Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Computer Science (4CP0)
Combine computing principles with the practical application of computational thinking and programming.
Specification Issue 1, November 2016
Course structure and assessment routes
- Take both papers: a written principles exam and a computer-based practical exam. All questions are mandatory.
Main syllabus content
- Algorithms and programming
- Data representation, storage, compression and encryption
- Computer systems and logic
- Networks and the web
- Emerging technology, ethical and legal issues
Use Syllabus for the topic checklist. Where the qualification offers options, follow your chosen route rather than treating every option as compulsory.
4CP0 assessment structure
Use the route above to identify which components you take. Marks below are raw marks; the stated weightings determine their contribution to the award.
4CP0/01
Principles of Computer Science
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Marks
- 80
- Weighting
- 50%
4CP0/02
Application of Computational Thinking
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Marks
- 80
- Weighting
- 50%
Practical tasks on a computer plus written responses.
Key assessment information
- Both papers are externally assessed. Paper 2 offers Python, C# or Java and a pseudocode reference document. Its practical structure differs from Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science.
Official sources and verification
Checked 2026-09-04 against the official 4CP0 syllabus/specification (PDF). Specification Issue 1, November 2016.
Source PDF pages: 11, 12. PDF page positions may differ from printed page numbers.
IGCSEfy is an independent study aid. Check the full official document and your exam-paper instructions, especially exam-year options, equipment and centre arrangements. Older archive papers may follow an earlier syllabus.