Moving schools or countries? How to switch curriculum without losing marks
Switching between IB, IGCSE, A-Level, CBSE or ICSE mid-year is common for international families. A simple catch-up plan.
Concept clarificationIB, IGCSE, A-Level, Cambridge, Edexcel, CBSE, ICSE & ISC, OtherMathematics5 min read
Relocating mid-year means arriving in a classroom where the topics, order and exam style are different. Students who plan the switch lose far fewer marks.
1. Get the new specification
Ask the school for the syllabus or specification and a sample paper. This tells you what is expected, in what order.
2. Compare it with what you already know
Make three lists: topics you have already covered, topics that are new, and topics that are covered differently. The new and different ones are your catch-up work.
3. Rebuild the basics first
A new board often assumes foundation topics from earlier years. Fill any gaps there before moving on to the advanced material.
4. Learn the exam style
Work through past papers from the new board and read the mark schemes. The same topic can be tested in a different way.
5. Get one-to-one help early
A tutor who knows both curricula can map the differences quickly and build a short plan. Starting in the first few weeks gives the most time to catch up.