How Long Do I Need to Revise For My IGCSEs?

One of the most common questions IGCSE students ask about their revision is: How much should I do?

Whether you’re in Year 10 thinking ahead to next summer or Year 11 preparing for exams this year, knowing how long to revise for is essential to studying effectively and reducing stress.

This guide includes recommended revision timelines, subject-specific considerations, sample revision plans, and daily study targets to help you create a personalised schedule.

Key Takeaways

• Avoid last-minute cramming: Ideally, begin revision 3–6 months before your first exam, adjusting intensity as exams approach.

• Revision depends on your goals: Students aiming for top grades need more time and depth, while those aiming to pass can focus on key topics.

• Plan by subject and topic: Use a checklist to ensure all subjects and subtopics are covered.

When Should You Start Revising for Your IGCSEs?

The ideal start for IGCSE revision is 3–6 months before exams begin. This allows enough time to cover all subjects steadily without cramming. Summer IGCSE exams are usually held in May and June, and Autumn exams in October and November, so working backwards from your first exam will help you schedule effectively. 

If you have six months or more before your exams, focus on building your knowledge up gradually, reviewing revision notes, and practising exam-style questions to test your learning and identify areas for extra revision. If you have three months or less before your exams, ensure you’re scheduling intensive, well-structured revision sessions that focus on exam-specific learning and practice papers.

Learn how to create a bespoke IGCSE revision timetable that works for you, with more detailed guidance and top tips.

Factors That Affect How Much Revision You Need

Number of Subjects You’re Taking

Most students take between 7 and 10 IGCSE subjects. Each subject has multiple topics, so more subjects mean more revision time is needed. Although it can be tempting to spend more time on subjects you find easy or interesting, you should prioritise those you find most challenging and require most improvement in. Save My Exam’s Target Test is a great way of identifying weaker areas in your subject knowledge and pinpointing topics and ideas you should prioritise when revising.

Your Target Grades

Achieving a higher target grade in your exams will require deeper understanding, more past paper practice, and more frequent revision. For example, aiming for a Grade 9 in Physics requires mastery of calculations and practical questions, whereas Grade 5 may focus on core concepts only.

How Much You Already Know

Students who have kept up with homework, lessons, and tests during the year will need less last-minute revision. Those who have fallen behind will need extra time to review notes and consolidate understanding.

Your Learning Style and Speed

Some students process information quickly, while others need more time to understand and memorise content. Neurodivergent students or those with slower processing may need to build in additional time for review and practice.

Sample IGCSE Revision Timelines

6-Month Revision Plan

Start with 1-1.5 hours per day, gradually increasing weekly targets. Incorporate spaced repetition, flashcards, and past papers. Rotate subjects using spaced revision to maintain balance and avoid fatigue.

3-Month Revision Plan

Dedicate 2–3 hours per weekday and 3–5 hours on weekends. Break subjects into daily goals and include past paper practice weekly. Prioritise weaker subjects but review stronger ones regularly. Using active revision techniques is essential at this stage in your IGCSE revision to ensure you are moving information from your short-term memory into your long-term memory. 

1-Month Crash Revision Plan

Focus only on key topics, high-weight papers, and extensive past paper practice. Revision sessions may be 4–6 hours per day, with careful use of breaks to maintain focus. Using techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique, can be useful for maintaining focus for longer revision sessions.

How Many Hours Per Day Should You Revise?

• 6 months out: 1–1.5 hours/day, building habits and reviewing topics gradually.

• 3 months out: 2–3 hours/day, with a mix of new material and past papers.

• Final month: 4–6 hours/day, focusing on practice questions and high-priority topics.

Breaks are critical. Short rest intervals every 30–60 minutes improve concentration. Include at least one rest day per week to prevent burnout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3 months enough to revise for IGCSEs?

Yes, it is possible with a structured plan and focused effort. Prioritise high-weight topics and weaker subjects.

How long should I revise each day for IGCSEs?

Between 1–1.5 hours at the start, increasing to 4–6 hours in the final weeks, with breaks included.

When is too late to start revising for IGCSEs?

Starting within the last month is challenging but not impossible. Focus on key topics and past papers, and use time efficiently.

How many hours of revision do top students do?

Top-performing students often revise consistently over several months, averaging 2–3 hours per weekday and longer sessions at weekends.

Can I pass my IGCSEs with last-minute revision?

Yes, but the risk is higher. At this stage, focused, active revision is essential, especially on topics that commonly come up in past papers.

Final Thoughts

Revision is personal and depends on your goals, subjects, and prior knowledge. Consistent, focused effort over weeks or months is more effective than long hours of passive study. Start planning your timetable now, however much time you have left. Use tools like Save My Exams for revision notes, practice questions, and past papers to make your preparation targeted and efficient.