Core (max C)
Base syllabus, less demanding. Recommended if mathematics will no longer be a major subject going forward (humanities, arts) or if the goal is just to pass.
Limitation: maximum possible grade is C. Insufficient for A-Level Mathematics.
IGCSE · Cambridge · Edexcel
IGCSE Mathematics Tutoring
International General Certificate of Secondary Education — the British qualification for the end of secondary school (international equivalent of GCSE). The intermediate step toward A-Level or IB Diploma.
About the exam
What is IGCSE Mathematics
IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) is the international version of the British GCSE qualification. It is typically taken at the end of Year 10 or Year 11, at ages 14–16.
The two main certifying organizations ("boards") used by students from Romania are Cambridge International (curriculum codes IGCSE 0580 / 0606) and Edexcel (Pearson, codes 4MA1, 4PM1).
Passing IGCSE is the prerequisite step to A-Level (Year 12–13) or to the IB Diploma Programme, and is an admission criterion at international high schools.
Two levels in Cambridge IGCSE
- ›Core — base syllabus, maximum grade C. Recommended for students for whom mathematics will not be a major subject going forward.
- ›Extended — advanced syllabus, maximum grade A*. Required for continuation to A-Level Mathematics or Further Mathematics.
Standard syllabus content
- ›Numbers — fractions, percentages, ratios, powers, roots
- ›Algebra — linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, functions
- ›Geometry — circles, transformations, symmetry, vectors
- ›Trigonometry — sine, cosine, tangent, sine rule and cosine rule
- ›Statistics and probability — diagrams, averages, compound probability
- ›Elementary differential calculus (Extended only)
Core vs Extended decision
Core or Extended — which to choose
Extended (max A*)
Advanced syllabus, recommended for anyone planning A-Level Mathematics, Further Mathematics, or quantitative profiles at university.
Benefit: A*-G grading, opens access to competitive math courses in Year 12–13.
The teacher
Teaching in the Cambridge system since 2008
Dr. Georgiana Popovici has taught mathematics in the Cambridge system since 2008 — at Cambridge School of Bucharest (14 years, Head of Department) and now at IOANID International School.
Certified Cambridge International Primary Programme – Mathematics and Cambridge International AS and A Level Mathematics.
Full profile
Book IGCSE preparation
Tell me your board (Cambridge / Edexcel), level (Core / Extended) and exam date.