CAMBRIDGE IGCSE · SYLLABUS 0478 · AGES 14–16

IGCSE Computer Science

Ten units, two papers. Every unit has clear notes, live tools you can try, questions that mark themselves, and a test that predicts your grade.

Start with Unit 1 →Book a free demo lesson

Exam at a glance

Two written papers, no coursework

Paper 1 · Computer Systems50%

Units 1–6 · 1 h 45 min · 75 marks

Paper 2 · Algorithms, Programming and Logic50%

Units 7–10 · 1 h 45 min · 75 marks · ends with a 15-mark scenario

Paper 2 coding answers are in pseudocode, except the scenario question, which also accepts Python, Java or Visual Basic.

Paper 1 · Computer Systems

Units 1–6

1Data representationBinary, hexadecimal, two’s complement, text, sound, images and compression.16 sectionsBit flipperGrade test 2Data transmissionPackets and packet switching, serial and parallel, error checks and encryption.15 sectionsParity checkerGrade test 3HardwareThe CPU and the fetch–decode–execute cycle, devices, sensors, storage and network hardware.17 sectionsFDE simulatorGrade test 4SoftwareOperating systems, interrupts, high- and low-level languages, compilers and interpreters.11 sectionsCompiler vs interpreterGrade test 5The internet and its usesThe web, URLs, HTTP and HTTPS, cookies, digital currency and cyber security.12 sectionsURL journeyGrade test 6Automated and emerging technologiesAutomated systems, robotics and artificial intelligence.11 sectionsGreenhouse simulatorGrade test

Paper 2 · Algorithms, Programming and Logic

Units 7–10

7Algorithm design and problem-solvingDevelopment life cycle, decomposition, flowcharts, pseudocode, validation and trace tables.14 sectionsTrace table stepperBubble sortGrade test 8ProgrammingVariables, selection, loops, arrays, procedures, functions and file handling.16 sectionsPseudocode runnerGrade test 9DatabasesSingle-table databases, fields, records, data types, primary keys and SQL.8 sectionsSQL sandboxGrade test 10Boolean logicLogic gates, truth tables, logic expressions and circuits.8 sectionsGate playgroundCircuit simulatorGrade test

EXAM PREPARATIONSpecimen and past papersOfficial papers and mark schemes are published by Cambridge. Practise with them after you finish each topic’s grade test.Cambridge past papers →

COURSE DOCUMENTSSyllabus 2026–2028The full list of what you need to know, including the pseudocode guide used in Paper 2.Official syllabus →

NEED HELP?1-to-1 online lessonsStuck on a topic? Book a free demo lesson with a Computer Science teacher.Book a free demo →

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