s online system or by contacting their exams officer.

Make sure you have your login details ready in advance.

What should I do if I think my IGCSE results are wrong?

Speak to your exams officer as soon as possible. You can request a review of marking if your grade seems lower than expected, but remember that marks can go up, down, or stay the same.

Do I need to keep my IGCSE certificates?

Yes. Certificates are your official proof of achievement, and you’ll need them for future applications. Schools usually distribute them later in the year, so make sure you collect and store them safely.

How do I decide what to do next after my IGCSEs?

Think about your interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Explore A Levels, IB, or vocational qualifications to see what suits your learning style. 

Final Thoughts

Results day can feel overwhelming, but remember that it is only one step in your learning journey. Whatever your grades, you have already achieved something important by completing your IGCSEs.

Take time to celebrate your effort, reflect on what you have learned, and think about what excites you most about the next stage. Whether you are moving on to A Levels, IB, or a vocational pathway, there are always opportunities ahead.

For extra support as you plan your next steps, explore Save My Exams’ IGCSE revision resources, A Level revision notes, and Learning Hub. Trusted by 2M students, teachers and parents, our vast range of expert-written resources can help you feel confident, prepared, and ready for what comes next.

References

• Cambridge IGCSE - 14-16 Year Olds International Qualification (opens in a new tab)

• Cambridge International | Preparing for IGCSE results day (opens in a new tab)

• Cambridge International | Candidate Results (opens in a new tab)

• Pearson Edexcel | International GCSEs (opens in a new tab)

• Pearson Edexcel | Key dates & Planning Exams (opens in a new tab)

• OxfordAQA | International GCSEs (opens in a new tab)

• OxfordAQA International Qualifications | Dates and timetables (opens in a new tab)