Browse frequently asked questions about past papers, AI exam prediction, mock exams, MCQs, e-books, and study tools on exam-mate.
Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) is a globally recognized exam for students aged 14–16, offered by Cambridge Assessment International Education. It prepares students for A-Level, IB, and other post-16 programs.
Cambridge IGCSE offers over 70 subjects including Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English, Business Studies, Computer Science, ICT, Economics, History, Geography, Accounting, and more.
Cambridge IGCSE is graded from A to G*. Some schools offer the 9–1 grading scale, where 9 is the highest grade.
Most subjects have 2 to 4 papers, depending on the syllabus. Example:
IGCSE Mathematics 0580: Papers 1, 2, 3, 4
IGCSE Biology 0610: Papers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Core covers the basic syllabus and allows grades C–G.
Extended includes advanced content and allows grades A*–E.
Cambridge IGCSE exams run in three series each year:
March (India only)
May/June
October/November
Topical past papers are exam questions arranged by topic (e.g., Algebra, Respiration, Electricity). They help students practice focused revision for each unit of the syllabus.
You can find complete yearly past papers, topical past papers, MCQs, and mark schemes on platforms like exam-mate, which organizes content by subject, topic, and year.
Some websites offer free access, while others provide premium structured resources such as exam builders, topical eBooks, and MCQ banks.
Use a combination of:
Topical past papers
Full yearly papers
Mark schemes
Revision notes
Timed mock exams
MCQ quizzes
Online tutors or tuition centers
Mock exams simulate real exam conditions using past papers or new exam-standard questions. They help diagnose weaknesses and improve time management.
0580 has four papers:
Paper 1 (Core)
Paper 3 (Core)
Paper 2 (Extended)
Paper 4 (Extended)
Includes:
MCQ (Paper 1 or 2)
Structured Questions (Paper 3 or 4)
Practical/Alternative to Practical (Paper 5 or 6)
Paper 2: Core theory
Paper 4: Extended theory (higher difficulty)
A written exam that tests practical understanding without conducting real lab experiments.
Typically two years, depending on the school curriculum.
Yes. Cambridge IGCSE is recognized by universities and employers in 160+ countries.
International recognition
Strong academic foundation
Emphasis on analytical and practical skills
Preparation for A-Level, IB, AP, SAT, or national systems
Cambridge uses the CAIE syllabus
Edexcel uses Pearson's framework
Paper formats and question styles differ slightly
Yes, private candidates can register through approved Cambridge exam centres.
Cambridge releases official timetables for each series (May/June, Oct/Nov) on its website, and centers also share local schedules.
Schools must complete Cambridge accreditation and meet administrative, exam, and infrastructure requirements.
Results are available on the Cambridge Candidate Results Portal, typically:
Mid-August (June session)
Mid-January (November session)
IGCSE is generally more academically challenging and internationally standardized.
Using MCQ banks, topic-wise quizzes, timed practice tests, and explanations from mark schemes.
Some subjects include coursework or practical assessments (e.g., Art & Design, Computer Science, Sciences with practicals).
Yes, in most papers except specific non-calculator papers (e.g., Math Paper 1 and Paper 2 in some syllabuses).
Teachers can:
Assign topical worksheets
Build custom exam papers
Track student progress
Use mark schemes and model answers
Share resources with classes
Practice 100–300 past paper questions
Focus on weak topics
Check answers using mark schemes
Take timed mock exams weekly
Mark schemes show accepted answers, steps, keywords, and points allocation, helping students learn exam technique.
Yes, students can retake in the following exam series.
Typically 14–16, but private candidates of any age can take the exam.
0970 is the same syllabus but follows the 9–1 grading scale.
Cambridge is introducing more digital assessments, updated syllabuses, and new exam formats in some subjects.
Yes. Cambridge plans a digital rollout starting from 2026 for selected subjects.
For some subjects, formula sheets are included. For others, students must memorize formulas.
Usually between 45 minutes and 2 hours, depending on subject and paper.
Most students take 5 to 8 subjects, depending on school requirements.
Topic-wise questions
Answers
Examiner-style guidance
Quick revision summaries
Step-by-step solutions
This varies, but commonly perceived easier subjects include ICT, Global Perspectives, Business Studies, and English as a Second Language.
Mathematics, Additional Mathematics (0606), Physics, Chemistry, and English First Language are often considered more challenging.
Create a study schedule
Monitor progress
Use past papers
Encourage regular revision
Join tuition programs if needed
Topical past papers
Yearly papers
Mark schemes
MCQ banks
Mock exam generator
Full exam builder
Topical eBooks
AI-powered tutoring and explanations
Questions are rarely repeated exactly, but similar patterns and styles appear often.
Yes, universities worldwide recognize IGCSE as a strong academic foundation.