IGCSE Maths · Cambridge 0580 and Edexcel 4MA1
Your child is taking IGCSE Maths
Core or Extended, Foundation or Higher: how Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics and Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics A are assessed, and why the tier matters.
examinerprep.com1What IGCSE Maths is
The main maths qualification at ages 14–16 in many international schools, and the base for A Level or IB maths. Both boards use two tiers, so the entry decision matters.
Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics · 0580
Core or Extended
Graded A* to G. One paper in each tier is taken without a calculator.
Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics A · 4MA1
Foundation or Higher
Graded 9 to 1. A calculator is allowed on both papers.
2Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics (0580)
| Paper | Core | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| Non-calculator paper | Paper 1 · 1 h 30 min · 80 marks · 50% | Paper 2 · 2 h · 100 marks · 50% |
| Calculator paper | Paper 3 · 1 h 30 min · 80 marks · 50% | Paper 4 · 2 h · 100 marks · 50% |
| Grades available | C to G | A* to E |
| Who it suits | Students expected to reach grade D or below | Students expected to reach grade C or above |
Exam series: June and November (March in India).
3Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics A (4MA1)
| Paper | Foundation | Higher |
|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | 1F · 2 h · 100 marks · 50% | 1H · 2 h · 100 marks · 50% |
| Paper 2 | 2F · 2 h · 100 marks · 50% | 2H · 2 h · 100 marks · 50% |
| Calculator | Allowed on both papers | |
| Grades available | 5 to 1 | 9 to 4 (a 3 is allowed in some cases) |
Exam series: January and June. The Higher tier is needed for grades 6 to 9.
4How you can help
- Ask which tier your child is entered for and when the school decides: a Foundation or Core entry caps the grade.
- For Cambridge, make sure non-calculator arithmetic and algebra are practised regularly.
- Short daily practice is better than long weekend sessions; maths skills fade quickly without use.
- Use mock results to pick two or three weak topics to fix, rather than revising everything equally.
Sources: published syllabus and specification outlines for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics 0580 (2025–2027) and Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics A 4MA1.
ExaminerPrep is an independent tutoring service. It has been developed independently from and is not endorsed by the International Baccalaureate Organization, Cambridge University Press & Assessment or Pearson Edexcel. Course and qualification names are used for descriptive purposes only. Schools differ in how they schedule the courses: always check dates and requirements with your child’s school.