Worst IGCSE Subject Combinations

When it comes to your IGCSE subject combinations it’s normal to question your choices. Are you picking subjects that are too tough to manage, not right for your future studies, or don’t work well together? In a nutshell, you want to know: what would be the worst IGCSE subject combinations? 

You’ve already made the first right step! You’re here to find answers. That’s exactly what this guide will provide. We’ll set out real examples of weak combinations, explain the issues, and suggest smarter alternatives to help you make the best choices. 

Key Takeaways

• Balance: The best IGCSE combinations include a mix of essay-based, problem-solving, and creative subjects to develop a full range of skills.

• Think ahead, but don't panic: Your IGCSE choices influence A Level options and university courses, but mistakes can often be corrected early on.

• Avoid going too narrow or too easy: Choosing all subjects from one area (like three business subjects) or picking subjects just because they seem easy can limit your future options.

Why Subject Combinations Matter at IGCSE

You’ve heard it before: choosing your IGCSE subjects is an important decision and could affect your future. While this is true, it’s reassuring to remember that your IGCSEs are only the first part of your academic journey. At this early stage it’s tricky to make decisions about what you’re going to do after school! Don’t worry - you’ll specialise later, at A Levels and university. The point of IGCSEs is to provide you with a solid foundation of skills and knowledge. 

With this in mind:

• It’s time to consider your future

  • You don’t need to know for sure what career you’ll go into, but having a rough idea is really going to help

• Keep your options open

  • Pick subject combinations that give you a well-rounded skillset 

• Avoid choosing a full set of ‘easy’ or ‘fun’ subjects

  • Balance exam-based subjects with practical, creative subjects

It’ll help you choose well if you know what subjects involve. Our detailed list of IGCSE Options directs you to course overviews and past papers. Find out exactly what you’ll be doing!

It’ll help you choose well if you know what subjects involve. Our detailed list of IGCSE Options directs you to course overviews and past papers. Find out exactly what you’ll be doing!

The reason your IGCSEs matter comes down to three things:

1.Skill development 

Different subjects teach different skills. Sciences develop problem-solving and practical investigation. Humanities build essay-writing, analysis, and critical thinking. Languages strengthen communication and cultural awareness. Creative subjects foster innovation and self-expression. A balanced combination helps you become a well-rounded learner.

2.Further studies

Many sixth forms and colleges want you to have studied specific IGCSE subjects to prepare you for A Levels. It’s going to be tough choosing A Level Chemistry if you have missed the basics in IGCSE Chemistry. If you’ve avoided an essay-writing subject at IGCSE level, A Level History or Literature could be a big adjustment. 

3.University prospects 

While universities focus mainly on A Level results, a weak or unbalanced IGCSE combination can make some courses harder to access. It’s not impossible, but it could delay your start. You might need some kind of bridging course before your degree. 

For example, competitive courses like Medicine, Engineering, or Law need students to have strong analytical and communication skills from the get-go. 

For more details, browse our guide on How IGCSEs Fit Into a University Application.

Common IGCSE Subject Mistakes

Before we look at combinations to avoid, here are some common mistakes:

• Choosing subjects because they seem less demanding 

  • While workload matters, employers and universities want academic rigour

• Narrowing too early

  • Picking five subjects all from the same field (like all sciences or all arts) because you think you know your career path can backfire

• Ignoring entry requirements 

  • Not researching what A Level subjects or university courses require causes complications later

• Following friends

  • Choosing subjects because of what your friends are doing

• Underestimating workload

  • Not realising that some subjects (especially those with coursework, practicals, or portfolios) require significant time outside lessons

Let’s look at some problematic combinations.

Subject Combinations to Avoid (And Why)

These combinations aren't impossible. Some students manage them successfully. Still, it’s worth understanding the challenges before you commit. If you've already chosen one of these combinations, don't panic—we'll discuss how to assess and adjust your choices later.

How to Spot a Weak Subject Combination

Here is a simple checklist to self-assess:

The Balance Test

• Do you have one essay-based subject?

  • History, Geography, English Literature, Religious Studies

• Do you have one problem-solving subject?

  • Maths, Sciences, Computer Science

• Have you included subjects from three different areas? 

  • Sciences, Humanities, Languages, Creative, Practical

The Future Planning Test

• Have you researched A Level requirements for subjects you're interested in?

• If you have a dream university course, have you checked the IGCSE preferences?

• Does your list include at least one or two subjects respected by universities?

The Skills Test

• Will your combination help you develop writing, analysis, and critical thinking?

• Will you practice problem-solving and logical reasoning?

• Are you building communication skills (through languages, debates, presentations)?

The Workload Test

• Have you researched how much coursework, practical work, or portfolio development each subject requires?

• Are you balancing exam-heavy subjects with coursework-heavy ones?

The Interest Test

• Are you interested in your subjects, or just choosing what seems easy?

• Have you talked to older students about what the subjects are actually like?

• Can you imagine studying these subjects for two years without losing motivation?

If you answer "no" to several questions in any category, it's worth reconsidering. The best time to adjust is now. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I realise I've chosen the wrong subjects?

Recognising a problem early shows maturity and self-awareness. 

Here's what to do:

• Act quickly: Changing subjects in the first few weeks or months is relatively straightforward.  For instance, one of my Year 10 Literature students decided that all the essay-writing alongside their History IGCSE was a bit much. In October they swapped Literature for Art.

• Talk to your school: Speak with your form tutor, head of year, or IGCSE coordinator. Explain your concerns clearly. Schools understand that students sometimes need to adjust. 

• Be realistic about catch-up: Ask what content you've missed and if support is available. Some of my students have caught up on missed content on their own, while others have had tutoring or extra lessons.

• Learn from it: Use this experience for future decisions, like A Levels. What went wrong? Did you research enough? Did you follow friends? 

Can I change IGCSE subjects partway through the course?

It all depends on your school, when you want to change, and which subjects are involved.

• In Year 9 or early Year 10: Most schools allow this with minimal fuss, especially if you have a clear reason.

• Midway through Year 10: Possible, but requires catching up on missed content. Your school will work out if this is realistic. They may ask parents or guardians, too.

• Year 11, close to exams: Changing subjects is usually not advisable except under exceptional circumstances (like moving schools or health issues). 

Some subjects are easier to catch up on than others due to specific topic content.  

Always talk to your school. They may offer creative solutions like online learning, catch-up sessions, or other arrangements. 

A Year 11 student of mine moved to a school who did not offer French. As they were halfway through their French course, they worked independently in the library while other students took their Spanish lessons. 

Do universities care about IGCSE subject combinations?

Yes and no. 

Most universities mainly consider your A Level (or equivalent) subjects and grades. On the other hand, your IGCSE combination may affect your A Levels, which determines university options. 

For competitive degrees at top universities, your academic history is reviewed for:

• Consistent academic performance from IGCSE onwards

• Evidence of well-roundedness and diverse skills

• Strong grades in subjects relevant to the degree

Have a look at entry requirements. 

If you have your eye on a future in medicine, the Medical Schools Council (opens in a new tab) tells you exactly what universities are after. 

Final Thoughts

If you're currently choosing subjects, think about the career path you might be interested in and the skills you need to develop.

If you've already chosen and you're worried, speak to your school now. 

Finally, keep perspective. Your IGCSE subjects are important, but they're not everything. Students with imperfect subject combinations still get into top universities, pursue successful careers, and lead fulfilling lives. What matters most is that you work hard, stay curious, and keep learning.

Want to know more? 

Our resources provide insights from real experienced teachers and examiners, 
Find out How to Prepare for IGCSEs with detailed IGCSE-specific guidance on revision and exam prep. 
If you’re keen to know more about future pathways, you can find out What's Next After Your IGCSEs? 

References: 

Medical School Council: Entry Requirements (opens in a new tab)