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What is IGCSE Combined Science? | Complete Guide to Curriculum, Exam Format, and Further Study
What is IGCSE Combined Science?
IGCSE Combined Science is a science subject offered by the Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) for students aged 14 to 16. This course combines Biology, Chemistry, and Physics into a single, integrated curriculum. It is ideal for students interested in science but not planning to take all three sciences separately. The course builds a solid foundation for future studies such as A-Levels or the IB Diploma Programme.
📚 IGCSE Combined Science Curriculum Content
🔬 Biology Highlights:
- Cell structure and function
- Nutrition and the digestive system
- Respiration and the circulatory system
- Reproduction and genetics
- Ecosystems and environmental protection
⚗️ Chemistry Highlights:
- Atomic structure and the periodic table
- Chemical bonding and molecular structure
- Acids, bases, and neutralization
- Reaction rates and energy changes
- Basic organic chemistry
🧲 Physics Highlights:
- Force and motion
- Energy, work, and power
- Heat transfer and thermal energy
- Electricity and magnetism
- Waves (sound and light)
The Combined Science curriculum is concise and focused, covering the fundamental concepts across all three science subjects, helping students build scientific literacy.
📝 Exam Structure and Assessment
The Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science assessment typically includes the following papers:
| Paper | Type | Duration | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Multiple Choice | 45 minutes | 40 |
| Paper 3 | Structured Questions | 1 hr 15 mins | 80 |
| Paper 5 or 6 | Practical or Alternative to Practical | 1 hour | 40 |
Students can choose either the Core (grades C to G) or Extended (grades A to E)* level based on their ability and academic goals.
🎓 Further Study and Career Relevance
✅ Who should take Combined Science?
- Students who enjoy science but prefer not to take three separate science subjects
- Those planning to pursue non-STEM university courses (e.g., business, arts, humanities)
- Students who want a balanced schedule across subjects
✅ Where is it recognized?
- Entry-level qualification for A-Level or IB science (varies by school)
- Widely accepted by universities in the UK, USA, Australia, and Canada
- Provides international academic value
📖 Study Tips and Resources
- Set weekly goals by topic, such as “Cells and Tissues,” “Chemical Reactions,” or “Forces and Motion”
- Practice past papers to become familiar with question styles and timing
- Create summary notes and charts for formulas and key concepts
- Use high-quality resources such as the Cambridge textbooks, Physics & Maths Tutor, and Save My Exams
💡 Expert Tips
- If you aim to study A-Level Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, it’s recommended to take the full single-science subjects instead
- Combined Science is a solid choice for students with weaker math/science skills who still want a basic science foundation
- Choose the Core level if aiming for a moderate grade, or Extended level if targeting an A or A*