International schools are affiliated to the International Baccalaureate Programme and/or the Cambridge International Examinations.
The International Baccalaureate (IB), formerly known as the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), is an international nonprofit educational foundation headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Over time it has gained recognition and is now working with more than 3000 schools in 141 countries. Currently IB is limited to the metropolitans and large Tier-I cities in India and have been introduced in some new schools only.
Kinds of IB programme:
A school can only teach the following programmes if they are authorized by IB. It broadly runs three kinds of educational programmes, namely:
- a) Primary Years Programme for kindergarten to class 5.
- b) Middle Years Programme beginning from class 5 to class 10.
- c) Diploma Programme that comprises the final two years.
Features of IB:
The curriculum followed by the IB is different from the other existing boards as it doesn`t follow a rigorous text book method to teach candidates rather the students select their own set of books which they find fit for themselves. A student is not supposed to take any test or examinations until they reach class 10; this develops a stress free environment for the students and cumulates growth and evolution which is beyond any competition. It also has innovative teaching methods and special approaches which are widely accepted across the globe and assures positive results.
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE):
IGCSE is an English language curriculum developed by University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) that prepares students for International Baccalaureate, A Level and BTEC Level 3. IGCSE is conducted at Level Class 10, same as the Class 10 examinations of the CBSE and ICSE or the Middle years Programme of the IB.
IGCSE is one of the most sought-after and globally acclaimed qualifications. All around the world it is delivered across 140 countries and recognized by Ivy League universities, especially in UK. In India, the course is delivered in over 130 schools and is also recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) as being at par with CBSE, ICSE, and other existing boards. It provides special care for every individual and the programme is planned according to their capabilities and distinguished abilities. The course is well balanced and lends international perspective and introspection.
IGCSE Recognition:
Many universities worldwide require a combination of Cambridge International A Levels and Cambridge IGCSEs to meet their admission requirements. Cambridge IGCSE is similar to the GCSE in UK. IGCSE is popular among homeschoolers and adult students and it usually takes students typically in the age group 14-16. But sometimes, it also allows students from alternative education and adult students to sit for the exam and continue personal education advancement at any age.
IGCSE Subjects Offered:
IGCSE offers more than 70 subjects, the core subjects being English, Mathematics and Sciences. The Students are required to take a minimum of 5 or maximum of 14 subjects. Students can also choose other subjects ranging from Social Sciences (commonly Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Sociology) to Arts & Technology (commonly Computer Studies, Information & Communication Technology (ICT), Art & Design).
A Student is awarded with one IGCSE certificate for each subject. The number of subjects that needs to be taken depends upon individual preference and varies across different schools.
Grading system of IGCSE:
The IGCSE is graded on an 8-point scale from A* to G with a 9th grade “U” signifying “Ungraded”.
Features of IGCSE:
IGCSE is one of the most sought-after and globally acclaimed qualification. It encourages necessary educational skills, problem solving methods, team work, and concept building. It provides special care for every individual and the programme is planned according to their capabilities and distinguished abilities. The course is well balanced and lends international perspective and introspection.
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