Cambridge vs Edexcel vs Oxford AQA: IGCSE Exam Board Guide
Written by: Minnie Cooper
Reviewed by: Holly Barrow
Published
Contents
Key Takeaways
Major exam boards: Cambridge, Edexcel, and Oxford AQA are the main IGCSE exam boards. All are internationally recognised and accepted by universities and employers.
Assessments and exam styles: While subject content is often similar, there are key differences in assessment format and style. This includes exam structure, use of coursework, and marking criteria.
Grading scales: All boards use external marking and 9–1 grading. Cambridge also uses A*–G. Exam sessions vary slightly, but all offer multiple sittings each year.
Confused about IGCSE exam boards? You’re not the only one wondering: “Does my board affect how difficult my exams are?”, “Is Cambridge better than Edexcel?”, and “What is Oxford AQA?”.
The good news is all three major IGCSE exam boards (Cambridge (CIE), Edexcel (Pearson), and Oxford AQA) are internationally recognised and widely respected.
This guide breaks down the key differences between the Cambridge (CIE), Edexcel (Pearson), and Oxford AQA exam boards, including their different subject structure, exam format, grading, and recognition, so you can make sense of your syllabus and what it means for your exams.
Why the Exam Board Matters
Although the core subject content is often similar across IGCSE exam boards, there are some key differences. Differences can include:
Assessment style, including coursework and exam requirements
Exam structure, question style and mark schemes
Knowing which exam board you are studying is important, because it can help you learn and revise content more effectively and know how to answer exam questions correctly.
Quick Overview of Each IGCSE Exam Board
Cambridge (CIE) | Edexcel | Oxford AQA | |
Global Presence | High global presence Used by schools in 160+ countries | High global presence Used by schools in 80+ countries | Newer, but growing presence globally |
Course Focus | Emphasis on deep conceptual understanding and independent thinking | Emphasis on practical knowledge and structured assessment | Emphasis on conceptual learning and simplifying abstract ideas |
Exam sessions | Multiple exam sessions, including in May/June and October/November | Multiple exam sessions, including in January and May/June | Multiple exam sessions, including in May/June and November |
Subject Range | 70+ subjects offered | 40+ subjects offered | 20+ subjects offered |
Grading Scales | 9-1 and A*-G scales used | 9-1 scale used | 9-1 scale used |
Recognition Among Universities | High global recognition | High global recognition | Recognised globally, but may be less familiar as it is newer |
Subject Comparison Highlights
| IGCSE Maths | IGCSE English | IGCSE Sciences |
Cambridge (CIE) | Core and Extended Papers available Calculator and non-calculator papers required Strong emphasis on problem-solving and application | No tiered papers English Literature and English Language offered Emphasis on developing critical assessment of fiction and non-fiction texts, including poetry and prose, and creative writing. Speaking and listening also commonly assessed | Core and Extended Papers available Separate sciences and combined sciences offered Emphasis on strong theoretical knowledge and practical experimental work to implement it No practical exam |
Edexcel | Higher and Foundation Papers available Calculator and non-calculator papers required Strong emphasis on real-world, practical problem-solving | No tiered papers English Literature and English Language offered Emphasis on critical analysis of fiction and non-fiction texts, including poetry and prose. Greater emphasis on grammar skills Optional speaking and listening component | No tiered papers Separate sciences and double sciences offered Emphasis on practical knowledge and real-world application No practical exam |
Oxford AQA | Core and Extension Papers available Calculator and non-calculator papers required Strong emphasis on abstract reasoning and showing logical thinking through step-by-step procedures | No tiered papers English Literature and English Language offered Emphasis on critical analysis of texts and argumentative writing Speaking and listening assessment is optional or separate from main assessment | No tiered papers Separate sciences and double sciences offered Emphasis on scientific enquiry through practicals and real-world application of knowledge No practical exam |
Grading and Marking Differences
All three IGCSE boards use the 9-1 grading scales (Cambridge also uses the A*-G scale).
Broadly speaking, all exam boards have the same level of difficulty. So, if you were to take the IGCSE Cambridge Maths exam, you wouldn’t be more or less likely to get a Grade 5 than a student taking the IGCSE Edexcel Maths exam the same year.
Where there are differences in difficulty is between the Core/Foundation and Extended/Higher/Extension tier exam papers. Their Core/Foundation papers are less difficult and test foundational concepts, while Extended/Higher/Extension papers are more challenging and cover advanced topics. Your school can help you decide which tier paper you sit. Find out more about Cambridge (CIE) tiered papers.
All exams are marked externally, with set grade boundaries for each exam session. As mentioned before, all exam boards are well regarded and aim to be fair in how they award grades.
Recognition by Universities and Employers
All three IGCSE boards are accepted by UK universities, as well as top institutions and employers worldwide. Generally, qualifications from these exam boards are considered equally valuable.
Which IGCSE Exam Board Is Right for You?
There’s no ‘best’ board. Just the one that fits you best. Use the comparison tables in this guide to see which each exam board best suits your academic skills and preferred assessment style.
Ultimately, your success depends more on how you prepare than which board you take. You may also not have a choice, as your school may decide for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Cambridge IGCSEs harder than Edexcel?
Not necessarily. Cambridge may feel more demanding due to the conceptual focus and wide content range, but difficulty also depends on your strengths.
Can I switch from one IGCSE exam board to another?
This may be possible, but check with your school and/or teacher first. You may need to learn new content for a different exam board, or adapt to a new exam format.
Do all schools offer all three IGCSE boards?
No. Most schools choose one or two exam boards depending on their curriculum and resources. Check with your school and/or teacher which ones they offer for your year.
How do I know which exam board I’m studying with?
You can find out by asking your school and/or teacher. You could also check textbooks, past papers and other learning materials you have been given by your school, as these may have the name of the exam board on them.
The good news is, no matter which IGCSE exam board you study, you will gain a good overall understanding of your subject and be prepared to continue on to a range of post-16 options, like A Levels, IB, BTECs and foundation programmes. The key is to focus on mastering your course material, and you’ll be on track for success no matter your exam board.
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