If you’re a student (or a parent/guardian) preparing for IGCSEs, you’ve likely come across two big names: Cambridge (CAIE) and Edexcel. Both offer IGCSE Science courses, but with key differences that can impact how students learn, revise, and perform in exams.
In this post, we’ll break down the main differences between the two exam boards, and help you decide which course might suit you best. Whether you’re studying Biology, Chemistry or Physics — or all three — this guide is here to clarify your options.
1. Exam Structure: Modular vs Linear
- Cambridge IGCSE science courses are traditionally linear: you sit all your exams at the end of the course. There are three papers to sit – an extended answer paper, an ‘alternative to practical’ paper and a multiple choice question paper
- Edexcel IGCSE offers modular and linear options as of 2025. The new modular pathway means you can take exams in stages, which helps distribute the pressure over time. The modular courses are currently only available to schools and exam centres outside of the UK.
Why it matters: Modular exams can ease revision and reduce exam-day anxiety. However, some students prefer the structure of learning everything first, then sitting all exams together, as in the Cambridge and Edexcel linear model. We will be writing a more detailed blog post on the new Edexcel modular course soon.
2. Assessment Style & Difficulty
- Cambridge science papers are often viewed as slightly more challenging due to their wording and expectation of detailed knowledge application. The specification also covers a wider range of content compared to Edexcel.
- Edexcel tends to focus more on clarity, with a greater emphasis on applying knowledge in familiar scenarios.
Why it matters: If you’re confident with reading and interpreting complex questions, Cambridge might suit you. The Cambridge specification also introduces you to more content that you will then meet at A level or HL IB if you continue with any of the sciences at a higher level. For a slightly more accessible exam format, Edexcel could be preferable.
3. Coursework and Practicals
- Both boards now assess practical science through written exams, not coursework.
- Cambridge has a strong emphasis on experimental understanding.
- Edexcel provides clear practical guides and assesses techniques through structured questions.
Tip: Whichever board you’re following, make sure to revise practical skills thoroughly. Our revision guides and workbooks, available at SwH Learning, cover practical skills in detail for both Cambridge and Edexcel.
4. Availability & Recognition
- Cambridge IGCSEs are more commonly offered in international schools.
- Edexcel IGCSEs are widely available in the UK and internationally, particularly through private exam centres.
Both qualifications are equally respected by universities and sixth forms.
5. Subject Choices: Double or Triple Science?
Both boards offer:
- Double Award Science (Combined Science) = 2 GCSEs based on an average score across the three sciences
- Triple/Separate Science (Separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics) = Up to 3 GCSEs, individually awarded for each science
Check with your school or exam centre to see what’s offered and how results are reported. We will also write a detailed blog post on choosing which of these routes to take with your science exams.
Where to Find the Best Support
No matter which course you’re doing, we’ve got you covered:
- Download our expert-written revision guides and workbooks for Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSE science on www.swhlearning.co.uk.
- Watch all-in-one revision videos on our YouTube channel, Science with Hazel, where we cover each topic with clarity, visuals, and exam tips.
- Need more bespoke support? Contact us to find out more about our private tuition services with our experienced subject experts.
Conclusion: Which IGCSE is Best for You?
If you want a structured course with in-depth content and don’t mind a slightly harder exam style, Cambridge could be the right fit. If you prefer a clearer exam format or want the flexibility of modular assessments, Edexcel might suit you better.
Whichever you choose, consistent revision and the right resources are key. Start early, use our guides, and subscribe to Science with Hazel on YouTube for expert support every step of the way.
Explore our full range of IGCSE resources at www.swhlearning.co.uk
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: Science with Hazel