GCSEs (General Certificates of Secondary Education) are a crucial qualification for students in the United Kingdom. While they serve a similar purpose across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, there are some key differences in how they are graded. Additionally, Scotland has its own distinct qualifications system.
GCSE Results Day
Students in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will receive their GCSE results on the same day, which is Thursday, 21 August 2025.
GCSE Grading in England
In England, GCSEs are graded using a numerical system from 9 to 1, where 9 is the highest grade. This system was introduced as part of a curriculum overhaul in 2014, replacing the previous A* to G letter grading system. The rollout of the 9-1 system began in 2017 with English language, English literature, and mathematics, and by 2020, all GCSE subjects were graded numerically.
9-1 Grading Scale:
The highest grade is 9.
The lowest grade is 1.
U represents "ungraded."
It's important to note that the 9-1 scale is not directly equivalent to the old A* to G scale. However, there are some key alignment points:
The bottom of grade 7 aligns with the bottom of grade A.
The bottom of grade 4 aligns with the bottom of grade C.
The bottom of grade 1 aligns with the bottom of grade G.
The top grades of A* and A in the letter system are now represented by three number grades: 9, 8, and 7.
Why Were GCSE Grades Changed in England?
The numerical grading system was introduced as part of a curriculum reform aimed at making GCSEs more challenging and less reliant on coursework. The government argued that the new scale would:
More clearly differentiate the achievements of high-attaining students.
Make it easier for employers to distinguish between students who had taken the new, more challenging GCSEs and those who had taken the older, reformed ones.
What is a "Pass" in GCSEs in England?
In England, a grade 4 is considered a "standard pass," while a grade 5 is a "strong pass." Many sixth forms and colleges require students to achieve at least a grade 5 or 6 in certain subjects as a condition of entry for further study. School league tables are also based on the percentage of pupils achieving a 5 or above in English and maths GCSEs. Students who receive a grade 3 or below in maths or English language are typically required to resit those exams.
How are Grade Boundaries Decided?
Grade boundaries, which indicate the minimum number of marks needed to achieve a particular grade, are determined by examiners each year. Exam boards publish these grade boundaries on results day.
GCSE Grading in Northern Ireland
GCSE grading in Northern Ireland has also undergone changes. The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations & Assessment (CCEA) has introduced a nine-category grade scale, ranging from A* to G, which includes a C* grade. However, students may also receive results with the 9-1 grading scale if they have taken exams set by English exam boards.
GCSE Grading in Wales
In Wales, the government has retained the traditional letter-based grading structure, from A* to G. While there have been some revisions to GCSE courses, particularly in English language, Welsh language, and mathematics, the grading system remains largely unchanged.
GCSEs in Scotland
It's important to note that Scotland has a separate qualifications system from the rest of the UK. Instead of GCSEs, students in Scotland take National Qualifications, with National 5s being broadly equivalent to GCSEs. Results day in Scotland is also different, taking place on Tuesday, 5 August.