GCSE Maths Exams

How many papers are there?

GCSE maths has 3 papers and each of them are 90 minutes long. Paper 1 is non calculator but Papers 2 & 3 allow students to use a calculator.

What topics does GCSE maths cover?

GCSE maths covers 6 main topics: Number, algebra, proportion, geometry, probability and statistics. Each set of three papers is either Foundation level or Higher level. At Foundation level, students can achieve grades 1 to 5, and on Higher level papers, students can achieve grades 5 to 9. Grade 1 is the lowest, and grade 9 is the highest grade. 4 is considered a pass, while 5 is a strong pass.

When are exams held?

GCSE maths exams are held between May and June in the summer and again in November for students to retake at school in the sixth form or at College.

Recent dates were Wednesday 6th November 2024, Friday 8th November 2024 & Monday 11th November 2024 and results day on 9th January 2025.

Summer 2025 dates are Thursday 15th May, Wednesday 4th June & Wednesday 11th June with results day on Thursday 21st August 2025.

Where can students take exams?

You will need to sit them at an approved exam centre, which is usually your school or College. Independent students are allowed to sit exams at some exam centres, you can search for an exam centre offering this service here.

If you or your children are sitting GCSE maths, take a look at my top tips for exams!