Let’s say you always wanted to study abroad, so wouldn’t you wanna make it easy for you in the future so that you can finally make your dream come true? Well, that is precisely what the IGCSE board offers to the students in India. The International General Certificate of Secondary Education, short for IGCSE board, was introduced in the country back in 1988 by the University of Cambridge International Examinations. The thing with this education board is that once you have passed your examinations, you’ll automatically be eligible for the A-level qualifications in US and UK universities. And that truly is a dream for many in India, right? But you shouldn’t be making the decision to pursue the rest of your studies through the IGCSE board in an instant. You gotta know about the benefits and drawbacks of it too. That’s why we are here with a list of the possible advantages and disadvantages of the IGCSE board. Here we go.
Advantages of IGCSE Board
Let’s get started with what’s really good with the IGCSE board, shall we?
1. Global Recognition and Mobility
So, let’s say you have cleared up some examinations through the IGCSE board and then you wanna enroll yourself in higher, especially global universities, right? Well, in this case, it would be much easier for you to get yourself into higher global universities, and even to land a good job. So yeah, if you wanna see yourself there in the future, and are excited about international education or career opportunities, then pursuing your studies with the IGCSE board would be a great idea, no doubts about that at all.
2. Critical Thinking and Practical Approach
See, in India, the most famous education board is for sure the CBSE board. Right? But the problem with the whole CBSE education system is that it mainly focuses on rote learning and that’s why the students aren’t able to develop critical thinking. But it is quite the opposite in the IGCSE board, you see. When doing your studies through the IGCSE board, you’ll be specifically taught to use the information you are learning. The entire curriculum of the IGCSE board is designed in such a way to allow students to practically use the information, instead of just stuffing their minds with the info that they’re never gonna or never be able to use in real life.
3. Diverse and Rich Curriculum
Unlike the other education boards in the country right now, the IGCSE curriculum is something else that you might have never seen before. We are talking about as many as 70 or possibly more subjects available for the students to choose from. Now, that is something we want in the CBSE and other education boards in our country, don’t we? And if you are wondering why this thing is even a benefit of the IGCSE board, then know that this way the students can find their true passion and career path instead of just being stuck with subjects that you can count on your fingertips.
4. Flexible Assessment System
Now, the thing about the IGCSE board is that it doesn’t just stick to one way of testing you out. No, sir. It’s all about mixing things up. Whether you’re the kind who likes writing long answers or someone who’s more into showing what you know through projects, IGCSE has got you covered. This way, it’s not just about what you know, but also about how you show it. Pretty neat, right?
5. Preparation for Higher Education
Let’s face it, the IGCSE board isn’t playing around when it comes to setting you up for university. It’s tough, sure, but it’s the kind of tough that makes you a pro at handling stuff on your own. You get what we mean? It’s all about making you the kind of learner who doesn’t just wait around to be spoon-fed. And that, my friends, is exactly what the big university folks are looking for.
6. Language and Cultural Exposure
And yeah, the IGCSE education board is not just about the usual math and science stuff. They throw in a solid mix of languages and literature too. Why? Well, because the world’s a big place, and knowing your way around different cultures and tongues is kind of a big deal now. It’s about getting that global edge, you know? With IGCSE, you’re not just learning; you’re becoming a world citizen.
Disadvantages of IGCSE Board
Alright, now you might be like “There must be some drawbacks of the IGCSE board.” Right? Well, you bet! There are some:
1. English Everywhere, and That’s a Problem
Okay, let’s get this straight. The IGCSE board is all about English. Now, that’s cool and all, but what if English isn’t your first language? Think about it for sec though, students from different language backgrounds might find this a tough nut to crack. It’s like being a fish out of water, isn’t it?
2. Where’s the Coursework At?
Here’s the thing with the IGCSE, it’s missing coursework. You know, the kind that helps students who shine in ongoing projects and hands-on stuff. This lack of coursework means some students don’t get to show off their real strengths. Kinda unfair, don’t you think?
3. Transition to Other Curriculums
So, imagine you’re in the IGCSE boat and wanna hop over to a different educational system. Well, brace yourself, it’s not gonna be smooth sailing. The teaching style, the way they do exams, it’s a whole new world. Students might feel like they’ve jumped into the deep end without a life jacket.
4. Not Everyone Can Get On Board
Yeah, there are tons of benefits for signing up with the IGCSE board, but the main drawback is that the education is not cheap, at all. Unlike the other education boards in India, the cost of pursuing your studies with the IGCSE board will make you feel broke, and that’s no good thing. So yeah, in a way, we can say that the education provided by the IGCSE board is nowhere near accessible, especially considering that not everybody’s parents are super rich, you know.
Conclusion
That’ll do it. Now you must be a lot clearer in your head about whether or not to pursue your studies through the IGCSE board, right? And if you are a parent, trying to make an informed decision as to whether or not to enroll your kid in the IGCSE board, we hope that our post has helped you in some way with that.
Rahul Kumar is a passionate educator, writer, and subject matter expert in the field of education and professional development. As an author on CoursesXpert, Rahul Kumar’s articles cover a wide range of topics, from various courses, educational and career guidance.
