Is pseudocode part of the IGCSE Computer Science syllabus?

Yes. Pseudocode remains part of the 2026–2028 Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science syllabus. Cambridge has removed pseudocode from the syllabus for examinations from 2029 onwards.

What programming language is used in IGCSE Computer Science?

For the 2026–2028 syllabus, students should follow the programming language and requirements specified by their school and Cambridge syllabus. From 2029 onwards, Cambridge has specified Python 3 as the only language for teaching, assessment and programming questions.

IGCSE Computer Science 0478 & 0984: Complete Guide, Syllabus & Exam Preparation

Q: What is the difference between IGCSE Computer Science 0478 and 0984?

Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0984 is the 9–1 graded version of the Computer Science syllabus. Cambridge states that 0984 is otherwise the same in content as 0478. Students should check their school's syllabus code and grading route before preparing.

Q: What is the IGCSE Computer Science exam structure for 2026–2028?

For the 2026–2028 syllabus, Paper 1 is Computer Systems and Paper 2 is Algorithms, Programming and Logic. Each paper carries 50% of the qualification. Paper 2 includes a scenario-based question.

📌 This guide explains Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 and 0984, including the current 2026–2028 syllabus and the major changes beginning with examinations from 2029.

What is Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science?

Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science develops computational thinking, problem-solving, algorithms, programming and an understanding of computer systems and emerging technologies. It provides a foundation for further study in Computer Science and related areas.

Cambridge offers Computer Science under syllabus codes including 0478 and 0984. The two codes should not be treated as completely different Computer Science syllabuses.

  Important: Cambridge states that IGCSE Computer Science
  0984 is graded from 9 to 1 but is otherwise the same in content as 0478.
  Always confirm the syllabus code and grading route entered by your school.

Difference Between IGCSE Computer Science 0478 and 0984

One of the most common questions from students and parents is: “What is the difference between 0478 and 0984?”

According to Cambridge, the key distinction is the grading scale. 0984 is the 9–1 graded version, while 0478 uses the A*–G grading scale. Cambridge states that the content is otherwise the same.

0478: Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science with A*–G grading.
0984: Cambridge IGCSE (9–1) Computer Science.
Content: Cambridge states that 0984 is otherwise the same in content as 0478.
Preparation: Students should follow the syllabus code and examination year entered by their school.

  Tip: Do not choose study material based only on the syllabus code.
  Check the examination year as Cambridge has introduced substantial syllabus changes for examinations from 2029.

IGCSE Computer Science 2026–2028 Exam Structure

For the current 2026–2028 syllabus, Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science consists of two written papers.

📘 Paper 1 – Computer Systems

Paper 1 assesses knowledge and understanding of computer systems and related concepts. It accounts for 50% of the qualification.

💻 Paper 2 – Algorithms, Programming and Logic

Paper 2 assesses algorithms, programming and logic. It accounts for 50% of the qualification and includes a scenario-based question.

  Important for 2026–2028: Pseudocode remains part of the syllabus.
  Do not use preparation material designed specifically for the 2029–2031 syllabus
  without checking which examination year it covers.

Complete IGCSE Computer Science Syllabus Topics

The 2026–2028 Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science syllabus covers the following broad areas:

1) Data Representation

Binary, denary and hexadecimal
Text representation
Image representation
Sound representation
Data storage and file size

2) Data Transmission

Packets and packet switching
Transmission methods
Transmission media
Error detection and correction
Security considerations

3) Hardware

CPU components and functions
Primary and secondary storage
Input and output devices
Types of computer
Embedded systems

4) Software

Operating systems
Utility software
Types of programming language
Translators
Integrated development environments

5) The Internet and Its Uses

Internet concepts
World Wide Web
Web technologies
Internet security
Digital communication and online services

6) Automated and Emerging Technologies

Automated systems
Robotics
Artificial intelligence
Emerging technologies
Social, ethical and environmental considerations

7) Algorithm Design and Problem-Solving

Algorithms
Problem-solving techniques
Flowcharts
Pseudocode
Trace tables
Testing and validation

8) Programming

Variables and constants
Data types
Input and output
Selection
Iteration
Arrays and strings
Subroutines
File handling
Validation and testing

9) Databases

Database concepts
Tables, records and fields
Primary keys
Database queries
SQL

10) Boolean Logic

Logic gates
Truth tables
Boolean expressions
Logic circuits

How to Prepare for IGCSE Computer Science

Successful preparation requires both conceptual understanding and regular practice. Students should divide their preparation between theory, algorithms, programming and examination practice.

Understand concepts: Learn why a technology or algorithm works instead of only memorising definitions.
Practice algorithms: Work regularly with pseudocode, flowcharts and trace tables for the 2026–2028 syllabus.
Practice programming: Develop programs involving selection, iteration, arrays, strings, subroutines and validation.
Use past papers: Practise answering questions under examination conditions.
Review mistakes: Keep track of recurring errors and revise those concepts.
Follow the correct syllabus year: Make sure your notes and practice papers match your examination year.

Programming Preparation for IGCSE Computer Science

Programming is an important part of the algorithms and programming component. Students should develop the ability to understand a problem, design an algorithm, write a solution, test it and correct errors.

Useful Programming Areas to Practise

Variables and data types
Input and output
Selection and conditions
For and while loops
Arrays and strings
Subroutines
Searching and sorting concepts
Validation and testing
File handling

  Remember: The exact programming requirements depend on the syllabus
  and examination year. Always prepare from the Cambridge syllabus applicable to your
  examination session.

2029–2031 IGCSE Computer Science Syllabus Changes

Cambridge has announced significant changes for the syllabus used for examinations from 2029 onwards.

Pseudocode has been removed.
Python 3 is specified as the only language for teaching, assessment and programming questions.
The syllabus places greater emphasis on practical, real-world programming.
New and expanded areas include topics such as AI, machine learning, networking and emerging technologies.
The Paper 2 assessment structure has been redesigned.
Calculators are allowed under the new syllabus.

  Important: These changes should not be applied to students taking
  examinations under the 2026–2028 syllabus. Always check the syllabus year before
  choosing study material.

Common IGCSE Computer Science Preparation Mistakes

Studying only theory without solving programming and algorithm questions.
Memorising definitions without understanding their applications.
Ignoring trace tables and algorithm tracing.
Practising from a different syllabus year.
Starting past-paper practice only shortly before the examination.
Not reviewing mistakes after completing practice questions.

A balanced preparation plan should combine theory revision, programming practice, algorithm questions and past-paper analysis.

Why Students Choose Personal Tuition for IGCSE Computer Science

Computer Science requires students to apply concepts rather than simply memorise information. Personal tuition can provide structured practice and individual feedback according to a student's current level.

Individual attention for difficult topics
Programming and algorithm practice
Past-paper guidance
Identification of recurring mistakes
Exam-oriented revision
Support with theory and problem-solving

📞 IGCSE Computer Science Tuition with Amit Sir

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Recommended Pages for IGCSE Students

FAQ – IGCSE Computer Science 0478 & 0984

What is the difference between IGCSE Computer Science 0478 and 0984?

Cambridge states that 0984 is the 9–1 graded version of the Computer Science syllabus and is otherwise the same in content as 0478. Students should check the syllabus code and grading route entered by their school.

What is the exam structure for 2026–2028?

The 2026–2028 syllabus has two papers: Paper 1, Computer Systems, and Paper 2, Algorithms, Programming and Logic. Each paper carries 50% of the qualification.

Is pseudocode required for the 2026–2028 syllabus?

Yes. Pseudocode remains part of the 2026–2028 syllabus. Cambridge removes pseudocode from the syllabus beginning with examinations from 2029.

Is Python compulsory for the 2026–2028 syllabus?

The 2026–2028 syllabus should be followed according to the programming requirements applicable to the student's course and examination. From 2029, Cambridge specifies Python 3 as the only language for teaching, assessment and programming questions.

What programming topics should I practise?

Students should practise core programming and problem-solving skills such as variables, data types, selection, iteration, arrays, strings, subroutines, validation, testing and file handling, according to the applicable syllabus.

Do past papers help with IGCSE Computer Science preparation?

Past papers can help students become familiar with question formats, practise applying concepts and identify areas that need further revision. They should be matched to the correct syllabus and examination year.

Does Amit Sir provide IGCSE Computer Science tuition online?

Yes. Amit Sir provides online IGCSE Computer Science tuition with programming practice, theory preparation, exam guidance and past-paper support.