The CCSLC® curriculum is intended to provide certification for all students who complete secondary school in the Participating Territories. As such, a common core of subjects, comprising English, Integrated Science, Mathematics, Modern Languages and Social Studies, was developed to provide the learner with the competencies that will serve as a foundation for more advanced studies, the world of work and life as a citizen of the region.

The Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC®) examination is offered in January for re-sit and private candidates and in May/June for in-school candidates and private candidates. CSEC® subjects are examined for certification at the General and Technical Proficiencies. The General and Technical Proficiencies provide students with the foundation for further studies and entry to the workplace.

The Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE®) is designed to provide certification of the academic, vocational and technical achievement of students in the Caribbean who, having completed a minimum of five years of secondary education, wish to further their studies.