What's The Difference Between Edexcel IGCSE Maths A & B?

Choosing between Edexcel IGCSE Maths A and B can feel confusing. You might not even know which one you're taking!

These two specifications look similar on the surface. But they have some important differences that could affect your study plan and future goals.

Many students ask: "Which Maths course am I doing?" or "Does it matter which one I take?" These are great questions. The answer depends on your school, your strengths, and where you want to go after IGCSEs.

At Save My Exams, we've helped thousands of IGCSE students navigate their maths courses. We know exactly what makes these two specifications different. In this guide I will clear up the confusion once and for all.

By the end of this article, you'll understand the key differences. You'll know which specification suits you best. And you'll feel confident about your maths journey.

Key takeaways

• Maths A offers two tiers (Foundation and Higher), while Maths B is Higher Tier only and aimed at more advanced students

• Maths A has two 2-hour papers, while Maths B has a 1.5-hour and a 2.5-hour paper with different question styles

• Maths A is far more widely offered internationally and is the standard choice for most schools

• Maths B includes additional advanced topics like matrices, calculus, and more complex algebra that Maths A doesn't cover at the same depth

What is Edexcel IGCSE Maths A?

Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics A (specification code 4MA1) is a linear qualification with two examinations available at both Foundation and Higher Tier. Both exams are taken at the end of the course. Both papers must be sat in the same exam series.

(Note that there is also a new modular version of the Edexcel IGCSE Maths A course. The first exams for this course were in 2025, although the course is only available for schools outside the UK. The course specification is available here (opens in a new tab). In this article I will primarily be discussing the linear version of the course.)

The Foundation Tier targets grades 5 to 1. The Higher Tier targets grades 9 to 4 (with grade 3 allowed).

Each paper lasts 2 hours and is worth 100 marks, with each paper contributing 50% to your final grade.

Maths A content is divided into the following six sections:

1. Numbers and the number system

2. Equations, formulae and identities

3. Sequences, functions and graphs

4. Geometry and trigonometry

5. Vectors and transformation geometry

6. Statistics and probability

Higher Tier content builds on Foundation knowledge, as well as adding additional topics that are only assessed at Higher Tier.

The specification (opens in a new tab) describes its approach as providing tiered papers that allow students to be entered at an appropriate level, with questions accessible to students of all abilities within each tier.

This flexibility makes Maths A suitable for a wide range of students. Whether you're aiming for a grade 5 or a grade 9, there's a tier designed for you.

What is Edexcel IGCSE Maths B?

Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics B (specification code 4MB1) is a linear qualification consisting of two examinations available at Higher Tier only, targeting grades 9 to 4 (with grade 3 allowed).

Both exams must be taken in the same series at the end of your course.

Unlike Maths A, there's no Foundation Tier option. This specification is designed specifically for students working at a higher level.

Paper 1 lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes and makes up one-third of your final grade, whilst Paper 2 lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes and counts for two-thirds of your grade.

Paper 1 contains around 26 to 30 shorter questions, while Paper 2 has approximately 11 to 12 longer, more detailed questions.

Maths B content is divided into the following ten sections:

1. Number

2. Sets

3. Algebra

4. Functions

5. Matrices

6. Geometry

7. Mensuration

8. Vectors and transformation geometry

9. Trigonometry

10. Statistics and probability

Compared to Maths A, the Maths B specification (opens in a new tab) includes additional content such as matrices, the factor theorem for cubics, and more extensive work with vectors and transformations.

Maths B is more demanding. It expects you to work at a higher mathematical level from the start.

Key differences between IGCSE Edexcel Maths A and Maths B

Here's a clear comparison of the two specifications:

The most significant difference is the tier structure. Maths A offers both Foundation and Higher Tier options, while Maths B is exclusively Higher Tier.

Both specifications assess problem-solving and mathematical reasoning skills, with Maths A allocating 25% to problem-solving and 15% to reasoning at Foundation, rising to 30% and 20% respectively at Higher, whilst Maths B allocates 30% to problem-solving and 20% to reasoning across both papers.

Which one is more popular?

Maths A is significantly more popular than Maths B in international schools.

The vast majority of schools offering Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics teach Specification A. This is the "standard" option you'll encounter most often.

Why is Maths A more widespread? There are several reasons.

First, the tiered structure suits more students. Not everyone is ready for Higher Tier maths. Foundation Tier provides an accessible route to a solid qualification.

Second, Maths A aligns more closely with traditional GCSE structures. Schools familiar with UK qualifications find it easier to deliver.

Third, many schools simply don't have demand for the more specialised Maths B. Unless you have a large cohort of high-achieving maths students, Maths A meets most needs.

Maths B is typically offered only in schools with strong maths departments. These schools cater to students who excel in mathematics and plan to pursue maths-heavy A Levels or university courses.

How are the exams structured?

Maths A structure

At Foundation Tier, students sit Paper 1F and Paper 2F, each lasting 2 hours and worth 100 marks, assessing the full range of grades 5 to 1.

At Higher Tier, students take Paper 1H and Paper 2H, also 2 hours each and 100 marks, targeting grades 9 to 4 (with grade 3 allowed).

Both Foundation papers include approximately 40% of questions targeted at grades 5 and 4 to aid standardisation between tiers. This means that some exam questions typically appear in both tiers’ papers within a given exam cycle.

Calculators are permitted in all papers.

A formulae sheet is provided, with separate sheets for Foundation and Higher Tier.

Both papers test all content areas. You can't predict which topics will appear more heavily, so you need to prepare everything.

Maths B structure

Paper 1 lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, contains approximately 26 to 30 questions, and contributes one-third of your total grade.

Paper 2 lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes, contains around 11 to 12 questions, and makes up two-thirds of your final grade.

Both papers can include questions from any part of the specification, and solutions may require knowledge of multiple content areas.

Each paper allocates approximately 40% of marks evenly across grades 4 and 5, with the remaining 60% distributed evenly across grades 6, 7, 8, and 9.

Where Paper 2 requires a formula from the formulae sheet, that formula is printed at the end of the question.

Calculators are allowed in both papers.

The different paper lengths and question styles mean Maths B papers require different exam strategies. Paper 1 tests breadth with shorter questions. Paper 2 demands depth with extended problems.

Which specification should you take?

The honest answer? You probably won't get to choose.

Most schools offer only one specification. Your school has already decided based on their curriculum and student needs.

But if you do have a choice, here's how to decide:

Choose Maths A if:

• You want the flexibility of Foundation or Higher Tier

• You prefer consistent paper structures

• You're aiming for university courses that require IGCSE Maths but not necessarily at the highest level

• Your strengths are in applying maths to practical problems

Choose Maths B if:

• You're confident working at Higher Tier level only

• You excel in mathematics and plan to study Maths at A Level

• You enjoy more challenging, extended problem-solving

• You want exposure to topics like matrices and additional calculus earlier

Maths B includes additional advanced content such as matrices, the factor theorem applied to cubics, and more extensive work with calculus and vectors.

These topics don't appear in Maths A (or appear at a simpler level). If you love pure maths, Maths B might suit you better.

Not sure which one you're taking?

Check your specification code. Look at past papers or your course materials. The code will say either 4MA1 (Maths A) or 4MB1 (Maths B).

Ask your teacher if you're still unsure. They'll confirm which specification you're registered for.

Do universities prefer one over the other?

No. Both qualifications are equally respected. In my experience teaching IGCSE Maths, I have never had a student have a problem with university applications because they had taken Maths A.

Neither Maths A nor Maths B is accredited by a UK regulatory body, but both are recognised internationally as rigorous qualifications.

Universities and sixth forms accept both. They carry the same weight on your application.

However, there's a practical consideration. Admissions teams may be more familiar with Maths A simply because it's more common.

When they see "Edexcel IGCSE Maths" on an application, they usually think of Specification A. That's not a problem. It just means Maths A is the "default" in most people's minds.

If you've taken Maths B, your achievement is still fully recognised. Some admissions tutors might even view it favourably if they know it includes more advanced content.

Both specifications provide a solid basis for progression to AS and A Level Mathematics, Further Mathematics, or other Level 3 qualifications.

What matters more than which specification you took is the grade you achieved. A grade 7 in Maths A is equivalent to a grade 7 in Maths B for university entry.

If you're applying to competitive courses (like engineering or mathematics degrees), aim for the highest grade possible in whichever specification you're taking.

At Save My Exams, our Edexcel IGCSE Maths revision resources cover both specifications. We help students achieve their target grades regardless of which route they're taking.

Frequently asked questions

Is Maths B harder than Maths A?

Not necessarily. They're different, not harder or easier.

Maths B is more advanced because it's Higher Tier only. It includes topics like matrices, the factor theorem for cubics, and more complex calculus that don't appear in Maths A.

But Maths A Higher Tier is still very challenging. It covers substantial content and demands strong problem-solving skills.

If you compare Higher Tier to Higher Tier, Maths B is more demanding. But many students find Maths A challenging too, especially if they're working towards grade 7, 8, or 9.

The Foundation Tier in Maths A targets lower grades. That doesn't make it "easy" – it's pitched at the right level for students aiming for grades 5 to 1.

Can I switch between Maths A and B?

Switching is difficult and usually not recommended.

Both specifications are linear, meaning all exams are taken at the end of the course.

The content overlaps significantly, but there are differences. Maths B includes topics Maths A doesn't cover. Swapping mid-course means catching up on new material.

Also, exam boards need time to process registration changes. Your school would need to arrange this well in advance.

If you're considering switching, talk to your teacher immediately. They'll assess whether it's practical and in your best interests.

In most cases, students stick with the specification they start with. Focus on doing well in your current course rather than switching.

Are the same topics covered in both specifications?

Mostly, yes. But not entirely.

Both specifications cover Number, Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics as core areas.

Maths A organises content into Numbers and the number system, Equations, formulae and identities, Sequences, functions and graphs, Geometry and trigonometry, Vectors and transformation geometry, and Statistics and probability.

Maths B structures content into Number, Sets, Algebra, Functions, Matrices, Geometry, Mensuration, Vectors and transformation geometry, Trigonometry, and Statistics and probability.

The overlap is significant. Topics like Pythagoras' theorem, trigonometry, algebra, and probability appear in both.

But Maths B goes further in several areas. It includes matrices, more advanced set theory, the factor theorem, algebraic division of cubics, and more advanced.

Maths A includes calculus at Higher Tier with differentiation of integer powers and finding gradients and turning points, while Maths B extends this to practical applications including displacement, velocity and acceleration problems.

If you're taking Maths A, don't worry about matrices or the factor theorem. They're not on your specification. Focus on mastering what is included.

Will both prepare me for A Level Maths?

Yes, absolutely. In my years of teaching Edexcel IGCSE Maths, I have never had a student be disadvantaged because they ‘only’ took Maths A.

Both Maths A and Maths B are designed as solid foundations for AS and A Level Mathematics, Further Mathematics, and other Level 3 qualifications.

Students from both specifications progress successfully to A Level Maths every year.

Maths B might give you a slight head start on certain topics. You'll already know about matrices, for example, which appear in some A Level Further Maths courses.

Some of the additional calculus content in Maths B is also a core component of A Level Maths.

But Maths A prepares you well too. Higher Tier students learn differentiation, finding gradients and turning points of curves. You'll cover the essential foundations.

A Level Maths teachers expect students from various IGCSE backgrounds. They're used to bringing everyone up to the same level at the start of the course.

What matters most is achieving a strong grade (typically grade 6 or higher) and developing solid algebraic and problem-solving skills.

Final thoughts

Both Edexcel IGCSE Maths A and Maths B are excellent qualifications.

They're designed to meet different student needs whilst maintaining equally rigorous standards.

Maths A offers flexibility with its two-tier structure. It's the most common choice and suits a wide range of abilities.

Maths B provides additional challenge for high-achieving students. It's less widely available but covers more advanced content.

Neither is "better" overall. They're different tools for different students.

The key takeaway? Focus on doing your best in whichever specification you're taking. Both lead to the same opportunities.

If you're still unsure which specification you're following, check your specification code (4MA1 or 4MB1). Ask your teacher if you need clarification.

Work hard, use the right resources, and you'll achieve the grade you're aiming for. Good luck with your studies!

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• Detailed, exam-aligned revision notes

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Edexcel IGCSE Maths resources

References

• Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) - Specification (opens in a new tab)

• Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification B) - Specification (opens in a new tab)

• Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) - Modular Specification (opens in a new tab)