What is the difference between IGCSE Chinese as a second language 0523 and IGCSE Mandarin Chinese foreign language 0547?

The main difference between the syllabuses is the language level being assessed, as they are designed for learners who have had different levels of exposure to Chinese.

0523 IGCSE Chinese as a Second Language is designed to be taken by learners whose first language or mother tongue is not Chinese, but for whom Chinese is used widely in the speech community. This is for non-native speakers of Chinese who may be learning in an environment where they are exposed to Chinese and where it is used for certain communicative functions. For example, candidates may be learning Chinese in Hong Kong or Singapore, where they will encounter Chinese on a daily basis, or they may use the language regularly at home with relatives.

0547 IGCSE Mandarin Chinese Foreign Language is designed to be taken by learners who would usually only learn the language in lessons and have no previous experience of Chinese. This might be in a situation where Chinese is not normally used for communication, for example, Chinese as a foreign language in the USA.

We would recommend that you look at specimen papers for both syllabuses to help decide which syllabus would be more suitable for your learners.