Mathematics (0580)
| Tier | Paper | Calculator | Time | Marks | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core | Paper 1 | Not allowed | 1 h 30 | 80 | 50% |
| Core | Paper 3 | Scientific calculator | 1 h 30 | 80 | 50% |
| Extended | Paper 2 | Not allowed | 2 h | 100 | 50% |
| Extended | Paper 4 | Scientific calculator | 2 h | 100 | 50% |
Core candidates take Papers 1 and 3; Extended candidates take Papers 2 and 4. All papers mix structured and unstructured questions, and a formula list is printed on page 2.
Additional Mathematics (0606)
| Paper | Calculator | Time | Marks | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Not allowed | 2 h | 80 | 50% |
| Paper 2 | Scientific calculator | 2 h | 80 | 50% |
Physics, Chemistry and Biology (0625, 0620, 0610)
| Component | Core | Extended | Time | Marks | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple choice (40 four-option questions) | Paper 1 | Paper 2 | 45 min | 40 | 30% |
| Theory (short-answer and structured) | Paper 3 | Paper 4 | 1 h 15 | 80 | 50% |
| Practical test | Paper 5 | Paper 5 | 1 h 15 | 40 | 20% (instead of Paper 6) |
| Alternative to practical | Paper 6 | Paper 6 | 1 h | 40 | 20% (instead of Paper 5) |
Every candidate takes one practical-type paper: the hands-on Practical Test (Paper 5) or the written Alternative to Practical (Paper 6). Both test the same experimental skills. Calculators may be used in all parts of the exam.
When the exams are
Cambridge sets exams in a June series and a November series, with a March series for centres in India. Schools enter their candidates; private candidates enter through an exam centre that accepts them.
Practise each paper type on Tutix: Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
The five ready-made IGCSE programs are drawn to scale, with their hours, on the Programs page.
Questions people ask
How many papers are in IGCSE Mathematics?
Each tier has two papers: Core Papers 1 and 3, Extended Papers 2 and 4. One paper at each tier does not allow a calculator.
What is Paper 6 in IGCSE sciences?
Paper 6 is the Alternative to Practical, a written paper on experimental skills, taken instead of the hands-on Practical Test (Paper 5). It is 1 hour and 40 marks, worth 20%.
Can I use a calculator in IGCSE Physics?
Yes. Cambridge's syllabus says calculators may be used in all parts of the examination.
How long is IGCSE Additional Mathematics?
Two papers of 2 hours and 80 marks each, worth 50% each: Paper 1 without a calculator and Paper 2 with a scientific calculator.
When are IGCSE exams held?
In the June and November series, and in March for centres in India.
Sources
- Syllabus 0580, IGCSE Mathematics, 2025-2027, Cambridge University Press & Assessment (version 3)
- Syllabus 0606, IGCSE Additional Mathematics, 2025-2027, Cambridge University Press & Assessment (version 1)
- Syllabus 0625, IGCSE Physics, 2026-2028, Cambridge University Press & Assessment (version 2)
- Syllabus 0620, IGCSE Chemistry, 2026-2028, Cambridge University Press & Assessment (version 2)
- Syllabus 0610, IGCSE Biology, 2026-2028, Cambridge University Press & Assessment (version 3)
- Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge University Press & Assessment (accessed October 21, 2026)
Keep reading
Cambridge IGCSE® and Cambridge International AS & A Level are trademarks of Cambridge University Press & Assessment, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this site.
