The Cambridge Program for Board Examination System Schools
Welcome to University of Cambridge International Examinations. We are the world’s largest provider of international education programs and assessments for 5 – 19 year olds. Schools in the US and 160 other countries around the world offer our education programs.
We are a department of the world famous University of Cambridge . The Cambridge approach promotes excellence in education, encouraging learner-centered and enquiry-based approaches to learning.
The Cambridge program develops learners’ skills in creative thinking, enquiry and problem solving, giving learners excellent preparation for the next stage in their education. Schools can build a core curriculum, extend it to suit their learners, and introduce cross-curricular perspectives.
The Cambridge program
The Cambridge program is a four-stage learning program for learners aged 5 – 19. Students can join the program at any stage.
Different routes through Grades 9 – 12
Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge A Levels are part of an internationally benchmarked continuum for students aged 5 – 19. Cambridge international education programs are accessible for a wide ability range.
Lower Division students generally start to study Cambridge IGCSE subjects in Grade 9, continuing into Grade 10. Students needing additional time to develop skills before starting IGCSE in Grade 9 can focus on foundation skills in Math, Science and English addressed in Cambridge Secondary 1.
When they are ready for more advanced study, students move onto Cambridge AS Level subjects, typically in Grade 11. Students who want to study at a higher level can move on to Cambridge A Level subjects in Grade 12.
Cambridge IGCSE subjects are typically studied by Lower Division students in Grades 9 and 10. Students will study each subject for either one or two years and finish the course with examinations.
Cambridge IGCSE develops learner knowledge, understanding and skills in:
o subject content
o applying knowledge and understanding to familiar and new situations
o intellection enquiry
o flexibility and responsiveness to change
o working and communicating in English
o influencing outcomes
o cultural awareness
Cambridge IGCSE subjects are modern, relevant and stimulating. They are available across five academic groups:
- Languages: English (First and Second language), Spanish (First and Second language), French, German, Arabic, Greek, Mandarin.
- Humanities: American History, World History, Economics, Literature in English, Global Perspectives.
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Coordinated Science.
- Mathematics: Mathematics, Additional Mathematics
- Creative/Vocational: Art and Design, Computer Studies, Music and Drama.
The content covered in each subject is clearly explained, with the skills and knowledge we expect each student to develop along the way.
Cambridge ICE Diploma
We award a certificate of achievement and a grade (from A* to G) for every Cambridge IGCSE examination passed. The Cambridge ICE Diploma is awarded to students who pass examinations in a group of seven Cambridge IGCSE subjects. The Diploma recognizes that a student has followed a broad and balanced curriculum. Students must pass examinations in at least seven subjects from the five different academic groups.
Cambridge International A and AS Levels are advanced level courses. Cambridge AS and A Level subjects are typically studied by students in Grades 11 and 12. They are excellent preparation for higher education and employment.
An AS Level subject will take around one year to complete, and a second year of study will lead to a full A Level.
Students receive a certificate of achievement listing the subject examinations and the grade achieved.
Advanced standing or academic credit is available from more than 400 US universities for Cambridge International A and AS Level examinations passed with good grades.
Cambridge A Level subjects are available across four groups:
- Mathematics and Science:Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics
- Languages: English Language, French and Spanish
- Arts and Humanities: Art and Design, Economics, English Language and Literature, English Literature, French Literature, Spanish Literature, Geography, History, Music,
- Research:Global Perspectives
The Cambridge AICE Diploma
Cambridge AICE is an advanced diploma, which is recognized and welcomed by colleges and universities around the world.
To complete the diploma, students study subjects at AS and/or A Level from the three subject areas. AS Level Global Perspectives also counts towards an AICE Diploma, which is awarded at Distinction, Merit or Pass, depending on the grades earned in each subject examination. Full details on the Cambridge AICE Diploma are on the main University of Cambridge International Examinations website here.
Training and support for teachers
Teachers who are well supported are able to offer the best education possible and develop successful students. We offer access to world-class support services, designed to help teachers deliver engaging, effective courses. We also help teachers develop as professionals.
We offer an extensive program of training events and services, including face-to-face workshops, online training and accreditation for coursework teachers.
We also support teachers with a wide range of textbooks and electronic resources, including past question papers, rubrics, examiners’ reports, lesson plans and online progression tests.
Sample resources
Cambridge IGCSE Brochure (overview)
Recognition in the USA brochure
Sample Lower Division plan of study
Sample Upper Division plan of study
Resources for Lower Division Cambridge IGCSE subjects
Resources for Upper Division Cambridge IGCSE subjects
Standards booklets for Lower and Upper Division subjects (hard copies available to order)
Click here to view a recording of a webinar with further information regarding Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge Advanced. Once you close the recording, your browser will redirect you to more information regarding the program, including a PDF version of the slides presented in the webinar.
