If you plan to sit Cambridge IGCSE as a private candidate, your independent exam centre is the party that handles your entry. Cambridge sets the rules, the centre follows them, and you need clear answers before you commit.
This page gives you the questions to ask, who is responsible for each part, and where to check. It supports the private-candidate readiness checklist and sits in the exam guidance section.
Who is responsible for what?
- Cambridge publishes the rules for private candidates and the syllabus for each subject.
- The exam centre accepts your entry, submits it to Cambridge, runs the exams on its premises and tells you about results and any enquiries.
- You choose the subjects, confirm the details and follow the centre’s instructions.
We are a tuition team. Our role begins when you want help learning the material.
What should you read before you call a centre?
Open Cambridge’s page on private candidate responsibilities and its page on how to register as a private candidate. Read both fully, then write down anything you do not understand.
Next, find your subject codes using our guide to finding the correct syllabus. You will sound clearer on the phone, and the centre can answer faster.
Which questions should you ask the centre?
Copy this list into a note and record each answer with the date.
Entry and subjects
- Do you accept private candidates for the subject and code I want? Is any component not available?
- Can you confirm the route, such as Core or Extended, that I can be entered for?
- If my subject has coursework, a practical or a speaking element, how is that arranged for private candidates?
Sessions and timing
- Which exam sessions can I enter through you?
- What is your own closing date for entries, and what happens if I miss it?
The centre sets its own local arrangements, so always ask. See checking local deadlines and sessions for how to verify them.
Fees and paperwork
- What is the full fee, what does it cover, and when is it due?
- What identity documents do you need, and how do you handle them?
- What is your refund or withdrawal policy?
Exam day and after
- Where and when will the exams take place, and what should I bring?
- How will I receive my statement of entry, timetable and results?
- If I need access arrangements, who applies and how early? See access arrangements checking.
- How do I ask about a result I am unsure of? See the results and enquiries route.
A sample note to keep
| Question | Centre’s answer | Date asked | Confirmed in writing? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject and code accepted | (write the answer) | (date) | Yes or no |
| Sessions available | (write the answer) | (date) | Yes or no |
| Centre entry closing date | (write the answer) | (date) | Yes or no |
| Total fee and what it covers | (write the answer) | (date) | Yes or no |
Fill the table as you go. A blank “Confirmed in writing?” cell is your reminder to ask again.
What should you not do?
Do not send your identity documents to anyone who is not your chosen centre, and do not assume a centre’s answer for one subject holds for another. Keep your statement of entry safe, and use our statement of entry checklist once it arrives.
How does tuition fit in?
Tuition and exam registration are separate services, as explained in tuition and examination registration. When your entry is confirmed, we can teach to the subjects and route on it. You can read how our one-to-one tuition and paid trial work when you are ready.
You may also find these guides useful: how to register as a private candidate and finding a Cambridge exam centre.