Frequently Asked Questions - IGCSE
Is the IGCSE Programme recognized by schools and universities worldwide?
Yes.
Is the IGCSE Programme recognized by higher secondary boards and universities in India?
Yes, it is recognized by CBSE, CISCE and state education boards in India as a viable qualification for entry to class XI or for other higher secondary education courses.
How are IGCSE students assessed?
A variety of assessment techniques are used, appropriate to the various subjects, such as oral and listening tests, practical and coursework which look at overall performance over this two-year period, and contribute 30-50% of the final grade in all subjects, in addition to written examinations.
What are the benefits of IGCSE, when compared with other examinations that might be taken in classes IX and X?
Firstly, it is an international examination with world-wide status and credibility.
Secondly, it encourages - indeed, demands - the questioning and discovery method of learning, rather than relying on rote learning.
Thirdly, it provides excellent preparation for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme that SVKM International School students follow in classes XI and XII. Students who have taken the IGCSE Programme will be familiar with the styles of learning and the expectations of the IB.
Fourthly, the coursework and practicals provide a strong skill development and application orientation.
Which modern foreign languages will be available?
We currently offer French as a foreign language.
Can an IGCSE student at SVKM International School continue his / her studies at another IGCSE authorized school if the need arises?
Yes, as all IGCSE authorized schools across the world follow a common curriculum. IGCSE students, like IB students, enjoy enormous mobility and transferability. However, admission to another school will be subject to the admissions policy of that school and the availability of places and subjects on offer.
What options are available after completing the IGCSE Programme?
Obviously we hope that our IGCSE students will continue at SVKM International School and follow the IB Diploma Programme in classes XI and XII. SVKM International School offers only the IB Diploma Programme in classes XI and XII. The IGCSE board examinations are held in May-June and the results are announced online in the 2nd week of August, with the print copies of results available in the school by the 3rd week of August. The certificates are issued mid-October. Although these timelines do not synchronize with the admissions schedules of the Indian +2 boards (ISC / CBSE / HSC), IGCSE students may seek provisional admission to them on the basis of the predicted grades.
Notwithstanding the above position, the timelag between the announcement of IGCSE results and the class XI admissions timelines in India acts, to some extent, as a limiting factor with respect to options within the Indian curriculum.
It is also pertinent to note that students who pursue programmes like the IB Diploma, GCE 'A' level and so on, after their IGCSE class X, will also have the option to study with universities in India.
Further information on the IGCSE Programme may be found at www.cie.org.uk
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