Component 1 - Are there materials, topics, themes to avoid?

Yes, any submissions containing inappropriate, explicit or illegal content are not permitted. This includes but is not limited to sexually explicit content, abuse, torture, self-harm or injury. You are advised to contact Cambridge International if there is any doubt about the suitability of materials or themes

For submissions contacting drug use and its effects, violence, or other potentially challenging subject matter, our advice is that this topic/theme is unsuitable for assessment purposes. However, if you feel that the candidate is approaching the subject in a mature, appropriate and considered manner, and that they remain focused on the educational or artistic intentions of the work, you should be aware that Cambridge may contact the centre to seek reassurance regarding the candidate's safety and well-being, in line with our safeguarding obligations.

In some cases, work that contains inappropriate, explicit, offensive or otherwise unsuitable content may be referred for further review and could be considered maladministration or malpractice under Cambridge regulations. Centres are therefore strongly advised to guide candidates towards topics that can be explored safely and appropriately within the assessment context.

For more information, please refer to our safeguarding policy. Further information on safeguarding can be found at https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/about-us/our-standards/safeguarding/ and in the Cambridge Handbook.