IGCSE Additional Maths 0606: papers, topics and how to prepare

Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics (0606) is a separate IGCSE that builds on IGCSE Mathematics. Its topics include calculus, logarithms and exponentials, vectors, series, and more advanced algebra and trigonometry. This guide explains how the course is assessed, what it covers, who it suits and how to prepare, using Cambridge's syllabus for 2025, 2026 and 2027.

What IGCSE Additional Maths is

Cambridge says the course requires a fluent and confident ability to solve problems in abstract mathematics. It builds on IGCSE Mathematics rather than replacing it: knowledge of the subject content of IGCSE Mathematics (0580) or IGCSE (9-1) Mathematics (0980) is assumed, including indices and surds. Those topics aren't tested directly, but they may be needed to answer questions on other topics.

Like other Cambridge IGCSE syllabuses, it's designed to require about 130 guided learning hours. Cambridge notes this is for guidance only, and the hours a student needs will vary.

How IGCSE Additional Maths is assessed

All candidates take the same two written papers. There's no Core and Extended split.

• Paper 1: 2 hours, 80 marks, 50% of the qualification. Structured and unstructured questions. No calculator allowed.
• Paper 2: 2 hours, 80 marks, 50% of the qualification. Structured and unstructured questions. A scientific calculator is required.

Both papers carry the same weight, so the non-calculator paper counts exactly as much as the calculator paper.

Both papers test two assessment objectives, each weighted at 45% to 55% of the qualification:

• AO1: knowledge and understanding of mathematical techniques.
• AO2: analysing, interpreting and communicating mathematically.

Two rules matter for every student:

1. Grades run from A* to E only. Grades F and G aren't available, so a candidate who doesn't reach the minimum mark for E is unclassified.
2. Candidates must show all necessary working. Cambridge states this in the syllabus, so method matters as well as the answer.

A List of formulas is printed in the exam papers, but Cambridge says not all required formulas are given. The syllabus content shows which formulas a student needs to know.

What IGCSE Additional Maths covers

The syllabus has 14 topics:

1. Functions
2. Quadratic functions
3. Factors of polynomials
4. Equations, inequalities and graphs
5. Simultaneous equations
6. Logarithmic and exponential functions
7. Straight-line graphs
8. Coordinate geometry of the circle
9. Circular measure
10. Trigonometry
11. Permutations and combinations
12. Series
13. Vectors in two dimensions
14. Calculus

Cambridge says the content is organised by topic and not in a teaching order, so schools can teach it in their own order.

Exam series and entry rules

Exams are available in the June and November series, and in the March series in India. Two more points:

• Candidates can't take IGCSE Additional Mathematics in the same exam series as Cambridge O Level Additional Mathematics (4037).
• The next syllabus, for exams in 2028, 2029 and 2030, keeps the same two-paper structure. Cambridge says it has no significant changes that affect teaching.

Two worked examples

These practice questions were written for this guide, not taken from an exam paper. Both are the kind of question a student should be able to do without a calculator.

Example 1: stationary points (calculus). Find the stationary points of y = x³ - 6x² + 9x + 1 and their nature.

• dy/dx = 3x² - 12x + 9 = 3(x - 1)(x - 3).
• dy/dx = 0 when x = 1 or x = 3.
• At x = 1, y = 1 - 6 + 9 + 1 = 5. At x = 3, y = 27 - 54 + 27 + 1 = 1.
• d²y/dx² = 6x - 12. At x = 1 it's -6, which is negative, so (1, 5) is a maximum. At x = 3 it's 6, which is positive, so (3, 1) is a minimum.

Example 2: the binomial expansion (series). Find the coefficient of x² in the expansion of (1 + 2x)⁵.

• The x² term is 5C2 × 1³ × (2x)².
• 5C2 = 10 and (2x)² = 4x², so the term is 40x².
• The coefficient is 40.

Is IGCSE Additional Maths right for your child?

Cambridge assumes knowledge of IGCSE Mathematics. Beyond that, whether to take the course is a school and family decision. These questions help:

• Is your child comfortable with algebra? Paper 1 allows no calculator, so algebra is done by hand.
• Can they fit it in? It's a full IGCSE in its own right, with about 130 guided learning hours, on top of their other subjects.
• Do they enjoy abstract problem-solving? Cambridge describes the course as requiring a fluent and confident ability to solve problems in abstract mathematics.

How to prepare

1. Secure IGCSE Mathematics first. Cambridge says IGCSE Mathematics topics such as indices and surds may be needed to answer questions on other topics.
2. Practise without a calculator. Half the qualification is the non-calculator paper.
3. Learn which formulas aren't given. Check the syllabus notes, and make a list of the ones your child must memorise.
4. Write out full working. Make it a habit in every practice question.
5. Use past papers from Cambridge. Cambridge publishes past papers, examiner reports and specimen papers on its website. Work through full papers under timed conditions once the content is covered.

FAQ

How many papers are there in IGCSE Additional Maths?

Two: Paper 1 (non-calculator) and Paper 2 (calculator). Each is 2 hours, 80 marks and 50% of the qualification.

What grades can you get in IGCSE Additional Maths?

A* to E. Grades F and G aren't available.

Is calculus in IGCSE Additional Maths?

Yes. Calculus is topic 14 of the syllabus.

Can a calculator be used?

Only in Paper 2, where a scientific calculator is required. Calculators aren't allowed in Paper 1.

Do you need IGCSE Mathematics to take Additional Maths?

Cambridge assumes knowledge of the content of IGCSE Mathematics (0580) or IGCSE (9-1) Mathematics (0980).

Get help from an IGCSE maths tutor

Our 124 tutors include 16 with examiner, marker or moderator experience, and 51% hold a teaching qualification. An IGCSE maths tutor can close algebra gaps, build non-calculator speed and work through Additional Maths past papers with your child. We'll match you with a tutor within a day, starting with a free, no-obligation Meet & Greet. There's no long-term contract.

Find an IGCSE maths tutor | Cambridge International maths tutoring | IGCSE past papers

Sources

• Cambridge International, Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics 0606 syllabus for 2025, 2026 and 2027 (assessment overview, AOs, content, List of formulas, entry rules, guided learning hours): https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/Images/662470-2025-2027-syllabus.pdf
• Cambridge International, Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics 0606 syllabus for 2028, 2029 and 2030: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/Images/745683-2028-2030-syllabus.pdf
• Cambridge International, Cambridge IGCSE Additional Mathematics 0606: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/view/cambridge-igcse-mathematics-additional-0606/
• Cambridge International, past papers, examiner reports and specimen papers: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/past-papers/