Home | IGCSE – International General Certificate of Secondary Education

IGCSE – International General Certificate of Secondary Education

Foundations of Excellence

As a leading British school in Singapore with a unique focus on Business and STEM, Westbourne’s IGCSE programme develops key skills valued by top universities and employers worldwide. This strong academic foundation equips students to thrive in the IB Diploma Programme and gain a competitive edge for university admissions and future careers in fast-growing global industries.

Led by a faculty where more than half of teachers hold PhDs, our award-winning educational model and intentionally small cohorts create an environment where every student is known, valued, and supported individually to achieve exceptional academic outcomes.

Developed by Cambridge International Education, the IGCSE is one of the world’s most popular international qualification for students aged 14 to 16. It offers the depth and rigour needed for academic success in higher-level studies, including Westbourne’s exceptional IB Diploma Programme.

“Westbourne is very efficient. Our school hours are spent productively, and I feel accomplished by day’s end. Our teachers also make lessons memorable and exciting. I have really been enjoying my time at school and look forward to going and getting to work every day. Finally, the curriculum is very comprehensive. I covered a lot of ground in a short time, which was helpful in preparation for IGCSE.” Gabriel, IBDP 2026 Graduate (2024)

STEM & Business-centric

IGCSE Programme in singapore

Westbourne’s IGCSE programme prepares students for success in Business and STEM fields. Our curriculum combines real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, along with a strong foundation in business principles and entrepreneurship.

Through industry visits to leaders like Google, 3M, and Bloomberg, and hands-on experience at forums like EDUtech 2024 and the Chamber Of Commerce’s Sustainability Dialogue, students develop strategic thinking, creativity, and confidence, preparing for impactful careers in a dynamic global landscape.

IGCSE subjects available at Westbourne College (Singapore)

Our IGCSE core subjects include:

English Language
Chinese Language
Mathematics
Additional Mathematics
Economics
Business Studies
Computer Science
Global Perspectives
Physics
Biology
Chemistry

*Our team will work with you to select the best subjects for your future success. If you have other subject ideas in mind, please do let us know during the application process.

Westbourne Singapore IB Diploma student experimenting with a microscope

Westbourne College (Singapore) Google Visit 2024

Professional Office

Environment for IGCSE learners

As an elite international school in Singapore, Westbourne redefines education by treating students as young professionals and delivering our British school education in a professional office environment that mirrors the modern business world.

With an intentionally small school size, a typical 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio, and a non-uniform policy, we cultivate responsibility, professionalism, and independence from an early age. This environment fosters academic success, collaboration, and enterprise skills, similar to the culture of a tech startup or top consultancy.

Discover our campus for young professionals

“Through the help I have received at Westbourne College Singapore I feel more focussed. I am more prepared for my future than ever before.” Yu, IGCSE 2023 Student, who achieved A* in Mathematics (2024)

Global Learning

EXPERIENCE

Our IGCSE students experience a unique global learning environment, with expert instruction from educators in Singapore and subject specialists in the UK and Sydney through holographic technology. This approach ensures access to diverse viewpoints, world-class teaching, and robust academic support. Students engage in collaborative projects with peers across campuses, enhancing their critical thinking, creativity, cultural understanding, and teamwork skills.

Discover our global opportunities

Hear from a Westbourne parent

Hear more student and parent success stories

A Rigorous Foundation

for the ib diploma programme

The IGCSE programme at Westbourne offers a rigorous academic pathway that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to excel in the IB Diploma. Rooted in our 129-year tradition of British academic excellence, the IGCSE combines a broad curriculum with a focus on critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent learning. This strong foundation prepares students to thrive in the IB Diploma and beyond.

Explore the IB Diploma

Our Dedicated

Westbourne Teachers

Our experienced teachers play a vital role in the IGCSE journey, offering tailored support to help students succeed. By understanding each student’s strengths, goals and aspirations, they provide guidance that prepares students for academic success and nurtures key life skills, including communication, adaptability, critical thinking, and confidence.

Meet our teachers

“The staff not only do an incredible job at supporting their students but they also are able to ignite an excitement about learning to ensure the students thrive. They truly cared about my childs’ learning outcomes and went above and beyond to help her achieve her personal and academic objectives.”
Rosie (parent), 2024

“Westbourne has provided a fantastic schooling experience. The small class sizes ensure everyone is engaged and can ask questions frequently. Teachers focus on all students, which has been incredibly beneficial. For anyone focused on academics, Westbourne offers unparalleled support and opportunities.”
Gabriel, IBDP Student (2024)

Westbourne teacher guiding a formerly homeschooled student on their work

Visit us

We warmly invite families to experience the Westbourne difference by visiting us. Discover our professional learning environment and award-winning approach that fosters both academic excellence and personal growth.

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FAQs

Who is eligible to apply for the IGCSE Programme?

We welcome students from across the globe at Westbourne College (Singapore), there are some key points to be aware of which are specific to the IGCSE course, designed for students typically aged 14 – 16 years

IGCSE Singaporean students: the IGCSE course is a secondary school equivalent course, our team will support you with applying to the Ministry of Education. The MOE requirement does not apply to the IB Diploma Programme, nor is it required for eligible international students.

International students: This course is open to all students who hold a Long-Term Visit Pass, Dependant’s Pass, or Singaporean PR.

Language requirements: The course is taught in English, for students who may not meet the academic English requirement to sit IGCSE exams, EAL support is available throughout the year.

Course length: The standard 1-year IGCSE examination course starts in the middle of August and continues until the Cambridge IGCSE exams in May/June of the following year. Students joining the foundation pathway may seek entry.

Is English as an Additional Language (EAL) support available?

For students who may not use English as their primary language, we offer full support with English as an Additional Language lessons, tailored to the needs of the individual.

For our 2-year course, we offer English A2/B1 level entry. The 1-year course offers English B1 level entry.

We will discuss this with you during the application process.

What is the teacher-to-student ratio?

As an intentionally small school, our typical teacher-to-student ratio for the IGCSE programme stands at 1:6, and it will not exceed 1:20.

What is the admission criteria?

IGCSE Programme Year 1

Academic Requirement: Completed Year 8 of Secondary School (Secondary 2 in Singapore) or equivalent education and completed 8 years of formal education. Student must have taken at least 4 subjects including English and Mathematics.
Language Requirement: Passing grade in English at Year 8 level of Secondary school or equivalent.
Satisfactory completion of Westbourne College (Singapore)’s internal assessment:
- Aptitude, English, and Math (each test will take no more than 1 hour)
- Interview with Principal

IGCSE Programme Year 2

Academic Requirement: Completed Year 9 of Secondary School (Secondary 3 in Singapore) or equivalent education and completed 9 years of formal education. Student must have taken at least 4 subjects including English and Mathematics.
Language Requirement: Passing grade in English at Year 9 level of Secondary school or equivalent.
Satisfactory completion of Westbourne College (Singapore)’s internal assessment:
- Aptitude, English, and Math (each test will take no more than 1 hour)
- Interview with Principal

What is the promotion criteria?

The promotion criteria applies to Year 9 progressing to Year 10, and Year 10 progressing to Year 11:

Achieving a passing grade in at least 4 examinable subjects.
Achieving a 90% present rate for daily attendance.

How is the Course Delivered and Assessed?

Both IGCSE Programme Year 1 and Year 2 will be delivered in an in-person, tutorial-style format, ensuring personalised learning and engagement. Students will undergo periodic class assessment, in addition to final examinations at the end of each semester.

Industrial attachments are not required as part of the IGCSE Programme.