We review all of our syllabuses regularly to make sure they continue to meet the needs of learners, schools and higher education institutions around the world. We have updated this syllabus and all assessment materials to improve how learners demonstrate their ability in written and spoken Spanish. These changes are for examination from 2021.
How has the syllabus changed?
We have kept the familiar features of the syllabus that are valued by teachers and schools worldwide. The 2021 syllabus develops language proficiency at Level A2 with elements of B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEFR).
- The vocabulary list has been updated.
- We have revised the assessment objectives.
- The syllabus content section now includes the sub-skills learners are expected to develop.
For more information on the framework and language proficiency levels, visit the CEFR website.
How has the assessment changed?
- Updated assessment objectives now align with relevant CEFR level descriptors and ‘can do’ statements.
- The Speaking test (Paper 3) has been updated. Candidates will complete one role play and two topic conversations.
- We have made it clearer which sub-skills are assessed in each paper and have included these in the syllabus document.
When do these changes take place?
The updated syllabus is for examination from June 2021 onwards. Please see the 2021 syllabus above for full details.
Coming soon
We are developing a wide range of support to help you plan and teach the 2021 syllabus.
Support
Look out for a comprehensive range of materials to help you teach the updated syllabus including a scheme of work, Example candidate responses, Learner and Teacher Guides as well as specimen paper answers. These resources will be available from April 2019 onwards (before first teaching) through our School Support Hub.
Endorsed resources
View the latest resources that are being developed for the Cambridge IGCSE Spanish syllabus (7160).

Cambridge IGCSE Spanish (Collins)
This course provides comprehensive coverage of the Cambridge IGCSE Spanish syllabus. With a clear structure and engaging content, the topic-based units allow for language and skills to be taught in context.
Read more on the Collins website

Cambridge IGCSE Spanish (Hodder)
Strengthen language skills and cultural awareness with a differentiated approach that offers comprehensive coverage of the revised Cambridge IGCSE Spanish syllabus for examination from 2021.
Read more on the Hodder website

Cambridge IGCSE Spanish (Cambridge University Press)
Promotes intercultural awareness with a focus on Spanish as a world language. The skills-based approach helps students develop meaningful language skills. Written completely in Spanish, these resources immerse students in language and culture.
Read more on the Cambridge University website

Vocab Express Cambridge IGCSE Spanish (Collins)
For learner support. Vocab Express is an online platform for schools that encourages students to learn foreign language vocabulary independently. This course is based on the vocabulary list for Cambridge IGCSE Spanish.
Read more on the Collins website