IGCSE Computer Science 0478 — May-June 2024 Past Papers, Topics & Exam Tips
The Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science (0478) May-June 2024 session consisted of 2 papers across 6 variants. This page links to every question paper, mark scheme, grade threshold and session feedback document released by Cambridge for this session.
Study Resources for Computer Science
Prepare for your exam with these complementary resources:
0478 May-June 2024 Papers
0478 Paper 1 - Computer Systems
1 hr 45 min • 75 marks
0478 Paper 2 - Algorithms, Programming and Logic
1 hr 45 min • 75 marks
0478 May-June 2024 at a glance
- Papers: 2 (6 variants total)
- Grade thresholds: released by Cambridge (linked above)
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0478 Study Tips & FAQ
What are paper variants?
Cambridge releases multiple variants of each paper (e.g., Paper 11, 12, 13) to accommodate different time zones around the world and maintain exam security.
Which variant you sit is set by your school's administrative zone: in the November 2026 timetable, for 0478, Variant 1 is sat in Zones 1 and 2, Variant 2 in Zones 3 and 4, and Variant 3 in Zones 5 and 6. Which zones sit which variant differs from subject to subject, so ask your exams officer which zone your school is in.
All variants cover the same syllabus and have similar difficulty. Practice with any variant to prepare effectively for your exam.
How to use Mark Schemes effectively
Mark schemes show exactly how examiners award marks for each question. Understanding them helps you write answers that earn full marks.
Tips:
- Look for key words that must appear in your answer
- Note how many points are needed for each mark
- Understand the difference between "state" (brief) and "explain" (detailed)
Understanding Grade Thresholds
Grade thresholds show the minimum marks needed for each grade. They vary each session based on paper difficulty — harder papers have lower thresholds.
June 2024, option AX (components 11, 21), out of 150:
From the Cambridge grade threshold table, June 2024. Each option has its own thresholds: see every 0478 session.
How to use thresholds:
- Set realistic target marks based on your goal grade
- Track your practice paper scores against thresholds
- Remember: you don't need 100% for an A* — aim for consistency
- Compare thresholds across sessions to gauge difficulty trends
How to Use IGCSE Computer Science Past Papers
📝 Timed Practice
Complete papers under exam conditions. 0478 Paper 1 (Computer Systems) is 1 hr 45 min - practice finishing within this time to build exam stamina.
✅ Self-Marking
Use the mark scheme to score your answers. Look for marking points you missed and understand what examiners expect in Computer Science responses.
🎯 Grade Targets
In June 2024, an A* in IGCSE Computer Science needed 107 to 120 out of 150 (71% to 80%), depending on the option (Cambridge grade threshold table, June 2024). See the grade thresholds for every 0478 session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I download IGCSE Computer Science May-June 2024 past papers?
Are 0478 mark schemes included?
What papers are available for IGCSE Computer Science 0478?
What is the difference between paper variants 11, 12, and 13?
How can I practice these past papers effectively?
Continue Studying Computer Science
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