COVID-19 updates for Cambridge International Schools, North America

Good afternoon colleagues,

We hope you are all well and staying safe during this unprecedented time in our history. As you are aware, the situation with the Covid-19 outbreak is changing rapidly in countries around the globe, including in the United States.  As we have continued to evaluate our options for moving forward, we want you all to know that our first priority has, and continues to be, the safety of our students and educators. Your safety is the number one concern without exception. 

May/June 2020 exam series: Cambridge Upper Secondary (IGCSE) and Cambridge International AS and A Level

As mentioned earlier today, many more countries have decided to extend school closures into May and June, making it impossible for many schools to hold examinations. Therefore, we have made the difficult decision not to administer our international paper-based examinations in the May/June 2020 series in schools in any country.

We understand and recognize that schools and students have worked hard to prepare for these exams, and we will recognize that effort.  With that in mind, students’ mastery of their course of study and all the work put into this year will be awarded accordingly.  Students will receive a grade as if they had sat for the exam.  All certificates from Cambridge International, including the Cambridge AICE Diploma, will be awarded to qualified candidates.  Additionally, the grades, certificates and diplomas received this year will carry the same weight and prestige as those awarded in the past.  We have been engaged with universities worldwide, and they are factoring these unprecedented circumstances into their admissions decisions, so students can continue with their education journeys as soon as possible.  Students will not face a disadvantage as a result of these extraordinary circumstances.

Cambridge IGCSE, AS & A Level, and Cambridge AICE Diploma
Every entry for the May/June series will receive a grade and if they have fulfilled the requirements, students can still receive the Cambridge AICE Diploma. Further guidance on how students will receive these grades will be released later this week. For the time being, we ask that you please continue with current instruction as in past years, and refrain from making any changes to your current entry information, until Cambridge International communicates next steps.
 
AICE Diploma Eligibility:  Please know if you choose to have us calculate a grade for your students, the grade received can be applied to fulfilling requirements for the AICE Diploma like any other year. As in past years, scholarships associated with the award of an AICE Diploma will be available.

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