Estimated entries - general queries

What are estimated entries?
Estimated entries are your calculation of how many candidates you will enter for exams. We use estimated entries to work out which materials and question papers you need for exams that take place before the main exam period.

Some early exam materials are despatched based on estimated entries, so it is important that you make the estimated entries by the deadline for the series to receive your early materials before the main exam period. 

You do not give any candidate details with your estimated entries, so you still need to make final entries (see Handbook section 2.3). The fees we charge are based on your final entries only.

How do I work out my estimated entries?

Work out your estimated entries based on the number of candidates studying the subject or the number you are expecting to have. If you are unsure whether you are going to enter any candidates for an exam, make at least one estimated entry. This will make sure you receive one set of early exam materials.

Why is it essential to make estimated entries?

Certain syllabuses and components may require key examination materials to be despatched to schools before the deadline for the submission of final entries. This would include entries which consist of oral examinations, or a science practical examination. In these cases, Cambridge requires an estimated entry to be sent indicating the overall number of candidates expected to sit these components - this is to ensure the necessary materials can be despatched.

Cambridge does not require estimated entries for every syllabus entry option, and the Estimated Entry Form lists only those syllabuses where an early despatch of examination materials is scheduled. Schools do not need to submit estimated entries for subjects which are not listed on the Estimated Entry Form, or for entry options which are greyed out on the form.

If we do not have your estimated entry information, it will affect our ability to meet published schedules for sending these materials to you.

How do I make estimated entries?

You can find the relevant form in the Support Materials section of your Cambridge International Direct in April for the November series and September for the following June series. The forms list the syllabuses and components for the examinations that are timetabled before the main series.

Please send your completed form to info@cambridgeinternational.org.

What is the deadline for estimated entries?

The estimated entry deadline for the June examination series is 10 October, and the deadline for the November examination series is 10 May.

We appreciate that there may be major changes in student numbers for any syllabuses or options after your estimated entries have been submitted. If this is the case, please inform us by email info@cambridgeinternational.org.

What if my school is not planning on making any entries?

If you do not intend to enter any students at all, you should fill in your centre number and tick the Nil Entry box on the second page of the estimated entry form and return it to Cambridge.