specification overview
Cambridge IGCSE Combined Science (0653) is a linear qualification combining biology, chemistry and physics content in one qualification. It offers two routes: Core (grades C-G) or Extended (eligible for the full A*-G range), with a multiple-choice paper, a theory paper and either a practical test or alternative-to-practical paper. 0653 is graded on the A*-G scale only; there is no 9-1 version of 0653. The 9-1 combined-science equivalent from Cambridge is a separate qualification, 0973 Co-ordinated Sciences (Double Award).
subject content
B. Biology
All papers- Cells, movement into and out of cells, biological molecules
- Enzymes, plant and human nutrition, transport in plants and animals, diseases and immunity, gas exchange, respiration, drugs, reproduction
- Organisms and their environment; human influences on ecosystems
C. Chemistry
All papers- States of matter; atoms, elements and compounds; stoichiometry
- Chemical energetics, rates, acids and bases; periodic table; metals
- Air and water; organic chemistry (core subset only); experimental techniques
P. Physics
All papers- General physics (motion, forces, energy, work, power)
- Thermal physics; waves (light, sound); electricity
- Space physics (the Solar System, stars and the Universe)
assessment structure
| Paper | What's assessed | Length | Marks | Weight | Question types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (MCQ Core) | Core content (Biology + Chemistry + Physics) | 45m | 40 | 30% | 40 multiple-choice questions |
| Paper 2 (MCQ Extended) | Extended content | 45m | 40 | 30% | 40 multiple-choice questions |
| Paper 3 (Theory Core) | Core content | 1h 15m | 80 | 50% | Short-answer and structured questions across all three sciences |
| Paper 4 (Theory Extended) | Extended content | 1h 15m | 80 | 50% | Short-answer and structured questions across all three sciences |
| Paper 5 (Practical Test) | Practical skills | 1h 15m | 40 | 20% | Hands-on lab-based practical test |
| Paper 6 (Alternative to Practical) | Practical skills tested on paper | 1h | 40 | 20% | Written questions on practical scenarios (no lab) |
Combined Science covers less depth than each separate science but keeps all three subjects. Core route candidates sit Papers 1, 3 and 5 or 6 (grades C-G); Extended route candidates sit Papers 2, 4 and 5 or 6 (full A*-G range).
assessment objectives
| AO | What it means | Overall |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Knowledge and understanding of scientific facts, principles and concepts across biology, chemistry and physics. | 50% |
| AO2 | Handling information and problem solving. | 30% |
| AO3 | Experimental skills and investigations. | 20% |
higher vs foundation
| Aspect | Foundation tier | Higher tier |
|---|---|---|
| Grades available | Core: C to G | Extended: A* to G (full range) |
| Papers | Papers 1 (MCQ) + 3 (theory) + 5 or 6 | Papers 2 (MCQ) + 4 (theory) + 5 or 6 |
| Content depth | Core content only, less depth than separate sciences | Core + Extended (supplementary) content |
key tips for success
Cover all three sciences together
Combined Science tests biology, chemistry and physics in every paper. Don't over-focus on one, spread revision across all three.
Master the shared concepts
Some topics recur across sciences (energy, atomic structure). Learn once, apply everywhere.
Practise MCQ pace
Papers 1 and 2 are 40 questions in 45 minutes across all three sciences. Practise switching between subjects quickly.
Choose Paper 5 or 6
Paper 5 is real lab; Paper 6 is written alternative. Your school picks based on facilities.
Learn Core vs Extended distinctions
Extended-tier students need more depth in each science. Core-tier students have a lighter version.
Practise past papers
CIE Combined Science past papers are widely available. Do timed practice through the course.
Where to next
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