IGCSE Biology
Cambridge IGCSE Biology introduces cells, organisms, human physiology, plants, ecology, and genetics, building scientific knowledge and investigative skills.
Difficulty
Moderate
Popularity
73%
Past questions
3
Study tips
5
Key Topics
Exam Format & Dates
May/June & October/November, annually
~3 hours 30 minutes across 3 papers
Grades A*–G (or 9–1 in some regions)
C / Grade 4 = standard pass | A*/9 = highest
| Section | Duration | Content | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 2/4 — Multiple Choice | 45 minutes | 40 MCQ | 30% |
| Paper 4 — Theory (Extended) | 1 hour 15 minutes | Structured questions | 50% |
| Paper 6 — Alternative to Practical | 1 hour | Experimental questions | 20% |
Exam Breakdown & Insights
Difficulty · Challenging
Popularity score
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Study Tips
- 1
Review required practicals and data-analysis skills — experimental questions appear on nearly every paper.
- 2
Make concept maps connecting topics — modern exam questions frequently cross unit boundaries.
- 3
Draw and label diagrams for every major process — reproducing them from memory is a powerful test of understanding.
- 4
Work through Cambridge past papers and mark schemes — examiner wording is consistent year to year.
- 5
Read examiner reports: they tell you exactly which mistakes cost students marks last session.
Past Exam Questions
Define Characteristics of Living Organisms and state the key facts a student must know, using precise scientific terminology.
Explain the mechanism behind Cells: describe what happens and, crucially, why it happens. Include a labelled diagram where appropriate.
Design an experiment (or interpret given data) to investigate Enzymes & Nutrition. Identify the variables, describe the method, and explain how you would analyse the results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕
Using vague everyday language where precise scientific terminology is required.
- ✕
Ignoring units and significant figures in calculations.
- ✕
Cramming content while neglecting experimental-design and data-analysis questions.
Official Resources
Free, official study material for IGCSE Biology — always start with the source your exam board publishes.
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