If you’re choosing your science GCSE or IGCSE options, you’ve probably come across the terms Double Award and Triple Science. But what do they really mean? And how do you decide which route is best for you?
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between these two science pathways, who each one suits best, and how to make the right choice for your future.
1. What Is Triple Science?
Triple Science is sometimes called “Separate Sciences”. It means you’ll study Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as three separate GCSEs (or IGCSEs). Each subject is assessed individually, and you receive three separate grades.
- More content: Each subject covers a greater depth of knowledge.
- More exams: You’ll sit papers in each science discipline.
- More time: It usually takes up one more option block than Double Award.
Triple Science is often chosen by students who:
- Are strong in science and enjoy it
- Might want to take sciences at A Level or IB
- Are aiming for STEM careers (medicine, engineering, etc.)
2. What Is Double Award Science?
Double Award Science is also known as “Combined” or “Co-ordinated” Science. It still covers Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, but in less depth. The content is streamlined, and you receive two GCSE or IGCSE grades, based on your average performance across all three sciences.
- Less content overall: It’s easier to manage if science isn’t your strongest subject.
- Counts as two GCSEs: So it still holds value on your qualifications list.
- More time for other subjects: You can take an extra non-science subject.
Double Award is great for students who:
- Want to keep options open without specialising
- Prefer a lighter workload
- Are stronger in other subjects (e.g. languages, humanities)
3. Which Option Is Harder?
Triple Science is widely seen as the more challenging route, not because the exams are tougher, but because there’s more content to learn and revise. You’ll cover more topics in more detail and spend more time in science lessons.
However, this isn’t a reason to avoid it if you love science and want to pursue it further.
On the other hand, Double Award still requires strong exam skills and revision habits. It’s not an “easy” option, it’s just more balanced in terms of time and workload.
4. Will Universities or Sixth Forms Prefer One Over the Other?
For most college or sixth form applications, both routes are accepted.
However, if you’re aiming to study A Level Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, or go into a competitive field like medicine, veterinary science, or engineering, then Triple Science can be an advantage. It shows deeper subject knowledge and may give you a head start.
If you take Double Award, don’t worry! You can still go on to study science at A Level and beyond, as long as your grades are strong.
5. IGCSE vs GCSE: Does the Choice Still Matter?
Whether you’re studying IGCSE or GCSE, the decision between Double and Triple Science still applies. At SwH Learning, we support both Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSE courses — both of which offer these options.
Be aware that all the GCSE and IGCSE Double Award courses have some differences in assessment style and content depth. Cambridge IGCSE, for example, combines all three sciences in each exam paper that you sit. Edexcel IGCSE, however, is separated into exam papers for each specific science. Make sure you know which exam board you’re following so you can revise and practice accordingly.
6. How to Make the Right Choice
Here are a few things to consider before making your decision:
✅ Do you enjoy science?
✅ Are you good at retaining detail and understanding complex concepts?
✅ Do you want to keep science open as a future option?
✅ Are you comfortable taking on a heavier workload?
If you’re saying yes to most of the above, Triple Science might be right for you.
If you want to balance your workload, focus on other subjects, or just want a solid grounding in science without diving too deep, then Double Award is a smart and respectable choice.
7. How SwH Learning Can Help You Succeed
No matter which path you choose, SwH Learning has everything you need to revise, prepare, and feel confident in your science exams.
- 📘 Revision guides and workbooks for both Double and Triple IGCSE science courses — available at www.swhlearning.co.uk
- 🎥 Free All-in-one science videos covering Cambridge and Edexcel IGCSE content on our YouTube channel: Science with Hazel
- 🔍 Clear explanations, worked examples, and exam strategies to help you stay on track
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Double Award and Triple Science doesn’t have to be stressful. It’s all about what’s right for you.
Whatever your choice, stay consistent with revision, make the most of quality resources, and focus on building your confidence in science. With the right support, you’ll succeed no matter which route you take.
Explore our GCSE & IGCSE Science resources now at SwH Learning
And subscribe to Science with Hazel for free video tutorials!