The IGCSE Certificate (Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education) is an internationally recognised educational programme for students aged 14-16. It is developed by the University of Cambridge, but is now taught in many schools and colleges around the world. 

It is highly regarded for its focus on academic excellence and its ability to prepare students for higher academic levels or for entry into the workplace. In some cases it is even demanded as an entry requirement for further studies, such as the baccalaureate or A-level programmes.

It provides a solid foundation of knowledge in a wide variety of subjects and contributes to the development of critical skills such as problem solving and analytical thinking. This enables the best results to be achieved in university studies and provides an important advantage in future careers.

But do you know how IGCSE works? What is it and what are the requirements to study it? What is its equivalent in the Spanish system? In this article we will explain everything.

Where to study IGCSE in Spain

There are several educational centres that provide the option to study the IGCSE programme in Spain. They are private, international or bilingual schools that have adopted the Cambridge curriculum and are mainly in cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.

It is very important to research and select a centre that is fully accredited by Cambridge to assure that it meets the quality standards required to deliver the IGCSE programme. In addition, it is advisable to contact educational institutions directly for specific information about their academic offer, prices and admission requirements.

The IGCSE programme at Hastings School (Madrid) is a true benchmark in high quality education in Spain. It is an international academic institution that offers students the possibility of obtaining the IGCSE Certificate, which is taught according to the highest Cambridge standards, guaranteeing a first class education.

Students who choose to take the IGCSE at Hastings School benefit from an academic approach that is focused at all times on excellence and preparation for further study. We have excellent and highly qualified teaching staff and an enriching learning environment that promotes active participation and the development of critical thinking.  

Upon completion of the IGCSE programme at Hastings School, students are awarded an internationally recognised certificate, which allows them to access educational and professional options around the world.

Requirements to study IGCSE

The requirements to study the Cambridge IGCSE programme may differ depending on each school, but in general terms, students must have completed their earlier secondary education and be in the age range of 14 to 16 years. They do not need to be fully proficient in English, but it is important that they have a sufficient level of proficiency to be able to follow the classes.

Below are some of the fundamental requirements that must be taken into account when submitting the application for admission:

Age requirements

  • Students usually start the programme between the ages of 14 or 15.
  • Most institutions require students to be at least 14 years old at the start of the programme.

Level of proficiency in English

  • The IGCSE programme is taught in English, so students are expected to have a level of competency that will allow them to understand and participate in classes.
  • Initial tests may be conducted to assess the applicant’s language skills.

Interview with students and parents

    • Some schools conduct interviews with students and their parents to determine whether the student fits the characteristics of the programme.
  • These interviews may also be used to assess the commitment and preparation of the student.

Academic documentation

  • Academic qualifications and references from previous teachers may be requested.

Level assessment

  • Some centres may conduct placement tests in mathematics and English in order to assign students to the appropriate programme.

Commitment and motivation:

  • Students need to be committed and motivated to take responsibility for their own learning, as IGCSE is a programme that requires a high level of autonomy.

In any case, it is advisable to investigate and consult the requirements and the admission process with the centre itself. It should be noted that the choice of a suitable school and the fulfilment of the requirements will go a long way to ensuring the success of the programme.

Equivalence of IGCSE in Spain

One of the highlights of the Cambridge IGCSE programme is its international recognition, including in Spain. It is widely recognised as the equivalent to the Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO) qualification. This means that students who obtain good grades can use their certificate to continue their studies at Baccalaureate level or even to enter university.

However, to guarantee the recognition of the IGCSE and its equivalence in Spain, it is necessary to homologate the certificate to confirm its uniformity to the corresponding academic level in Spain.

In summary, the IGCSE certificate is a highly prestigious academic programme that provides students with a high quality preparation and a solid foundation for higher education. In addition, its national recognition as equivalent to ESO also ensures that students can continue their education within the Spanish education system.