What is IGCSE Agriculture?

If you’re choosing your IGCSEs, you might have come across IGCSE Agriculture (opens in a new tab). But what does the course involve, and is it the right choice for you?

Offered by Cambridge International Education (CIE), IGCSE Agriculture looks at the science and practice of farming.

This guide explains what the course covers, how it’s assessed, and where it can lead to next.

Key Takeaways

• CIE is currently the only exam board offering IGCSE Agriculture

• The qualification is offered only in administrative zones (opens in a new tab) 2–5

• Assessment is two papers: one theory and one practical coursework

• IGCSE Agriculture is ideal for A Level Biology or Environmental Science, as well as degrees and careers in agriculture

What is IGCSE Agriculture?

IGCSE Agriculture is a two-year qualification that looks at the science and practice of farming. Its topics include soil, crops and livestock. It is classed as an applied science.

Where can you take IGCSE Agriculture?

The only exam board offering IGCSE Agriculture is CIE, and it’s only available in administrative zones 2-5. Check CIE’s website to find out which zone you’re located in (opens in a new tab). 

If your school doesn’t offer IGCSE Agriculture, consider using a distance education provider like TigerCampus (opens in a new tab).

What do you study in IGCSE Agriculture?

CIE IGCSE Agriculture consists of 10 topics:

1. General agriculture

2. Soil

3. Principles of plant growth

4. Crop production

5. Crop protection

6. Livestock anatomy and physiology

7. Livestock production and health

8. Pasture management

9. Livestock and crop breeding

10. Farm structure and tools

For more information on each topic, take a look at the 2027-28 syllabus (opens in a new tab).

How is IGCSE Agriculture assessed?

The table below outlines what each IGCSE Agriculture component involves:

How does IGCSE Agriculture compare with related subjects?

If you're choosing between IGCSE Agriculture and similar options, here are the key points to note:

IGCSE Agriculture is an applied science focused on farming. Assessment is 70% theory and 30% practice.

IGCSE Biology is also a science subject, but it has a broader focus: the study of living organisms and life processes. You generally won’t take a separate practical exam.

IGCSE Geography examines how the planet works, both physically and through human activity. It covers a broad range of topics, including rural and urban environments. Papers may or may not include coursework, depending on your exam board and selected options. 

IGCSE Environmental Management bridges the gap between science and geography, examining how people interact with the natural world. Assessment involves two written exams rather than any practical components.

How hard is IGCSE Agriculture?

Though it’s not generally listed among the hardest IGCSEs, some students find IGCSE Agriculture difficult.

The theory paper includes extended response questions, which can be hard if you find longer writing tasks difficult. 

As an applied science, you’ll also be tested on your practical skills. This is generally easier for students who’ve worked on farms before. 

If your scientific and practical skills are strong, you’ll find IGCSE Agriculture challenging but ultimately rewarding.

What can you do with IGCSE Agriculture?

Here are just some of the pathways IGCSE Agriculture can open up:

Further Study

• A Level Biology or Environmental Science

• Degrees in Agriculture

Careers

• Agriculture and farming

• Food production

• Civil service, e.g. Food Standards Agency (FSA)

Is IGCSE Agriculture right for you?

If you like science, are interested in farming and want a subject that tests your practical skills, IGCSE Agriculture is well worth considering.

If you prefer lab-based science or more theoretical subjects, it’s likely not for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which exam board offers IGCSE Agriculture?

CIE is currently the only exam board offering IGCSE Agriculture.

Can UK students take IGCSE Agriculture?

Yes. The qualification is available in administrative zones 2-5, and the UK is in Zone 3.

However, since it’s a fairly niche qualification, a lot of schools don’t offer IGCSE Agriculture. You may have to study it through a distance education provider like TigerCampus instead.

Is there practical work in IGCSE Agriculture?

Yes. Your coursework (Component 2) requires you to undertake at least four practical exercises (like ploughing, weeding or pruning) and one investigative project in the form of a report.

Is IGCSE Agriculture a science subject?

Yes – it's an applied science. It draws on biology, chemistry, ecology and economics, and treats farming as a system you can study scientifically.

If you want a scientific course that teaches you about farming both in theory and in practice, IGCSE Agriculture is an ideal choice. Consider the best IGCSE subject combinations to help you make an informed decision about your IGCSE options.