Operating within the MYP aims and objectives, students at OFS have an opportunity in grades 9 and 10 to prepare for a maximum of seven subjects for the externally examined International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). This certificate is recognized internationally and can be used in many cases as a basis for qualification for tertiary studies.

Students follow a two-year course of study in each subject denoted by G1 in grade 9 and G2 in grade 10. Each course follows a prescribed syllabus set out by University of Cambridge International Examinations.

These courses form the core curriculum for grade 9 and grade 10 studies at OFS and provide an excellent foundation for the study of higher level courses, such as IB Diploma in grades 11 and 12.

Assessment
Students following IGCSE courses are assessed by the class teacher on a semester basis in accordance with the OFS internal assessment procedures for the award of credits for the OFS High School Diploma.

In addition to this internal assessment, students are assessed externally by the University of Cambridge for the award of an IGCSE Certificate indicating a level of achievement in each of their IGCSE subjects. This external assessment is achieved primarily by formal written examinations at the end of grade 10, administered by the school under University of Cambridge regulations.

All students completing G2 courses of study are required to undertake the external assessment procedures in appropriate subjects (including the IGCSE examination and any relevant coursework) unless a waiver is granted by the Principal.

Assessment Grades
The grades awarded in each subject by the Cambridge examining board range from Grade A* (Highest Level of Achievement) to Grade G (Lowest Level of Achievement). The certificate does not indicate a pass or fail in each subject. Students who display a high level of achievement in specific combinations of at least seven subjects may also be eligible for the prestigious award of the International Certificate of Education (ICE).

Late Entries
Students entering OFS after the commencement of grade 9 are encouraged to enter as many IGCSE classes as may be appropriate. This may involve students “catching-up” on work missed in these subjects. In cases in which IGCSE course selections may not be appropriate, other courses are available which are assessed for the internal credit system only.