Cambridge O Level Cambridge Secondary 2
Overview
Cambridge O Level, part of the Cambridge Secondary 2 stage, is typically for 14-16 year olds. Cambridge O Level is an internationally recognised qualification equivalent to the UK General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). Cambridge O Level provides learners with excellent preparation for academic progression to Cambridge Advanced including Cambridge A/AS Levels and Cambridge Pre-U.
Cambridge O Levels have been designed especially for an international market and are sensitive to the needs of different countries. These qualifications are designed for learners whose first language may not be English and this is acknowledged throughout the examination process. The curriculum also enables teaching to be placed in a localised context, making it relevant in various regions.
A balanced curriculum
The Cambridge O Level curriculum places emphasis on broad and balanced study across a wide range of subjects. The curriculum develops learners' skills in creative thinking, enquiry and problem solving and is structured so that learners attain both practical skills and theoretical knowledge. In some parts of the world, schools use Cambridge O Level as an international alternative to the local government's examination. Universities in many countries, including Canada and the USA, will admit learners on the basis of their Cambridge O Level performances alone.
Assessment
Cambridge O Levels are normally taken after completing the two-year course and a variety of methods including written, practical and oral are used to assess learners. Learner performance is benchmarked using five internationally recognised grades (A-E). Grade A is awarded for the highest level of achievement, and grade E indicates minimum satisfactory performance. CIE runs two sessions for Cambridge O Level - May/June and October/November, although some subjects are only available in May/June or October/November.
Cambridge progression
Cambridge Secondary 2 forms part of the Cambridge International Education offering routes candidates can follow from post-kindergarten stage through to university entrance. Cambridge's provision also includes first-class support for teachers through publications, online resources, training, workshops and professional development.
| Cambridge Primary (5-11 years) |
Cambridge International Primary Programme Cambridge ICT Starters |
| Cambridge Secondary 1 (11-14 years) |
Cambridge Lower Secondary Programme Cambridge Checkpoint Cambridge ICT Starters |
| Cambridge Secondary 2 (14-16 years) |
Cambridge IGCSE Cambridge O Level Cambridge ICE |
| Cambridge Advanced (16-19 years) |
Cambridge International A/AS Levels Cambridge AICE Cambridge Pre–U |
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