IGCSE Computer Science tutor online (0478)
Taught for Cambridge (CAIE).
At a glance
Our IGCSE Computer Science tutors teach the full Cambridge 0478 syllabus: data representation, networks, hardware, software, cyber security, emerging technologies, algorithms, programming, SQL and logic gates. Live 1:1 or small-group online classes include regular Python and pseudocode practice, scheduled for students in the Gulf, the UK and Pakistan.
IGCSE Computer Science key facts
| Cambridge (CAIE) | Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478), 2 papers/components (official syllabus) |
|---|---|
| Cambridge May/June series | Exams run from late April to June; results are released in mid-August. |
| Cambridge October/November series | Exams run in October and November; results are released in mid-January. |
| Pearson Edexcel International GCSE series | Exams are offered in May/June for all subjects and in November for a smaller set of subjects. |
| Topics covered | 10 syllabus topics, with past-paper practice |
| Lesson format | Live online, 1:1 (60 min) or small group (75 min); first class free |
Facts last verified:
IGCSE Computer Science is chosen by students who enjoy logical problem-solving and are curious about how technology works, and it is a natural partner for Mathematics and Physics. In Gulf international schools it often sits alongside ICT, but it is far more about computational thinking than using software. The Cambridge 0478 course is split into computer systems, covering six theory topics, and algorithms, programming and logic, covering four practical topics.
Assessment is through two written papers of 1 hour 45 minutes and 75 marks each, worth 50% apiece, and there is no coursework. Paper 1 tests computer systems; Paper 2 tests algorithms, programming and logic, ending with a scenario question where students write a full solution in pseudocode or in Python, Visual Basic or Java. Calculators are not allowed in either paper, so number-base conversions and file-size calculations are done by hand.
The hardest parts for most students are designing algorithms from a written scenario, completing trace tables accurately, writing nested loops with arrays, and SQL queries. Theory answers lose marks when they are generic rather than linked to the context given. IGCSE Computer Science leads well into A Level Computer Science and is useful preparation for IB Computer Science, engineering and data-focused degrees, where structured problem-solving matters as much as coding.
How is IGCSE Computer Science (0478) examined?
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478)
Official syllabus from Cambridge (CAIE)| Paper | Duration | Marks | Weighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1: Computer SystemsShort-answer and structured questions on Topics 1–6; no calculators | 1 hour 45 minutes | 75 | 50% |
| Paper 2: Algorithms, Programming and LogicShort-answer, structured and scenario-based questions on Topics 7–10; no calculators | 1 hour 45 minutes | 75 | 50% |
Syllabus for examination in 2026, 2027 and 2028. Grades A* to G. A 9–1 graded version is 0984. Cannot be combined with O Level Computer Science 2210 in the same series.
Cambridge May/June series
Exams run from late April to June; results are released in mid-August.
Cambridge October/November series
Exams run in October and November; results are released in mid-January.
Pearson Edexcel International GCSE series
Exams are offered in May/June for all subjects and in November for a smaller set of subjects.
Exam facts last verified:
Plan your revision with our exam dates guide, the official IGCSE grade thresholds and where to find official past papers.
What topics are in IGCSE Computer Science?
- 1
Data representation
Forgetting overflow in binary addition and confusing logical with arithmetic shifts.
- 2
Data transmission
Describing packet switching without routers or reassembly, and mixing up echo checks with checksums.
- 3
Hardware
Explaining the roles of registers and buses vaguely, and confusing sensors with actuators.
- 4
Software
Listing operating system functions without explaining them, and mixing up interrupts with polling.
- 5
The internet and its uses
Explaining HTTPS, digital certificates or firewalls in generic terms.
- 6
Automated and emerging technologies
Describing robots or artificial intelligence without the specific characteristics the question asks for.
- 7
Algorithm design and problem-solving
Flowcharts with missing decision labels and trace tables with skipped steps.
- 8
Programming
Array index errors in nested loops, and procedures that do not return or output the result asked for.
- 9
Databases
Choosing an unsuitable primary key and writing SQL with the wrong syntax for conditions.
- 10
Boolean logic
Writing logic expressions that do not match the circuit drawn.
Not sure which fits? Chat on WhatsApp
How do our online Computer Science classes work?
Diagnostic
A short check of what your child already knows against the syllabus.
Topic teaching
Clear explanations on a shared whiteboard, one topic at a time.
Past-paper practice
Exam questions from your board, timed and marked to the mark scheme.
Feedback
What went well, what to fix and what to practise before next class.
How do you get top marks in IGCSE Computer Science?
Learn the Cambridge pseudocode conventions thoroughly, as Paper 2 uses them in every question.
Before writing code for the scenario question, list the inputs, the processing required and the outputs.
Annotate long answers with comments so partial solutions can still earn method marks.
In theory questions, link every point to the scenario's context rather than giving textbook definitions.
Practise binary, hexadecimal and file-size calculations without a calculator under timed conditions.
Dry-run your algorithm with sample data before moving on, to catch off-by-one errors.
How much does IGCSE Computer Science tutoring cost?
Prices shown in US dollars
- Recommended
One-to-one
Fully personalised to your child
USD 28 / class
- 60-minute live classes at times you choose
- A plan built from a diagnostic of your child's gaps
- Past-paper practice marked against the mark scheme
- Progress notes for parents
Small group
Up to 6 students, 8 live classes a month
USD 8 / class
- 75-minute live classes, 8 per month
- Taught to your exam board and syllabus code
- Weekly past-paper questions with feedback
- Class recordings and notes
Intensive exam prep
12 one-to-one classes a month before exams
USD 25 / class
- Three 60-minute classes a week
- Timed past papers and full mock exams
- Topic-by-topic weak-spot drills
- Pack discount of 10% applied
Prices are per class unless shown per month: one-to-one classes are 60 minutes and group classes 75 minutes. Your trial class is free and doesn't turn into a paid plan by itself. Pricing FAQ
IGCSE Computer Science FAQs
How many papers are there in IGCSE Computer Science 0478?
Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478 has two papers, each 1 hour 45 minutes long, worth 75 marks and 50% of the grade. Paper 1 covers computer systems and Paper 2 covers algorithms, programming and logic. There is no coursework, and calculators are not permitted in either paper.
What programming language is used in IGCSE Computer Science?
In Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0478, programming answers can be written in Cambridge pseudocode or in Python, Visual Basic or Java; other languages are not accepted. Students need to read and write the official pseudocode style as well. Our tutors teach Python for hands-on practice and map it to pseudocode throughout.
Is IGCSE Computer Science hard?
IGCSE Computer Science is challenging for students who have not practised programming, because Paper 2 requires writing correct algorithms under exam pressure. Students who code regularly and learn theory definitions precisely usually find it very manageable. Starting programming practice early in the course makes the biggest difference.
What is the difference between IGCSE Computer Science and ICT?
IGCSE Computer Science focuses on how computers work, algorithms and programming, while IGCSE ICT focuses on using software applications and the practical uses of technology. Computer Science suits students interested in programming, engineering or computing degrees. Schools sometimes offer both, and the choice depends on whether a student enjoys logic and coding.
Is IGCSE Computer Science the same as O Level Computer Science?
IGCSE Computer Science 0478 and O Level Computer Science 2210 have the same topics and paper format. The difference is the qualification and grading scale: IGCSE runs from A* to G, while O Level runs from A* to E. Cambridge does not allow candidates to take both in the same exam series.
How can I get an A* or a 9 in IGCSE Computer Science?
Students who achieve an A* or 9 in IGCSE Computer Science write precise, contextual theory answers and design correct algorithms confidently. Practise trace tables, SQL and full scenario questions under timed conditions, and compare your code with mark-scheme solutions. Our tutors support this practice, but we never guarantee results.
Still deciding? Ask us on WhatsApp
Related subjects and guides
- O Level Computer Science
- A Level Computer Science
- IGCSE Maths
- GCSE Computer Science
- IGCSE Add Maths
- All IGCSE subjects
IGCSE in the UAE & Saudi Arabia: A Parent's Guide to Boards, Exams and Tutoring
IGCSE in the UAE and Saudi Arabia explained: Cambridge vs Edexcel grading and tiers, exam series, British Council private entry and the 2026 disruption.
9 min readUpdated
IGCSE vs O Level: What's the Difference?
IGCSE and O Level are equivalent Cambridge qualifications. They differ in availability, grading (A*–G vs A*–E), subject range and IGCSE tiers.
10 min readUpdated
Try a free IGCSE Computer Science class
Tell us the curriculum and subject. We'll match a specialist tutor in your timezone.