Retaking IGCSE Physics: What You Need to Know

If your IGCSE Physics result is lower than expected, you can retake the exam. Here is what you need to know.

When can you retake?

Cambridge IGCSE Physics 0625 is offered in two sessions each year: May/June and October/November. You can retake in either session. Some schools also offer the March session for specific regions.

How to register

If you are still in school, your school can register you for the next available session. If you have left school, you need to register as a private candidate through the British Council or a school that accepts external candidates.

Do you need to retake all papers?

You must retake all components (multiple choice, theory and alternative to practical). You cannot carry over marks from a previous session. Each session is assessed independently.

How to prepare differently

If you retake without changing your approach, you are likely to get a similar result. Consider what went wrong:

• Content gaps: Identify the topics where you lost marks. Revise those specifically.
• Exam technique: If you knew the content but lost marks on presentation, practise writing answers that match the mark scheme format.
• Time management: If you did not finish the paper, practise under timed conditions.
• Calculation errors: Develop a checking routine (formula, units, substitution, answer, unit).

Is it worth retaking?

Consider your target. If you need a specific grade for university or A Level entry, a retake is worthwhile. If your grade is close to the boundary, focused revision on your weakest areas may be enough to move up one grade.

Timeline

Allow at least 8 to 12 weeks of focused revision before the retake. Use this time to work through past papers and address specific weaknesses.