Key differences between IGCSE and ICSE Curriculum that you need to Know

1. Key differences between IGCSE and ICSE Curriculum that you need to Know Education plays an important role in the development of the nation. IGCSE and ICSE are considered among the top boards imparting education which are important in shaping the role of a child in making a better world. An Overview of ICSE The Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) is a common examination conducted at the national level by the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE). The test is designed to test students in the curriculum of General Education, as per the recommendations of the National Educational Policy. English is the main medium of instruction for all except in specific subjects of education. All the candidates generally have a total of six subjects. An Overview of IGCSE The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exam is also based on the English language, and was developed by the University of Cambridge International Examinations. This qualification is highly recognized in the UK. Since it is an international qualification, it is also widely recognized by institutions around the world.

2. IGCSE is a 2-year programme, with a very wide and flexible study schedule in which students can choose their courses (subjects) from 6 different subject groups. Students must have a minimum of 5 subjects from different fields, but they can also choose a maximum of 14 subjects if they want to take more courses. 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 consists of compulsory subjects, students from group 2 have to choose any 2 subjects out of 4, and students in group 3 can choose only 1 subject 11. ICSE results are calculated from the best of 5 out of 6, including English marks are compulsory. ICSE subjects are classified as follows: 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

3. 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 Students can also choose from a variety of other courses ranging from creative arts to social sciences. IGCSE is an English language course offered to prepare students for BTEC Level 3, A Level and the IB curriculum. Difference Between ICSE Syllabus & IGCSE Syllabus ICSE Syllabus The curriculum adopted by ICSE is more complete and comprehensive, giving equal importance to all areas (for example Science, Mathematics, Languages, Arts, Home Science, Agriculture, Fashion Design and Culinary Arts). Overall the ICSE curriculum (like languages) would give their students a slight edge in English. This will help them in some English based exams. IGCSE Syllabus IGCSE is more practical and application-based. It provides an opportunity to the students to choose courses according to their interest in the subjects of Science, Humanities, Languages and Mathematics. The courses also give them an opportunity to combine these subjects with components of fine arts, visual arts, theatre, technical drawing, music, film making, community service etc. The curriculum 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 wide spectrum of subjects which leads to all round development and are more challenging than Indian educational boards as it tests student's knowledge rather than memory and speed. Private Students ICSE syllabus does not allow private students to appear for the exam while IGCSE has space for private students.

4. Localized Content The IGCSE curriculum allows localized content to be taught in the respective fields while the ICSE focuses on a general learning goal with content. Level of IGCSE Vs. ICSE IGCSE is an international standard curriculum while ICSE is a national level examination offered in India. Grading in IGCSE Vs. ICSE Students with IGCSE merit based on 3 tier grading system. Grades are Distinction, Merit and Pass whereas ICSE Merit uses student marks. ICSE merit students are awarded grade A1 to E2 on the basis of 100 - 0 marks respectively. Existence ICSE board was started in 1986 while IGCSE board was formed in 1988. So, which one is better? It is important to understand that both exams have their advantages and disadvantages, and you can choose a course that best suits the student's preferences and strengths. For example:- If a student is very good at photographic memory, that would be ideal for rote learning - so if they choose ICSE, they will get very high grades and find themselves with great scores. Simply put, ICSE is great for students who want to pursue their higher education within the country. Since ICSE is more similar to IGCSE than other Indian boards, it will be easier to transition to IGCSE in the long run (for Grades 11 and 12), depending on whether the student wants to pursue higher education abroad. Gain additional skills and experience from Cambridge Board's differentiated approach.