An Intro to Examination Boards: Cambridge, Edexcel, OxfordAQA, and IB
Sylbridge Team
9/6/20252 min read
Parents and students frequently ask about the differences between international examination boards. For teachers, a clear understanding of these boards is essential—not only for teaching but also for addressing queries on assessment methods, qualification pathways, and progression.
This article provides a concise overview of the major boards—Cambridge, Pearson Edexcel, OxfordAQA, and the International Baccalaureate (IB)—their qualifications, grade/year equivalences, and assessment styles.
With this revision, we also highlight the AS Level (Advanced Subsidiary Level), which is typically taken in Year 12 (Grade 11, age 16–17). It represents the first half of a full A Level. Students may take it as a standalone qualification or combine it with A2 units to achieve a full A Level.
AS Level vs IB Year 1: Key Differences
Parents often compare AS Level with Year 1 of the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), as both apply to students around age 16–17. However, the two have distinct structures and purposes:
AS Level:
Represents the first half of A Levels.
Students can either stop with an AS qualification or continue into A2 to complete a full A Level.
Focuses on depth in fewer subjects (usually 3–4).
Assessment is exam-heavy with some coursework in selected subjects.
IB Year 1 (IBDP):
Forms the first half of the two-year IB Diploma.
Students must study a broad range of six subject groups, alongside core components (TOK, Extended Essay, CAS).
Strong emphasis on continuous assessment, interdisciplinary learning, and global perspectives.
Assessment includes coursework, projects, and final exams in Year 2.
In short: AS Level = depth in a few subjects; IB Year 1 = breadth across disciplines.
Why This Matters for Teachers
Understanding these differences helps teachers to:
Align teaching strategies with each board’s assessment style.
Provide accurate guidance to parents and students on pathways and progression.
Prepare students for the specific skills demanded by each board—from exam technique to project-based learning.
Clarification on “Biannual” Exam Sessions
When an exam board is described as biannual, it means that the board offers two exam sessions each year (e.g., May/June and Oct/Nov for Cambridge; Jan and May/June for Pearson Edexcel).
Students are not required to sit exams in both sessions.
Each student normally takes their exam once per subject, in the session chosen by their school.
The availability of two sessions provides flexibility and allows students to re-sit if needed.
SYLBRIDGE OFFERS EXCELLENT TUITION AND ACADEMIC SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS ACROSS ALL THESE BOARDS — CAMBRIDGE, EDEXCEL, OXFORDAQA, AND THE IB.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is intended for general guidance only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, examination boards may update or revise their qualifications, assessment methods, or schedules at any time. Sylbridge does not accept any responsibility for errors, omissions, or any consequences arising from reliance on this content. For the most up-to-date and authoritative information, readers should always consult the official websites and documentation of the respective examination boards.
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