Back to Kings Life index

What are GCSEs: everything you need to know

10 Nov, 2024
What are GCSEs: everything you need to know

If you're considering studying in the UK or planning to transition from an international education system to the British one, you’ve likely encountered the term "GCSEs." But what exactly are GCSEs, why are they important, and how do they fit into the UK’s education system?

This guide will explain everything you need to know about GCSEs, from their significance to the subjects offered, grading systems, and how to select the right subjects.

Table of Contents

What are GCSEs?

Why are GCSEs important?

Which GCSE Subjects are mandatory?

What are the entitlement areas?

How many GCSEs do students need to take?

What is the GCSE grading system?

How to choose GCSE subjects

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are GCSEs?

GCSE stands for General Certificate of Secondary Education. GCSE qualifications are typically taken by students aged 14–16 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This period of education in the UK is known as key stage 4.

Essentially, GCSEs are academic qualifications designed to test and showcase the knowledge, skills, and understanding students have gained across a variety of subjects during secondary school.

For international students, GCSEs serve as an equivalent to high school diplomas or certificates in other education systems.

Why are GCSEs important?

GCSEs (formerly known as O-levels) are an important part of the British education system for several reasons:

  • Foundation for further education studies: They pave the way for Sixth Form and further study such as A-levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), or vocational vocational courses/apprenticeships.
  • University requirements: Universities often require a minimum number of GCSEs with specific grades in core subjects like Maths and English.
  • Career opportunities: Many employers use GCSE results to assess job applicants' qualifications, even for entry-level jobs.
  • Skill development: GCSEs teach essential skills such as time management, critical thinking, and subject-specific expertise.
  • International recognition: GCSEs are respected qualifications worldwide, making them particularly beneficial for students aiming to study or work abroad.

Which GCSE subjects are mandatory?

Every student must study specific core subjects to ensure they receive a well-rounded education. The following are mandatory in most schools:

  • Mathematics
  • English Language
  • English Literature
  • Science (this can split into the three separate sciences - Biology, Chemistry and Physics - or into two Combined Science GCSEs

Depending on the school, subjects like Physical Education (PE), Religious Education (RE), and Citizenship may also be included in the core curriculum, though not always as exam-based subjects.

What are the entitlement areas?

As well as the compulsory subjects, there are four ‘entitlement areas’ for the optional subjects.

Schools must also provide access to a minimum of one course in each of the four areas:

  • The Arts (Art and Design, Dance, Drama, Music)
  • Design and Technology (Electronics, Food Technology, Graphics, Resistant Materials, Systems and Control, Textiles and Product Design)
  • Humanities (Geography and History)
  • Modern Foreign Languages (French, German, Spanish, etc)

These areas ensure students can explore diverse fields, broadening their skills and interests.

How many GCSEs do students need to take?

Typically, students take around 8–10 GCSEs. However, the actual number varies depending on the school and the student’s capabilities.

Students aiming for competitive A-level or higher education (university) courses often take additional GCSEs to bolster their applications.

What is the GCSE grading system?

The GCSE grading system was revamped in 2017, shifting from the traditional A*-G grading scale to a 9-1 scale, with 9 being the highest grade. Here’s how it works:

Grades now range from 9 (highest) to 1 (lowest).

  • Grade 9 – the top mark is even higher than the old A*
  • Grade 8 – Below an A* but above an A grade
  • Grade 7 – Slightly below an A
  • Grade 6 – Slightly better than a B
  • Grade 5 – Below a B but above a C – considered a Strong Pass
  • Grade 4 – Equivalent of a C – standard pass grade
  • Grade 3 – Below a D but above an E
  • Grade 2 – Between an E and an F
  • Grade 1 – Between an F and a G
  • Ungraded – Lowest possible grade, it represents a fail

Practical courses like Dance, Drama and Art can be assessed through coursework. Other theoretical courses will rely more heavily, if not entirely, on an exam.

As is also the case with A-levels, there are different GCSE exam boards; official organisations that create, set and then organise the marking of exams.In the UK, there are 5 different exam boards for GCSEs. 4 of these operate primarily in England, these are AQA, Pearson Edexcel, OCR and WJEC under its English brand, Eduqas.

Then for Wales, the main exam board is WJEC on its own. The main exam board for Northern Ireland is CCEA.

Why did the GCSE grading system change?

The numerical grading scheme was introduced as part of a 2014 curriculum overhaul by the government at the time.

It put less emphasis on GCSE coursework than before, with grades in almost all subjects decided in final exams.

The qualifications were designed to be more challenging, with exams taken after two years of study. Previously pupils covered the syllabus through a series of modules with regular assessments throughout the course.

How to choose GCSE subjects?

Selecting the right GCSE subjects can feel overwhelming, especially for international students. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:

Consider your future career prospects

If you already have a career path in mind, make sure your subject choices align with that goal. For example:

  • Aiming to become a doctor? Choose Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
  • Planning a career in business? Consider Economics and Mathematics.

Focus on your interests and strengths

Subjects you enjoy and excel at are more likely to keep you motivated throughout the GCSE years.

Ask for advice

Speak to teachers, parents, or school counsellors. They can offer valuable insights into how different subjects can benefit you in the long run.

Avoid choosing too many subjects

While it may be tempting to take as many GCSE courses as possible, overloading yourself can lead to burnout. Aim to strike a balance between mandatory and optional subjects that feel manageable.

What if I don’t know what I’ll do in the future?

That’s okay! Choose a broad range of subjects to keep your options open while focusing on the ones most relevant to your strengths.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can students take GCSEs during any year?

Most students take GCSE exams in Year 11, but international students may join programmes depending on their age and prior education.

2. Are GCSEs recognised globally?

Yes, GCSEs are widely accepted and respected around the world. They are often equated to equivalent secondary school qualifications in other countries.

There is also the IGCSE qualification. It stands for International General Certificate of Secondary Education. It offers the same level of education as a traditional GCSE, but without a UK-centric curriculum or context. The IGSCE was intended to increase the relevance of the GCSE qualification for an international audience and was first conceived in 1988, just two years after GCSEs were first introduced.

Read more about GCSE v IGCSE

3. Can I retake GCSEs if I don’t pass?

Yes. Schools and learning centres provide opportunities to resit specific exams, particularly in core subjects such as Maths and English.

Start our GCSE journey today

At Kings, we offer GCSE programmes at our schools in Brighton, Bournemouth, London and Oxford.

You can choose from an accelerated 1-year programme at all our locations, or follow a standard GCSE programme of 4 – 6 terms (2 years) in Bournemouth. An Extended GCSE course in also available in Bournemouth.

All students at Kings benefit from:

  • Expert teaching from subject specialists
  • Specialist facilities and excellent resources
  • Personalised support and learning

For more information on GCSE courses at Kings, or if you have any questions that aren’t answered here, get in touch with us today via our Live Chat or Enquiry form.

Alternatively, contact us at enquiries@kingseducation.com.