How does the GCSE grading system work?

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is a standardized examination taken by students in the UK typically at the age of 16. The grading system for GCSE exams has recently undergone changes, moving from the traditional A*-G grades to a numerical system ranging from 9-1.

Under the new system, a grade 9 is the highest achievable mark, while a grade 1 is the lowest. The government has stated that a grade 4 is considered a ‘standard pass’, which is equivalent to the old grade C. And a grade 5 is considered a ‘strong pass’, equivalent to the old grade B.

Students are still able to see their raw scores as well as their grades, giving them a better understanding of their performance in each subject. The grading system aims to provide a clearer indication of a student’s abilities and achievements, allowing for easier comparison between individuals.

Overall, the GCSE grading system now aims to align more closely with the grading systems used in other countries, making it easier for universities and employers to understand and evaluate a student’s qualifications.