Education plays an important role in the nation’s development.

IGCSE and ICSE are considered among the top boards offering education that are important in shaping a child’s role in making a better world.

An Overview of ICSE

The Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) is a general exam conducted nationally by the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE).

The exam is designed to test students in the course of general education, in accordance with the recommendations of the National Educational Policy. English is the main medium of language for all except the subjects specific to language education. All candidates generally have six subjects in total.

An Overview of IGCSE

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exam is also English language based, and it was developed by the University of Cambridge International Examinations. This qualification is highly recognized in the UK. As it is an international qualification, it is also widely recognized by institutions worldwide.

IGCSE is a 2-year program, with a very broad and flexible study program in which students can select their courses (subjects) from 6 different subject groups. Students need to have a minimum of 5 subjects from a variety of areas, but they can also select up to a maximum of 14 subjects in case they want to take on more coursework.

Difference between ICSE & IGCSE

Subjects of ICSE & IGCSE

ICSE Subjects

ICSE students have to study 6 subjects divided into three Groups 1, 2, and 3. Group 1 comprises mandatory subjects, from Group 2 students need to choose any 2 subjects out of 4, and in Group 3 students can choose only 1 subject out of 11. ICSE results are calculated from the best 5 of 6, with English marks being mandatory.

The ICSE subjects are categorized as below:

• Group 1 (Mandatory Subjects)

• English
• Second Language
• History/Civics & Geography
• S.U.P.W

• Group 2 (Any 2 subjects from the group)

• Maths
• Science
• Economics
• Commercial Studies

• Group 3 (1 subject from the lot)

• Technical Drawing
• Computer Applications
• Art
• Dance
• Carnatic Music
• Drama
• Yoga
• Economic Applications
• Instrumental Music
• Mass Media and Communication.
• Modern Foreign Language.

IGCSE Subjects

The main subjects under the IGCSE are:

• First Language
• Second Language
• Mathematics
• 1 or More Sciences Subjects.

The subjects are categorized into these groups:

• Languages
• Humanities and Social Sciences.
• Sciences
• Mathematics
• Creative, Technical, and Vocational.

The students can also select several other courses ranging from Creative Arts to Social Sciences.

IGCSE is an English language curriculum offered to students to prepare them for the BTEC Level 3, A Level, and IB curricula.

Difference Between ICSE Syllabus & IGCSE Syllabus

ICSE Syllabus

The syllabus followed by the ICSE is more complete and comprehensive, which provides equal importance to all fields (For example science, maths, language, arts, home science, agriculture, fashion design, and cookery). Overall ICSE syllabus (such as languages) will give a slight edge in English to their students. This will help them with a few exams based on English.

IGCSE Syllabus

IGCSE is more practical and application-based. It provides an opportunity for students to choose courses according to their interest in the subjects of science, humanities, languages, and maths. The courses also give them an opportunity to mix these subjects with components of fine arts, visual arts, theatre, technical drawing, music, film-making, community service, etc. The syllabus focuses on developing analytical thinking, communication skills, investigative abilities, problem-solving techniques, teamwork, independent research, and other qualities valued by all international universities. They have a wider spectrum of subjects that takes to all-round development and are more challenging than Indian educational boards as it tests student knowledge instead of memory and speed.

Private Students

The ICSE curriculum doesn’t allow private students to sit for the exam while IGCSE has room for private students.

Localized Content

The IGCSE curriculum allows localized content to be taught in the respective regions while ICSE is focused on a common study goal with contents.

Level of IGCSE Vs. ICSE

The IGCSE is an international standard curriculum while ICSE is a national-level exam offered in India.

Grading in IGCSE Vs. ICSE

IGCSE merit students are based on a 3 tier grading system. The grades are Distinction, Merit, and Pass while ICSE merits students use marks. The ICSE merit students are awarded Grades A1 to E2 spread out from 100 – 0 marks respectively.

Existence

The ICSE board started in 1986 while the IGCSE board was formed in 1988.

So, which one is better?

It is important to understand that both exams have their benefits and disadvantages, and you can select a syllabus that works with the student’s preferences and strengths. For ex:- If a student is very good at photographic memory, which would be ideal for rote learning – so if they choose ICSE, they will score very high grades and find themselves with great scores.

To state it in simple words, ICSE is great for students who are looking to pursue their higher education within the country. Since ICSE is more similar to IGCSE compared to other Indian boards, in the longer run (for Grades 11 and 12) it will be easier to transition to IGCSE, depending on whether the student wishes to pursue higher education abroad, or if they want to have the additional skills and experience from the differentiated approach of the Cambridge board.

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