Education is a crucial step in each learner’s life. And when it comes to selection of the right international board one name always comes in the list is “IGCSE ”.
The International General Certificate of Secondary Education or IGCSE is an internationally recognised and popular qualification.
It is developed by CAIE or Cambridge Assessment International Education. The board is applicable in many countries due to its practical learning approach, problem-solving , and global perspectives.
However, a lot of people wonder Is IGCSE Accepted in Indian Universities? In this blog we will explore every topic related to the question from its acceptance to possible challenges.
Let’s begin!
Contents
Is IGCSE Accepted in Indian Universities?
Yes, IGCSE is accepted in Indian universities. This is because it is a relevant body equivalent to Grade 10 in India.
However, there are some factors/conditions learners and parents should know. Here’s a breakdown:
IGCSE (Grade 10)
IGCSE is equally recognised by Indian boards such as CBSE , ICSE or state boards.
A student recently completed from IGCSE board has the opportunity to move in A-Levels , IB Diploma, or Indian Class 11th or 12th curriculum .
A-Levels (Post-IGCSE)
To take admission in Indian Universities for undergraduate courses, learners need to complete A-Levels. It is considered equal to learning in Grade 12 of CBSE, ICSE or state boards.
Acceptance by Universities
One of the best things is that most of the Indian Universities accept A-Levels for the admission of undergraduate courses.
However, learners should meet the eligibility criteria and subject requirements.
AIU Equivalence Certificate
AIU Equivalence Certificate, an official document which recognised of foreign degree or school qualification equivalent to Indian education .
Explore in detail about shifting from cbse to igcse .
5 Popular Indian Universities Accepting IGCSE Students
Most of the Indian universities recognised IGCSE + A-Levels qualification. Here, you can go through some of the most famous Indian Universities accepting IGCSE students:
1. Delhi University (DU)
Delhi University or DU can be the ideal choice for IGCSE students. The university accepts A-Level learners who have an AIU equivalence certificate.
For admission learners require the Central University Entrance Test. Remember, DU is highly competitive which needs intense preparation for a competitive exam.
2. Mumbai University.
Mumbai University is one of the popular destinations for IGCSE students shifting to Indian universities. It offers various undergrad courses such as Arts, Commerce, and Science streams.
Many IGCSE students prefer choosing commerce related subjects such as Bachelor of Management Studies and B.Com.
3. Christ University, Bangalore
Christ University in Bangalore also provides various opportunities to IGCSE students. However the university had one of the toughest entrance tests, personal interviews, and sometimes group discussions.
Taking admission in Christ University needs planning and strategy to crack the entrance exam. Some popular domain learners can prefer Business Administration, Psychology, Liberal Arts, and Media Studies.
4. Ashoka University, OP Jindal, FLAME, and Other Private Institutions
Learners can also take admission in other private institutes such as Ashoka University, OP Jindal, FLAME which are designed with international standard education.
However, the institutions rely on standardised tests such as SAT or ACT. It offers a flexible admission process which helps IGCSE students to enrol easily.
5. IITs/Medical colleges (with A-Levels + entrance exams)
Various professional IITs/Medical colleges accept IGCSE + A-Levels. But, the admission process is highly competitive and difficult.
- For IIT learners must study Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics at A-Levels and clear JEE Main + Advanced.
- On the other hand, for MBBS learners NEET with Biology, Physics, and Chemistry at A-Levels is compulsory.
Explore more about igcse curriculum .
Steps for IGCSE Students to Apply in Indian Universities
For successful admission of IGCSE student to Indian University go through these quick steps by step process:
1. Obtain equivalence certificate from AIU
First, learners need to apply for a certificate from AIU. Also, submit academic transcripts of IGCSE and A-Levels. It takes some time so remember to apply early.
2. Prepare required subject combination
Then prepare the required subject combination according to the degree or professional course learner wants to proceed in.
Some common combination IGCSE student choice are:
- Engineering: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics.
- Medicine: Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
- Commerce or Economics: Mathematics, Economics, Business.
3. Entrance exams (if required)
Based on course and other factors many Universities ask for entrance exams for admission. Given below are common exam students need to give:
- For IITs – JEE Main and JEE Advanced.
- For MBBS – NEET.
- For DU and State Universities – CUET
There are some private universities also available who conduct their own customised exam and interview session for admission.
4. Submit Transcripts
Gathering official transcripts from Cambridge International, migration and transfer certificate, submit all documents with the application form.
5. Apply Within Deadline
One must track all the notifications and update for example application deadlines of different Universities based on interest.
Early application is the best solution to get desired University.
Read on to learn more about igcse grading system .
Possible Challenges and Effective Solutions of IGCSE Students May Face in India
IGCSE students have wide opportunities in India. However, they may face various problem such as:
1. Need for Equivalence Certificate
There are many Universities who did not proceed further learning without an AIU equivalence certificate.
Learners can apply early and submit the required documents.
2. Competitive Entrance Exams Focus on CBSE Syllabus
One of the possible challenges IGCSE students deal with is competitive entrance exams such as JEE and NEET focused on CBSE syllabus .
Learners can take NCERT based classes which are a continuation of A-Level preparation for better results.
3. Limited availability of schools
Most of the IGCSE schools are in metropolitan cities which can restrict rural areas students.
However, online Cambridge School and blended learning can help in geographical limitations.
IGCSE vs Indian Boards for University Admissions
Here’s a simplified comparison of both IGCSE vs Indian Boards for University Admissions:
- IGCSE (10th) = CBSE/ICSE/State Board 10th.
IGCSE is equivalent to Grade 10 in India. This helps students to transition into A-Levels or Indian Grade 11.
- A-Levels = Equivalent to CBSE/ICSE/State Board 12th.
A-Levels is popular as equivalent Grade 12th for Indian university admissions. The official recognition is given by AIU.
Remember, each board and their learning experience is different and can be measured by its learning style , curriculum and other activities.
Conclusion
IGCSE is a recognised and acceptable body in India. It is accepted by most of the universities due to its AIU equivalence certificate.
Various popular universities in India such as Delhi University, Mumbai University, Christ University, Ashoka University, OP Jindal, FLAME University etc welcome IGCSE students in the campus.
However, remember to fulfil the eligibility criteria for a smooth admission process. So if you are an IGCSE student or a parent concerned about the future of their child, the answer is clear.
Yes, IGCSE is accepted in Indian universities. With the right steps and guidance one can build a successful future. Also, explore the benefits of the IGCSE board in India .
