It is a widely used, trusted and recognised externally assessed programme for 14- to 16-year-old learners worldwide. The knowledge and skills taught and assessed by the examination provide an excellent basis for post-16 study and can be used as part of university entry applications.

At Nexus, we work with both Cambridge and Edexcel awarding bodies. While there are slight differences in the syllabus content of Cambridge and Edexcel courses, they are viewed equally by educational institutions and employers. Learning Areas decide on the awarding body they work with based on the content most appropriate for our learners and context. The syllabus is chosen to support progression to the IB Diploma.

Courses from Edexcel are graded on a  9 - 1 scale. Those from Cambridge are graded on an A* - G scale. Each subject is awarded a grade, and any grade over a 4/C is considered a "good pass". Learners hoping to study the IBDP should aim to achieve a minimum of 5 "good" passes at IGCSE. For some IBDP Higher Level subjects, we require a higher IGCSE grade (this will be discussed in more detail at the Options Evening).