Pearson Edexcel International GCSE History (4HI1)
Develop historical knowledge, interpretation and source analysis through selected depth, investigation and breadth studies.
Specification Issue 5, February 2026
Course structure and assessment routes
- Take both papers. Study at least two depth studies for Paper 1, and one historical investigation plus one breadth study for Paper 2.
Main syllabus content
- Depth-study options across European, American, African, Indian and international history
- Investigation options: First World War, Russia/USSR, USA, Vietnam or East Germany
- Breadth options spanning political, medical, social and international change
Use Syllabus for the topic checklist. Where the qualification offers options, follow your chosen route rather than treating every option as compulsory.
4HI1 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.
4HI1/01
Depth Studies
- Duration
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- Marks
- 60
- Weighting
- 50%
Two questions, one per selected depth study.
4HI1/02
Investigation and Breadth Studies
- Duration
- 1 hour 30 minutes
- Marks
- 60
- Weighting
- 50%
One investigation and one breadth-study question.
Key assessment information
- This is a linear qualification; both externally assessed papers are taken at the end of the course. Consult the specification for the full option lists and dates rather than treating every option as compulsory.
Official sources and verification
Checked 2026-09-04 against the official 4HI1 syllabus/specification (PDF). Specification Issue 5, February 2026.
Source PDF pages: 10, 11. 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.