Cambridge International Program
The Cambridge International Program states on its website that “Education works best when curriculum, teaching and learning, assessment, and supporting resources are closely aligned, fostering personal development, emotional well-being, and physical health.” Cambridge defines its key strengths as its international curriculum, teaching and learning approach, assessment framework, global recognition, diverse subject offerings accepted by universities worldwide, a community of 10,000 schools in 160 countries, and active engagement with parents and students. The Cambridge website provides extensive, research-based documentation, reflecting the influence of the University of Cambridge, one of the world’s leading research institutions.
A defining characteristic of the Cambridge International Program is its alignment with students’ age, cognitive development, and physical growth while maintaining strong continuity between the different levels of education.
The program consists of five internationally standardized curriculum levels, four of which are implemented in secondary schools:
Cambridge Primary (Ages 5-11): A six-year foundational education program.
Cambridge Lower Secondary (Ages 11-14): A three-year program that provides essential knowledge, preparing students for the Cambridge IGCSE curriculum. Cambridge has continuously expanded its subject offerings for both Primary and Lower Secondary levels. As of 2024, each program includes twelve subjects, a threefold increase over the past decade.
Cambridge IGCSE (Ages 14-16): The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) is one of the most prestigious programs worldwide for this age group. Students can choose from over 70 subjects, including more than 30 foreign languages, based on their interests, talents, and future career aspirations. Subjects are categorized into different groups, and students who pass exams in at least seven subjects from designated groups receive the ICE (International Certificate of Education).
The IGCSE is recognized by:
• 811 universities and colleges in the United States
• 16 institutions in Singapore
• 57 institutions in Canada
• 18 institutions in Australia
Cambridge Advanced (Ages 16-19) – AS & A Levels: The Advanced Subsidiary (AS) and Advanced (A) Level programs offer 55 subjects. Students who accumulate seven credits from designated subject groups qualify for the AICE Diploma (Advanced International Certificate of Education).
• AS Level subjects count as half a credit
• A Level subjects count as one full credit
Cambridge A-Level examination results play a crucial role in admission to highly competitive universities. Successfully passing these exams ensures smooth transition into any higher education institution worldwide, often allowing credit transfers, saving both time and tuition costs.
The AS & A Level certificates hold high value, with recognition from:
• 971 universities and colleges in the United States
• 20 institutions in Singapore
• 61 institutions in Canada
• 59 institutions in Australia
Cambridge International Examinations:
Cambridge International students take standardized global examinations at various stages of their education:
• Cambridge Primary Checkpoint
• Cambridge Lower Secondary Checkpoint
• Cambridge IGCSE
• Cambridge AS Level
• Cambridge A Level
Subjects at the Primary and Lower Secondary levels offer both exam-based and non-exam-based options, whereas IGCSE, AS, and A-Level subjects all offer formal examinations. Students receive certificates and diplomas upon successfully completing their assessments.
Cambridge International examinations take place under rigorous security measures between April and June each year and exams are graded by
Cambridge Professionals in England. Key procedures include:
• Secure exam storage: All exam materials are stored in a 24-hour monitored, restricted-access facility.
• Isolated exam rooms: Examination halls are completely separated from other classrooms.
• Supervised administration: Qualified exam invigilators conduct exams under strict Cambridge regulations.
• Immediate sealing & shipping: Once completed, exam papers are sealed in front of students and sent via express courier to Cambridge’s international assessment center in the UK.
Any breach of examination protocol may result in the school losing its Cambridge accreditation. To prevent violations, Cambridge representatives conduct unannounced visits during exam sessions.
The high level of oversight and strict protocols ensure the credibility and global recognition of Cambridge International qualifications.