GCSEs mainly involve studying the theory of a subject combined with some investigative work.
They are usually studied full-time at school or college, taking two years to complete. Short courses are also available.
GCSEs are subject-specific qualifications and are available in over 40 subjects ranging from Applied Business to Urdu.
GCSEs are graded A* to G, although some papers are tiered according to ability and so don’t target the full grade range
Many courses at university or college will require you to take GCSEs in certain subjects. If you have a particular aim in mind you should check the requirements for that course and take the appropriate subjects. If you are unsure what subjects you need, a Youth Support Worker can help you decide
Getting GCSEs can provide you with a variety of options, for example, work, further study or an apprenticeship
If you get five GCSEs at grades A* to C you can choose from a range of options for further study. For example, you could choose a level 3 qualification such as an AS/A level, Applied GCE, BTEC National, NVQ, a BTEC Apprenticeship or a mixture of these qualifications.
If you get fewer than five GCSEs at grades A* to C you would be likely to choose to study a level 1 or 2 qualification, such as BTEC First, NVQ, BTEC Apprenticeship, or a mixture of these
Further Help and Support
BBC Bitesize - great revision resources for revising for your GCSEs
The Student Room - Information and articles on study, careers and exams
