GCSE fact file
Do your options include GCSEs? Most people take GCSEs at key stage 4, often with one or two other qualifications.
You can also do GCSEs as part of the Diploma.
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Qualifications
- GCSE - one full GCSE
- GCSE Short Course - half a full GCSE
- GCSE Double Award - equivalent to two full GCSEs.
Subjects
Schools decide what subjects to offer. They can choose from over 50 different subjects. These range from English, mathematics and science to astronomy, citizenship studies and engineering.
Learning
Mostly classroom learning. Mix of theory and subject-based investigations. The amount of practical work depends on the subject.
Assessment
- Mix of written examinations and internal assessment.
- Achievement is graded A* to G.
- Some subjects have two tiers of assessment: Foundation and Higher. Your school will decide which tier you should do. Foundation tier leads to grades C to G. Higher tier leads to grades A* to D.
Where they lead
GCSEs will help you whatever you plan to do after key stage 4. You can use them to meet the entry requirements for General Certificate of Education courses (A/AS Levels), the Advanced Diploma, an Apprenticeship and jobs with training. Having GCSEs at grades C and above in English, mathematics and science gives you a much bigger choice of opportunities in the future.
What next?
Find out more about the subjects you may be able to do
